Organization: The Justice Coalition Action (TJCA)
Job Description: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
Position Title: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
Location: Hybrid - Office West suburbs 2-3 Days per week. Also occasional travel to Springfield
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Advisory Board
About TJCA TJCA is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to building the political power of the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities across Illinois. We engage, educate, and mobilize community voters; train emerging leaders; and champion policy priorities that enhance the well-being and representation of Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities. Our mission is to foster a more equitable and inclusive democratic society where the rights and voices of Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims are acknowledged and respected.
TJCA is also a founding member of the Illinois Coalition for Human Rights (ICHR) along with Jewish Voices for Peace Chicago and American Muslims for Palestine Chicago.
Position Summary The Policy and Advocacy Coordinator will play a crucial role in advancing TJCA’s policy agenda at the local, state, and national levels. This position involves monitoring legislative developments, coordinating advocacy efforts, building relationships with policymakers, and mobilizing community members to engage in policy advocacy. The ideal candidate is passionate about civil rights, social justice, and empowering the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities through political engagement. The ideal candidate has a strong relationship with local community leaders and community members.
Key Responsibilities
Policy Monitoring and Analysis
Legislative Tracking:
Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal legislation relevant to TJCA’s mission and policy priorities.
Provide timely updates and briefings to staff, advisory boards, and stakeholders.
Maintain the CRM system to ensure that all legislative activities and legislature interactions are captured
Policy Research:
Conduct in-depth research on policy issues affecting the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities.
Develop policy briefs, fact sheets, and position papers to inform advocacy strategies.
Advocacy and Outreach
Advocacy Campaigns:
Develop and implement advocacy strategies and campaigns to advance policy goals.
Coordinate lobby days, meetings with elected officials, and testimony at public hearings.
Coalition Building and Management:
Coalition Management of ICHR working closely with our external lobbyist
Identify, establish and maintain relationships with partner organizations, coalitions, and advocacy groups.
Represent TJCA in coalition meetings and collaborative initiatives.
Community Mobilization:
Engage and mobilize community members to participate in advocacy efforts.
Organize workshops, webinars, and training sessions on policy issues and advocacy skills.
Identify applicable community based activities, determine the appropriate level of participation by TJCA and/or ICHR and execute on the proposed involvement
Electoral Process
State Level Candidate Endorsement:
Create questionnaire using online platform (eg Jotform)
Manage candidate endorsement process from coordination of initial interview through to final endorsements
Provide relevant staff and board members briefing documents prior to candidate interviews and meetings
Ensure all appropriate follow-ups are completed in a timely manner
Engage with ally organizations on a regular basis ahead of endorsements and through election day, including proactive ideation for potential partnerships for
Get Out the Vote:
Organize and facilitate mail in ballot sign ups, ballot parties, and ballot harvesting
Support increasing convenient voting sites within areas with high membership base
Build intern and volunteer network
Organize trainings for volunteers for door knocking and general GOTV efforts
Coordinate all efforts for volunteers to GOTV during election time (including creation of voter guide, voter guide prints and circulation, etc)
Communications and Public Relations
Content Creation:
Collaborate with the communications team to produce policy-related content for newsletters, social media, and press releases.
Craft compelling messages that resonate with diverse audiences and encourage action.
Media Engagement:
Serve as a spokesperson on policy issues when appropriate.
Assist in preparing talking points and briefing materials for media appearances.
Administrative and Organizational Support
Reporting:
Prepare regular reports on advocacy activities, outcomes, and impact for internal and external stakeholders.
Maintain accurate records of meetings, contacts, and legislative developments.
Strategic Planning:
Contribute to the development of TJCA’s strategic plan and policy agenda.
Fundraising:
Contribute to the development and execution of TJCA’s fundraising plan
Identify emerging issues and opportunities for advocacy.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in policy advocacy, legislative affairs, or a related area, preferably within an aligned nonprofit or advocacy organization.
Knowledge and Skills
Understanding of Legislative Processes: Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal legislative processes and advocacy strategies.
Policy Analysis: Ability to analyze complex policy issues and communicate them effectively - both written and verbally - to various audiences.
Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Relationship Building: Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and coalition partners.
Personal Attributes
Commitment to Mission: Passionate about TJCA’s mission and values, with a strong commitment to civil rights and social justice.
Cultural Competence: Understanding of issues affecting the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities, with sensitivity to cultural and religious diversity.
Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment as well as independently.
Flexibility: Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed and to travel within the state or nationally if required.
Benefits
• Full time role, competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
Application Process
To apply, please submit the following:
Resume/CV
List of 3 references
Cover Letter outlining your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and qualifications.
Writing Sample (e.g., policy brief, advocacy letter, or related work)
Email applications to: info@thejusticecoalition.org
Subject Line: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Application – [Your Name]
Application Deadline: Actively seeking, will keep open until filled
Dec 16, 2025
Full time
Organization: The Justice Coalition Action (TJCA)
Job Description: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
Position Title: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
Location: Hybrid - Office West suburbs 2-3 Days per week. Also occasional travel to Springfield
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Advisory Board
About TJCA TJCA is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to building the political power of the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities across Illinois. We engage, educate, and mobilize community voters; train emerging leaders; and champion policy priorities that enhance the well-being and representation of Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities. Our mission is to foster a more equitable and inclusive democratic society where the rights and voices of Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims are acknowledged and respected.
TJCA is also a founding member of the Illinois Coalition for Human Rights (ICHR) along with Jewish Voices for Peace Chicago and American Muslims for Palestine Chicago.
Position Summary The Policy and Advocacy Coordinator will play a crucial role in advancing TJCA’s policy agenda at the local, state, and national levels. This position involves monitoring legislative developments, coordinating advocacy efforts, building relationships with policymakers, and mobilizing community members to engage in policy advocacy. The ideal candidate is passionate about civil rights, social justice, and empowering the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities through political engagement. The ideal candidate has a strong relationship with local community leaders and community members.
Key Responsibilities
Policy Monitoring and Analysis
Legislative Tracking:
Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal legislation relevant to TJCA’s mission and policy priorities.
Provide timely updates and briefings to staff, advisory boards, and stakeholders.
Maintain the CRM system to ensure that all legislative activities and legislature interactions are captured
Policy Research:
Conduct in-depth research on policy issues affecting the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities.
Develop policy briefs, fact sheets, and position papers to inform advocacy strategies.
Advocacy and Outreach
Advocacy Campaigns:
Develop and implement advocacy strategies and campaigns to advance policy goals.
Coordinate lobby days, meetings with elected officials, and testimony at public hearings.
Coalition Building and Management:
Coalition Management of ICHR working closely with our external lobbyist
Identify, establish and maintain relationships with partner organizations, coalitions, and advocacy groups.
Represent TJCA in coalition meetings and collaborative initiatives.
Community Mobilization:
Engage and mobilize community members to participate in advocacy efforts.
Organize workshops, webinars, and training sessions on policy issues and advocacy skills.
Identify applicable community based activities, determine the appropriate level of participation by TJCA and/or ICHR and execute on the proposed involvement
Electoral Process
State Level Candidate Endorsement:
Create questionnaire using online platform (eg Jotform)
Manage candidate endorsement process from coordination of initial interview through to final endorsements
Provide relevant staff and board members briefing documents prior to candidate interviews and meetings
Ensure all appropriate follow-ups are completed in a timely manner
Engage with ally organizations on a regular basis ahead of endorsements and through election day, including proactive ideation for potential partnerships for
Get Out the Vote:
Organize and facilitate mail in ballot sign ups, ballot parties, and ballot harvesting
Support increasing convenient voting sites within areas with high membership base
Build intern and volunteer network
Organize trainings for volunteers for door knocking and general GOTV efforts
Coordinate all efforts for volunteers to GOTV during election time (including creation of voter guide, voter guide prints and circulation, etc)
Communications and Public Relations
Content Creation:
Collaborate with the communications team to produce policy-related content for newsletters, social media, and press releases.
Craft compelling messages that resonate with diverse audiences and encourage action.
