California Policy Manager

California Policy Manager

The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) addresses the harms of drug use and drug criminalization through policy solutions, organizing, and public education. We advocate for a holistic approach to drugs that prioritizes health, social supports, and community wellbeing. DPA opposes punitive approaches that destabilize people, block access to care, and drain communities of resources. We believe that the regulation of drugs should be grounded in evidence, health, equity, and human rights. In collaboration with other movements, we change laws, advance justice, and save lives.

DPA has 40 staff across the U.S. an annual operating budget of approximately $12 million, and 200,000 members, activists, and supporters. The organization has a solid track record of success at the local, state, and federal levels and consistent visibility in prominent media and policy circles.

The Policy Manager works with the California State Director in developing and shaping strategy, goals, and communications efforts for the California office. Responsibilities include developing and managing campaigns focused on (but not exclusive to) policy reform related to criminalization of drugs, substance use disorder treatment, overdose prevention, harm reduction, and other health- and addiction-related services, including strategy, partnerships, written materials, and action plans; educating and lobbying elected officials, advocacy organizations, and community leaders; leading advocacy and communications work on their legislative campaigns; speaking publicly and representing DPA in the media; and more. The Policy Manager also works with the larger DPA policy department to contribute to the development of DPA's national policy agenda.

The successful candidate must be a self-starter and a risk taker, with a high degree of confidence and energy. Excellent interpersonal skills and a passion for racial and social justice are essentials for success.

Broad responsibilities include :

• Managing state level legislative campaigns.
• Organizing community groups and advocacy organizations in support of DPA's federal agenda.

Primary responsibilities include :

To fulfill the responsibilities of the role, we are seeking candidates with the following qualifications and characteristics :

This is a full-time, exempt position. The salary range for this position is $80,000-$88,000, depending on experience. Benefits for DPA staff include comprehensive health insurance and coverage (including dental and vision), 403b retirement plan with 10% employer matching contribution after completion of one-year, paid time off including 20 days of vacation, plus national holidays, sick days, organizational closure at the end of December, and year-round early dismissal on Fridays.

Applicants should reside in California (strong preference for candidates residing in Sacramento.) This position will work remotely on an ongoing basis. Some travel is required.

Full-time, remote, and flexible schedule

To apply, please submit the following :

Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. DPA encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, ethnicity, personal appearance, political affiliation, family responsibility, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status and record of arrest or conviction.? Drug Policy Alliance is particularly interested in hiring people who have been adversely affected by the war on drugs.