Policy Specialist

The Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence envisions a world where every one of us, in every zip code, lives free from the threat of gun violence. We bring together impacted communities, advocates, public health experts, and policy-makers to prevent gun violence in all its forms. We are seeking a passionate Policy Specialist to join our team and build communal power that will drive policy-making and support violence prevention initiatives in Massachusetts.

The Policy Specialist will be responsible for co-creating and implementing the policy priorities of the Coalition, including conducting research to support policy initiatives. Additionally, the Policy Specialist will coordinate volunteers and allies to advocate for our policy initiatives, both at the State House and throughout the Commonwealth.

Responsibilities:

• Co-create and implement the Coalition's policy platform
• In conjunction with our Communications Specialist, create materials such as fact sheets, impact statements, and materials for volunteers
• Prepare written and oral testimony for legislative hearings, as well as other documents for legislators and other state leaders
• Conduct all research related to policy initiatives, compile research on gun violence related policy on a local and federal level
• Organize and train volunteers who are working to support our policy platform
• Represent the Coalition at events and other community initiatives
• Support trainings and other educational events that will build skills and educate youth and community members on gun violence, effective advocacy, etc
• Supporting the overall functioning of the Coalition

What we are looking for in a candidate:

• Passion for the work of violence prevention
• Previous policy/legislative organizing experience preferred
• Commitment to trauma-informed practices and community-based violence prevention that is based on a model of public health and racial justice
• Creativity, flexibility, and commitment to teamwork and shared leadership
• Willingness to jump into all aspects of Coalition functioning, including events and communications, recognizing that as a member of a small non-profit, we are all called on to serve in many roles
• Demonstrated ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds, especially ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Ability to work independently with a high level of personal organization and self-direction
• The ability to work evenings and weekends as needed, with flex time to maintain a 40-hour work week

This is a full-time, exempt position that will report to the CEO. The Policy Specialist will be joining a small, tight-knit team that values collaboration and prioritizes a healthy work culture.

We have a hybrid work environment, with staff coming into our Boston-based office roughly twice a week. The Policy Specialist will be expected to travel around the state as needed for events and initiatives.

Individuals from communities impacted by gun violence are strongly encouraged to apply. Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs if they are not a perfect fit for every criterion. If you feel that this position may be right for you, we encourage you to apply regardless.

Salary and benefits:

The salary range for most candidates is $50,000 - $55,000, depending on experience. Benefits include a stipend for health and dental coverage, paid vacation, holidays, sick days, and support for remote work set-up. We offer ongoing training opportunities, in a fast-paced, dynamic, supportive, and collaborative setting.

The Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and members of other historically disenfranchised groups are especially welcome and encouraged to apply.