Government Affairs Associate

ABOUT US: Representing more than 26,000 members, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) is the largest grassroots agricultural organization in the state, serving producers and growers across every size and commodity. Our mission is to protect, promote, and strengthen agriculture for future generations by developing member-driven policy positions and advocating for those interests at the local, state, and national levels of government.

POSITION OBJECTIVE: Implement the public policy and regulatory programs in accordance with the policies established by the voting delegates and as interpreted by the PFB Board of Directors. Advocate on behalf of Farm Bureau policies.

REPORTS TO: Director, Government Affairs

LOCATION: Primarily based in the Camp Hill office, with the potential for up to one telework day a week, subject to Director approval. Frequent travel (approximately 40%) is required throughout Pennsylvania and occasionally to Washington, D.C., including potential overnight stays, to attend legislative meetings, organizational events, and seminars.

SALARY: A competitive compensation package will be negotiated based on applicant’s experience. Salary expectations should be addressed in applicant’s cover letter.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Represent PFB and advocate the organization’s policy positions to state and federal elected officials, the media, and other private sector organizations. Present Farm Bureau views in speeches before appropriate groups, public forums, and PFB meetings.
• In collaboration with other Government Affairs staff, develop and implement long- and short-term action plans that lead to the accomplishment of Farm Bureau’s policies and other issues as assigned.
• Legislative portfolio will include a wide range of topics as determined by the Director at the state and federal levels.
• Establish and leverage strategic partnerships with key legislative and governmental staff at the state and federal levels to advance PFB’s agenda.
• Assume leadership in key private sector and agricultural coalitions, strategically leveraging external support to achieve PFB’s policy objectives.
• Draft testimony, statements and letters of support for legislation, memoranda for internal distribution within Farm Bureau, public-facing policy briefs and detailed regulatory comments on rulemakings.
• Serve as a resource person for AFBF Communications team in the development and dissemination of advocacy materials.
• Organize and coordinate meetings and conferences in appropriate subject areas as needed and serve on special committees and coalitions.
• Conduct research on PFB policy priorities and aid in the organization of PFB’s policy development process.
• Assist PFB’s Dairy & Farm Policy State Committee.
• Assist PFB’s Winery & Wine Grape Growers State Committee.

EDUCATION REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Minimum two years of public policy experience
• Strong operational understanding of state and federal government
• Knowledge or background in agricultural production 

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE/TRAINING/SKILLS:

• Strong understanding of agricultural issues and processes, including:
  • Appropriations
  • Broadband and Technology
  • Dairy
  • Education
  • Foreign Investments
  • Healthcare
  • Taxes
  • Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries
• Understanding of the Farm Bureau organization, including its purpose, structure, and operation
• Trade association experience desired

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid PA Driver’s License
• Ability to lift/carry up to 30 lbs.
• Working during non-traditional office hours.

TO APPLY: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and 2 – 3 references.  

Note:  This job description is intended to describe the major functions and characteristics of this job. It is not intended to describe all functions or responsibilities which may be assigned to the incumbent employee. It is always within the employer’s right to add to, delete from, or further modify this job description at any time. This document is not to be construed as an employment contract of any type. EOE.