Media Engagement:
Serve as a spokesperson on policy issues when appropriate.
Assist in preparing talking points and briefing materials for media appearances.
Administrative and Organizational Support
Reporting:
Prepare regular reports on advocacy activities, outcomes, and impact for internal and external stakeholders.
Maintain accurate records of meetings, contacts, and legislative developments.
Strategic Planning:
Contribute to the development of TJCA’s strategic plan and policy agenda.
Fundraising:
Contribute to the development and execution of TJCA’s fundraising plan
Identify emerging issues and opportunities for advocacy.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in policy advocacy, legislative affairs, or a related area, preferably within an aligned nonprofit or advocacy organization.
Knowledge and Skills
Understanding of Legislative Processes: Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal legislative processes and advocacy strategies.
Policy Analysis: Ability to analyze complex policy issues and communicate them effectively - both written and verbally - to various audiences.
Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Relationship Building: Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and coalition partners.
Personal Attributes
Commitment to Mission: Passionate about TJCA’s mission and values, with a strong commitment to civil rights and social justice.
Cultural Competence: Understanding of issues affecting the Palestinian, Arab and Muslim communities, with sensitivity to cultural and religious diversity.
Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment as well as independently.
Flexibility: Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed and to travel within the state or nationally if required.
Benefits
• Full time role, competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
Application Process
To apply, please submit the following:
Resume/CV
List of 3 references
Cover Letter outlining your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and qualifications.
Writing Sample (e.g., policy brief, advocacy letter, or related work)
Email applications to: info@thejusticecoalition.org
Subject Line: Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Application – [Your Name]
Application Deadline: Actively seeking, will keep open until filled
Summary: To support the Public Affairs team and the communications goals of the association, especially through public and media relations, content creation and internal and external newsletter communications.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned):
I. Media Relations:
Draft and distribute materials such as press releases and statements to staff, media and other stakeholders as directed.
Draft and distribute internal and external newsletters. Included, but not limited to:
Mobile Minute (daily)
Public Affairs Update for member companies (biweekly)
Manage relationship with news clips service, ensuring stakeholders are receiving complete daily updates of relevant articles, including headlines in policy, member, trade and industry.
Monitor news publications to identify other relevant breaking news or coverage on key policy areas, including 5G, wireless, spectrum and infrastructure. Compile supplemental coverage reports as necessary.
Monitor assigned hearings, meetings and policy events to support the association’s strategic messaging through media relations and social media coverage.
Intake media inquiries by phone and email and route internally. Document and track inquiries through the response process.
Post statements, press releases and filings to CTIA website as requested and make general updates to website pages and blogs.
Provide editorial assistance (including proofreading, fact-finding, production of templates, etc.) for all CTIA and subsidiary organizations, including digital content (AP Style).
Compile and maintain email distribution lists, including reporters, CTIA staff, consultants and external parties.
Research and submit for awards and honors that promote the work done by the association and/or its senior team.
II. Association Support:
Attend interdepartmental meetings as necessary.
Participate in coalition calls and meetings as necessary.
III. Other Clerical & Administrative Support:
Assist with phones and scheduling.
Copying, typing, filing, media database entry and management.
Assist with scheduling, information distribution, requests and meetings with CTIA members.
Collect and distribute information as requested and as appropriate about, to and for CTIA.
Supervisory responsibilities: None
Competency:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Project Management – Coordinates projects, ensuring successful completion.
Customer Service – Responds to requests for service and assistance. Meets commitments.
Interpersonal Skills – Works well as an individual or part of a group. Contributes to building a positive team spirit.
Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively. Proofreads work for spelling and grammar; able to read and interpret written information.
Judgment – Exhibits sound and accurate judgment. Maintains confidentiality.
Planning/Organizing – Prioritizes shot and long-term work activities. Uses time efficiently.
Professionalism – Approaches others in a tactful manner. Reacts well under pressure. Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and meetings on time and prepared.
Dependability - Follows instructions and responds to management direction.
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge:
Strong interest in technology/telecommunications, U.S. government and/or policy or journalism is helpful.
