Program Associate, Sentencing Reform

New Yorkfull timeOn Site

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entry

$77k–$80k

H1B: no

Verainstituteofjustice The Program Associate supports the Sentencing Reform Initiative by driving research, coalition building, and legislative support in select states. The role involves coordinating advocacy meetings, monitoring legislation, and developing materials for stakeholders and leadership.

Responsibilities

Project Support and Coordination
Support the Program Manager and Director in developing strategy, tactics, and implementation across sites.
Monitor targeted sentencing reform legislation across states.
Coordinate logistics, scheduling, and follow-up for advocacy meetings, coalition calls, and legislative sessions.
Plan and help staff convenings, briefings, roundtables, and trainings for coalition partners and stakeholders
Collaborate with Vera's Advocacy and Partnerships, Communications, and Research teams to help move project strategy forward.
Track progress against project targets and milestones, flagging issues to the Program Manager as they arise.
Advocacy, Materials Development, and Research Support
Conduct research and draft background materials, talking points, one-pagers, and presentations on specific bills.
Help plan and facilitate coalition meetings, advocacy days and workgroup discussions.
Build and maintain relationships with partners in government, non-profit, policy, and advocacy spaces.
Leadership, Funder, and Partner Materials

Qualification

Strong research skillsStrong writing skillsStrong organizational skillsEvent/convening planning experienceKnowledgeProficient with Microsoft Office SuiteStrong research and writing skillsExcellent strategic

Required

Bachelor's degree and three plus years of relevant experience
Applicable work or life experience may be considered in lieu of degree
Strong research skills
Strong writing skills
Strong organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines

Preferred

Coursework or a graduate degree in progress in public policy, social work, political science, criminal justice, or a related field; or equivalent work experience; or relevant work, educational background, or lived experience as a person directly impacted by the criminal legal system.
Experience or demonstrated interest in coalition work involving people impacted by the criminal legal system and/or crime survivors.
Experience or demonstrated interest in legislative advocacy campaigns.
Event/convening planning experience, including logistics, agenda-setting, and materials, in both virtual and in-person settings.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities you'll bring:
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong research and writing skills.
Excellent strategic, problem-solving, and analytic skills.