Policy​/Project Associate

POSITION SUMMARY

Just Cities seeks a compassionate public policy/urban planning research and project associate to:

• Coordinate and execute project activities in support of strategic resource development, grant writing, communications, and other organizational priorities
• Support external community planning projects
• Conduct research, analysis, and writing to support public policy and research reports

We seek a thoughtful, organized, and eager individual who enjoys building strong systems, supporting a team, and learning the fundamentals of policy research, communications, operations, and resource development in service of racial and restorative justice. The Policy/Project Associate will bring strong organizational and writing skills, a willingness to learn, and a genuine commitment to the Just Cities mission, working closely with the leadership team and project staff to help advance the organization's programmatic and operational goals.

• Support the coordination of strategic resource development activities, including tracking deadlines, maintaining calendars, and organizing supporting materials.
• Assist with the planning and execution of communications efforts, including newsletters, website updates, and other external-facing materials.
• Contribute to grant‑writing efforts as part of a larger team, including drafting sections, gathering supporting materials, and assisting with proposal logistics.
• Work with the Director of Finance & Operations to support physical office management and organize other administrative and operations functions.

• Manage administrative activities for community steering committees, as needed, including invoicing for committee members, logistical support for meetings, and coordination of any training.
• Help create and maintain project workplans, track task completion, and follow up with team members to keep priorities moving forward.
• Coordinate meetings with consultants, partners and community groups (i.e., Zoom logistics, note‑taking, and other logistics).
• Support collaborative contracts, including partner reporting, budget tracking, invoicing, and payment requirements.

• Work with Project Directors and Project Managers to support research, analysis, and writing on public policy reports.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research tasks, including data gathering, data analysis, organization, and summary write‑ups.
• Help produce accessible summaries, briefs, and materials that translate research findings for community and government audiences.
• Support the creation of infographics and other data visualization products as needed.

Professional Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a related field, or two years of direct relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• At least 1-2 years of related professional experience in project coordination, research, nonprofit communications/development, or a related area.
• Demonstrated commitment to low‑income communities of color and advancing racial and social justice.
• Strong writing skills with excellent attention to detail in policy, research, and grant writing.
• Demonstrated ability to provide effective coordination work with multiple organizations and individuals. Ability to support multiple concurrent tasks and follow through on deadlines.

• Works well with grassroots community members and leaders, and values their expertise, knowledge, and leadership.
• Enjoys working as part of a team to accomplish common goals.
• Comfortable supporting the work of others while also taking ownership of specific tasks and responsibilities.
• Takes joy in and actively supports colleagues' and partners' success.
• Approaches conflicts and misunderstandings with a healthy, affirming attitude.

• Integrity, credibility, and a commitment to and passion for Just Cities' mission.
• Demonstrates openness to feedback while exercising sound professional judgment.
• Takes initiative, is persistent, and delivers high‑quality results.
• Embraces a growth mindset.
• Able to ask for help and advice when…