Computer skills: Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft office (Word, Excel, Outlook) required. Familiarity with CMS (specifically Wordpress) and social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook) preferred. Familiarity with Adobe suite (Photoshop, InDesign, etc.) is an advantage.
Education and/or experience: Four-year college degree required. Prior experience (inclusive of internships) with public/media relations, advocacy/government relations, membership or trade associations helpful.
Language skills: Candidates should be detail-oriented with strong knowledge of grammar and punctuation. Strong written and verbal communications skills are required. Proficiency in AP Style preferred.
Physical demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. This position may require overtime. Candidate must be flexible to work overtime if needed.
This list describes general job duties and responsibilities. It is not a complete list of duties. Incumbents may be required to perform additional tasks related to these duties.
CTIA does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, color, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, marital status, personal appearance, veteran status, political affiliation, matriculation, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.
Sep 14, 2022
Full time
Summary: To support the Public Affairs team and the communications goals of the association, especially through public and media relations, content creation and internal and external newsletter communications.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned):
I. Media Relations:
Draft and distribute materials such as press releases and statements to staff, media and other stakeholders as directed.
Draft and distribute internal and external newsletters. Included, but not limited to:
Mobile Minute (daily)
Public Affairs Update for member companies (biweekly)
Manage relationship with news clips service, ensuring stakeholders are receiving complete daily updates of relevant articles, including headlines in policy, member, trade and industry.
Monitor news publications to identify other relevant breaking news or coverage on key policy areas, including 5G, wireless, spectrum and infrastructure. Compile supplemental coverage reports as necessary.
Monitor assigned hearings, meetings and policy events to support the association’s strategic messaging through media relations and social media coverage.
Intake media inquiries by phone and email and route internally. Document and track inquiries through the response process.
Post statements, press releases and filings to CTIA website as requested and make general updates to website pages and blogs.
Provide editorial assistance (including proofreading, fact-finding, production of templates, etc.) for all CTIA and subsidiary organizations, including digital content (AP Style).
Compile and maintain email distribution lists, including reporters, CTIA staff, consultants and external parties.
Research and submit for awards and honors that promote the work done by the association and/or its senior team.
II. Association Support:
Attend interdepartmental meetings as necessary.
Participate in coalition calls and meetings as necessary.
III. Other Clerical & Administrative Support:
Assist with phones and scheduling.
Copying, typing, filing, media database entry and management.
Assist with scheduling, information distribution, requests and meetings with CTIA members.
Collect and distribute information as requested and as appropriate about, to and for CTIA.
Supervisory responsibilities: None
Competency:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Project Management – Coordinates projects, ensuring successful completion.
Customer Service – Responds to requests for service and assistance. Meets commitments.
Interpersonal Skills – Works well as an individual or part of a group. Contributes to building a positive team spirit.
Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively. Proofreads work for spelling and grammar; able to read and interpret written information.
Judgment – Exhibits sound and accurate judgment. Maintains confidentiality.
Planning/Organizing – Prioritizes shot and long-term work activities. Uses time efficiently.
Professionalism – Approaches others in a tactful manner. Reacts well under pressure. Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and meetings on time and prepared.
Dependability - Follows instructions and responds to management direction.
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge:
Strong interest in technology/telecommunications, U.S. government and/or policy or journalism is helpful.
Computer skills: Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft office (Word, Excel, Outlook) required. Familiarity with CMS (specifically Wordpress) and social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook) preferred. Familiarity with Adobe suite (Photoshop, InDesign, etc.) is an advantage.
Education and/or experience: Four-year college degree required. Prior experience (inclusive of internships) with public/media relations, advocacy/government relations, membership or trade associations helpful.
Language skills: Candidates should be detail-oriented with strong knowledge of grammar and punctuation. Strong written and verbal communications skills are required. Proficiency in AP Style preferred.
Physical demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. This position may require overtime. Candidate must be flexible to work overtime if needed.
This list describes general job duties and responsibilities. It is not a complete list of duties. Incumbents may be required to perform additional tasks related to these duties.
CTIA does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, color, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, marital status, personal appearance, veteran status, political affiliation, matriculation, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.
