advocate

Background

The Georgia Public Interest Research Group (Georgia PIRG) is a statewide, multi-issue public interest advocacy organization that works on behalf of Georgia’s citizens to stand up to powerful interests and fight threats to public health, consumer well-being and our democracy. We were founded in 1972 and have more than two thousand members. We employ the time-tested tools of investigative research, media attention, grassroots organizing, advocacy and litigation to deliver consistent, results-oriented public interest activism and to achieve concrete and lasting political change on the state level. We are also part of the federation of state PIRGs, U.S. PIRG, which allows us to have a voice in Washington, D.C., coordinate on regional and national efforts, and share policy and strategy ideas from state to state.

Georgia PIRG is seeking a Public Interest Advocate. The mission of our program is to stand up to powerful special interests on issues to protect public health, stop identity theft, expand public transportation options, fight political corruption, provide safe and affordable prescription drugs, and strengthen voting rights. Consider this—consumers comprise the largest interest group in the economy, affecting and affected by almost every public and private economic decision. If consumers are offered inferior products, if prices are exorbitant, if drugs are unsafe or worthless, or if consumers are unable to make informed choices, then their dollars are wasted, and their health and safety may be threatened.

Job Description

Georgia PIRG's Public Interest Advocate will play the following roles:

•    Political Strategist: Frame the various problems and identify public interest solutions. Develop the strategies and tactics needed to build political support for those solutions and turn practical ideas into the law of the land.

•    Researcher: Investigate and write policy reports and studies documenting consumer problems and the benefits of implementing solutions to these problems.

•    Legislative Drafter: Craft policy options that turn the solution into law.

•    Advocate: Testify at legislative and administrative hearings and lobby members of the Legislature and the state administration.

•    Media Liaison: Organize media events, release reports and publicize problems. Write media releases, provide source material to reporters, meet with editorial boards and reporters.

•    Political Organizer: Coordinate meetings and keep in touch with coalition partners. Work with field staff to generate grassroots support for our agenda.

•    Fundraising: Solicit grants from private foundations and major gifts from supportive members to help build Georgia PIRG's consumer program.

Qualifications

Qualified applicants have a strong commitment to public interest issues, excellent verbal, writing and analytical skills, the ability to debate and speak persuasively, and enthusiasm for the work. Candidates for this position should have three to eight years of relevant professional experience, post college. Relevant experience includes (but is not limited to) working in political, policy, legal, journalistic, or government settings. Advanced degrees, including a JD or masters in related fields, may count toward a candidate's professional experience.

Salary & Benefits

Salary for this position is commensurate with the amount of relevant professional experience that a candidate has. A competitive benefits package includes health care coverage, educational loan assistance, a 401k retirement plan, paid vacation and sick days, and parental leave. Opportunities for advancement, travel, and additional training are available.

Location(s)

Atlanta, GA

Application

To apply, please e-mail your resume and cover letter to careers@pirg.org.