The Government Relations and Member Engagement Specialist provides integrated support for the Association’s legislative, policy, and communications efforts. This position performs a combination of junior-level lobbying, advocacy-focused communications and member engagement, and administrative support for the Government Relations and Communications (GRC) Department.
The Specialist maintains a small legislative policy portfolio; supports the legislative work of other team members; conducts member engagement and communicates key advocacy messages to members through written, verbal, and multimedia channels. Responsibilities include engaging with elected officials, public agencies, and staff; legislative research and tracking; assisting with testimony and legislative materials; producing calls to action and member updates via a variety of channels; and supporting departmental scheduling, logistics, and project coordination.
Works under the supervision of and reports to the Director of Government Relations and Communications. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. Employees in this position will be required to follow any other instructions and perform any other duties requested by their supervisor. Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director or the Deputy Executive Director.
Salary Range:
Commensurate with experience and background, with a salary range of $89,306 – $108,449
Employee Benefits:
Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. OSBA also participates in Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and pays the employee’s contribution. This is a represented position.
Work Location:
OSBA offices are located in Salem, Oregon. Hybrid work options are available.
Essential Job Functions
• Monitors legislative and administrative developments in assigned issue areas.
• Analyzes legislation for impacts on public schools, members, and the Association.
• Drafts written and oral testimony, talking points, briefs, and one-pagers.
• Represents the Association before committees and agencies as assigned.
• Conducts policy research and supports development of OSBA advocacy positions.
• Maintains effective relationships with legislators, staff, and partner organizations.
• Supports member engagement and advocacy.
• Produces member-facing communications on legislative and policy developments.
• Drafts calls to action, alerts, and rapid updates.
• Assists with use of multiple channels for updates such as social media content and audio/video options.
• Collaborates on advocacy collateral, presentations, and trainings.
• Supports development of advocacy content for the website.
• Supplements general communications member engagement, as directed.
• Provides staff support to OSBA committees and caucuses, as directed.
• Assists with coordination of meetings, workshops, and events.
Minimum Job Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, communications, or four years of related field experience, and three years’ experience in a legislative, policy, or advocacy role; or seven years’ equivalent combination of experience.
• Experience or training in Oregon’s legislative or policy processes; focus on Oregon public education or local government preferred.
• Experience with member or constituent engagement; campaign or community organizing experience preferred.
• Ability to interpret and analyze legislation and explain impacts to a public audience.
• Strong writing skills for policy summaries, communications, and advocacy materials.
• Ability to speak clearly and persuasively.
• Ability to synthesize complex information and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with digital communication platforms and social media.
• Proficiency in English language usage and grammar.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work extended hours during legislative sessions.
• Willingness to travel statewide and work evenings/weekends, as needed.
Physical Qualifications
This position involves primarily sedentary work in an office and virtual environment. It requires the ability to communicate clearly, operate standard office technology, and occasionally move within the office or attend off-site meetings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to support individuals with disabilities in performing essential functions.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Reasonable accommodations for the application and interview process will be provided upon request and as required in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Applicants with disabilities may contact OSBA at 503-588-2800 for additional information or assistance. Applicants with speech or hearing impairments may contact OSBA for assistance through the Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service by dialing 1-800-735-2900.
Closing Date: First Review May 1, 2026.
Commence Work: To be determined
