Job Posting – Policy Associate at Immigrant Defense Advocates (IDA), fiscally sponsored by Social Good Fund

Policy Associate
Immigrant Defense Advocates (IDA), fiscally sponsored by Social Good Fund
Sacramento, CA
Exempt, Full-Time, Regular Position

Organizational Background

Immigrant Defense Advocates (IDA) is dedicated to ending policies that detain, dehumanize, and destroy immigrant communities. IDA was established in response to aggressive immigration enforcement, restrictive legislation, and the systemic separation of families. We work collaboratively with immigrant communities to develop comprehensive strategies that integrate community organizing, legal advocacy, and policy reform. Our focus is on empowerment rather than reactive measures, aiming to create lasting change through strategic advocacy and coalition-building.

Position Summary

The Policy Associate will play a key role in IDA’s policy and budget advocacy efforts, particularly at the state level. This position will focus on tracking and analyzing legislative and budgetary developments, supporting policy campaigns, and working with coalition partners to advance immigrant justice. The ideal candidate will have experience in policy advocacy and legislative processes, with a preference for candidates with backgrounds in immigration policy. While the position is flexible in terms of experience, some legislative experience is required.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and execution of IDA’s policy and budget advocacy strategies.
• Monitor and analyze state and federal legislation, budget proposals, and administrative policies affecting immigrant communities.
• Draft policy briefs, fact sheets, and advocacy materials to support IDA’s legislative and budget priorities.
• Work closely with the IDA team and coalition partners to develop and implement strategic campaigns.
• Assist in coordinating legislative meetings, advocacy days, and coalition activities.
• Engage with policymakers, legislative staff, and other stakeholders to advance IDA’s policy priorities.
• Provide research and analysis to support the organization’s advocacy efforts.
• Assist in rapid response efforts to emerging policy developments.
• Participate in IDA’s public education efforts, including presentations, community forums, and media outreach.
• Support grant writing and reporting related to policy initiatives.

Qualifications

• Commitment to immigrant rights and social justice, with an understanding of the challenges facing immigrant communities.
• Legislative experience required, preferably in a policy advocacy role.
• Experience in immigration policy, law, or advocacy is strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required; a graduate degree in public policy, law, or a related field is a plus.
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
• Experience working in coalition spaces and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate complex policy issues in an accessible and compelling manner.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with community organizing or grassroots advocacy is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $75,000 – $100,000
• Full health and dental benefits.
• Generous vacation time, including paid holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Professional development opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to hamid[@]imadvocates.org with the subject line: Policy Associate Application – [Your Name]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

IDA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from people of color, immigrants, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experiences related to our mission.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All individuals are entitled to equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, genetic information, medical condition, veteran status, or any other class protected under federal, state, or local laws.

As an equal opportunity employer, we strongly encourage applications from individuals with varied identities and backgrounds, including women, people with disabilities, immigrants, LGBTQIA people, BIPOC people and people who come from low income or working class backgrounds.

Join us in the fight for immigrant justice!