Would friends and strangers describe you as an extrovert? Are you fluent with words and highly persuasive if you are passionate about something? Do you thrive in an organization that values your ability to build relationships and in a fast-paced environment? Would you describe yourself as fairly organized and a big picture thinker?

If so, this might be the job for you:

OpenSky Policy Institute seeks to hire a Policy and Outreach Coordinator to help coordinate OpenSky’s policy and outreach work. The successful candidate’s primary responsibilities will be to help monitor legislation, write testimony, coordinate meetings and build relationships with policy makers, individuals and organizations throughout the state in order to advance our work.

About OpenSky Policy Institute

Our Mission: To improve opportunities for every Nebraskan by providing impartial and precise research, analysis, education and leadership.

We are a nonprofit and nonpartisan think tank that provides independent research and analysis of state fiscal and economic policy issues in Nebraska. By examining the most pressing budget and policy issues and making them accessible and more understandable, we aim to broaden participation in state policy debates and help foster outcomes that improve opportunities for all Nebraskans. At OpenSky, we embrace an “all hands on deck” work environment where collaboration is not just encouraged but is critical to our success.

How This Position Advances the Organization’s Work

This is a new position that will help OpenSky engage more directly with individuals, organizations and the legislature to improve opportunities for all Nebraskans. The Policy and Outreach Coordinator will be a valued member of OpenSky’s team with responsibility to help deepen relationships in the community and engage with policy makers. OpenSky is committed to advancing equity and inclusion and seeks to create an environment and culture that embraces employee differences.

Responsibilities and Qualifications

The responsibilities of this position include monitoring legislation, coordinating with the communications and policy teams to ensure OpenSky’s testimony and analysis is understandable and accessible, coordinating meetings and cultivating new relationships with stakeholder groups and policymakers.

Qualifications for the position include:

• Outstanding written and verbal communications skills, including a demonstrated ability to communicate complex topics to non-expert audiences.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to coordinate multiple issues at the same time.
• Ability to take initiative, problem-solve, and think strategically.
• Self-motivation, ability to work independently, and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Willingness to work as a part of a team and enthusiasm for building relationships with key stakeholders, particularly in communities of color.
• Experience with the legislative process.
• Strong commitment to OpenSky’s mission.
• At least two years of experience in policy and/or outreach.

This position is full-time. The salary range for the position is $40,000 – $55,000 based on experience and includes health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off for vacation, sick leave, holidays, and family leave. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, although applications received by August 5th will receive priority. To apply, send a resume, cover letter, and the names of three references to troberts@openskypolicy.org, please put “Policy and Outreach Coordinator” in the subject line. Or, you may apply by direct mail to the address below. No calls please.

Policy and Outreach Coordinator

OpenSky Policy Institute

1327 H Street, Ste #102

Lincoln, NE 68508

OpenSky Policy Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and welcomes diversity in the workplace and strongly encourages all qualified persons to apply regardless of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, religious or political affiliation, disability, and any other classification considered discriminatory under applicable law.