Policy Coordinator

Position:
Policy Coordinator

Reports To:

Director of Government Affairs

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Job Type: Full‑Time

Supervisory Responsibility:
No

Work Location:

In person - Lansing

Effective Date:
January 2026

The Policy Coordinatorisa key position for advancing and supporting the Michigan

AFL-CIO's publicpolicypriorities. The Policy Coordinatorleads tracking and analysis of proposed legislativeactions, determines the potential impact on the organization, and developsappropriate responses. This position monitors legislation, conducts policy research, and develops analysis. The Policy Coordinator is  also responsible for oversight and development of the Municipal Solidarity Index and Legislative Scorecard to advocate for andreinforce Michigan

AFL-CIOpolicy aims at the local and statelevel, respectively. The Policy Coordinator’s work plan will be determined by the Michigan AFL-CIO.

• Assist in the development and execution of a strategic legislative and public policy agenda at the local and state level that supports the organization’s mission
• Draft, edit, and analyze state and local policies, ordinances, laws and regulations
• Track and monitor legislation, committee markups, and votes
• Lead research and analysis on policy issues and regulations to inform policy positions and trends
• Prepare, review, and edit research memos, briefs, reports, projects, and presentations in a variety of formats to engage a diverse range of audiences
• Advocate for the organization’s position on pending legislation in the state legislature and in various local governmental bodies through lobbying and written and verbal testimony
• Advise, prepare and edit policy and advocacy materials, including action alerts, talking points, issue briefs, letters, press statements, opinion editorials, website updates, and legislative and policy reports
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, and with policymakers and influencers in state and local government, in service of our policy agenda
• Manage the development, update and deployment of the Municipal Solidarity Index and the annual Legislative Scorecard
• Recruit and supervise a team of Policy Associates, Fellows, and/or Interns
• Keep abreast of all developments and current issues through continued education and professional growth; attending conferences, workshops, and seminars as appropriate
• Maintain awareness of current issues, emerging trends, and best practices in public policy, labor, and government affairs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strategic Policy Expertise - Deep understanding of legislative processes and public policy analysis to effectively track, evaluate, and advance the Michigan AFL-CIO’s local, state, and federal policy agenda.
• Communication & Advocacy - Strong written and verbal communication skills to draft policy materials, deliver testimony, and translate complex legislative issues into clear, persuasive messaging for diverse audiences.
• Relationship Building & Coalition Management - Ability to cultivate and maintain productive relationships with legislators, labor partners, community stakeholders, and policy influencers to advance shared policy goals.
• Compliance & Governance - Knowledge of lobbying regulations, governance standards, and ethical requirements.
• Adaptability & Political Acumen - Capacity to operate effectively in fast‑paced, high‑pressure political environments, respond to emerging issues, and adjust priorities as legislative and political conditions change.

• A bachelor’s degree in political science, public affairs, public policy, or a closely related field, or a commensurate combination of education and experience.
• 1+ years of experience in public policy, legislative affairs, or a related field, with experience in public service as a plus.
• Familiarity with commitment to the labor movement and an understanding of labor goals.
• Strong time management and organizational skills are required, including a demonstrated ability to independently manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects in high‑pressure situations and under difficult deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential,…