Policy Director

Policy Director

The Office of New York State Senator Robert Jackson is seeking a dedicated and highly motivated individual to join our team as Policy Director. We are committed to serving the people of New York by advancing policies that improve lives, expand opportunities, and strengthen communities.

If you are passionate about government, eager to take on new responsibility, and ready to contribute to high-impact statewide policy work, we encourage you to apply. As Policy Director, you will play an essential role in shaping and advancing the Senator's legislative and budgetary agenda. Reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, and working closely with the Legislative Director, you will provide policy research, analysis, and strategic support that drives our work forward. This Albany-based role, with some flexibility for remote work, offers a unique opportunity to gain access and experience at the highest levels of New York State government.

In this dynamic role, you will :

• Serve as a key policy advisor to the Senator, Chief of Staff, and senior team
• Research and analyze legislation, state budget proposals, and policy issues
• Draft concise and persuasive policy memos, reports, and briefings
• Manage capital and expense budget requests and processes in close consultation with the Chief of Staff
• Coordinate and schedule meetings with stakeholders, ensuring effective engagement and follow-up
• Monitor and evaluate legislative developments, keeping the team informed on opportunities and risks
• Support coalition-building efforts with advocacy groups, unions, agencies, and community partners
• Develop proactive strategies to identify and address emerging issues relevant to the Senator's district and priorities
• Represent the Senator in meetings and hearings, as appropriate
• Communicate complex policy issues clearly and accessible to a wide range of audiences

To move forward, you will have :

Salary range is $65,000 to $73,000, commensurate with education and experience. This position provides a rare opportunity to work directly with senior leadership and the Senator, positioning you for long-term growth in government, advocacy, or policy leadership.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@nysenate.gov. Submissions that do not include both will not be considered. Please keep in mind that we are looking for cover letters that tell us in your own words why you are a great candidate for the job and not something that simply repeats the information in your resume. This recruitment will remain open until filled. Due to the volume of applications, we will not be able to respond to each applicant.

The NYS Senate offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes a health and wellness in the workplace program that you and your family can benefit from :

The New York State Senate is an Equal Opportunity employer that values a diverse and equitable workplace. We do not permit discrimination based on race, age, creed, color, religion, gender / sex, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, national origin, predisposing genetic characteristics, or physical or mental disability, domestic violence victim status, arrest / criminal conviction record, pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity or expression, sexual harassment, immigration status, or hair texture or protective hair styles.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.