Political and Legislative Advocacy Apprentice at AFSCME

September 29, 2025 Albany, NY
Location: Albany, New York, United States (On-site)
Type: Temporary (1-2 Years)
Category: Advocacy & Lobbying

About the Role:

AFSCME’s Political Action Department seeks candidates interested in a 24-month apprenticeship program in progressive political action and legislative advocacy. This program provides training and hands-on experience in coalition building, lobbying, communications, and basic organizing skills on field-based campaigns.

Apprentices will work with AFSCME, its affiliates, other labor unions, and progressive organizations on grassroots campaigns critical to workers and their families. This program is designed for individuals interested in careers with public interest organizations, political parties, advocacy groups, or labor organizations.

The apprenticeship provides exposure to planning, executing, and coordinating political action programs, including email, phone, and earned media campaigns, as well as raising funds for PEOPLE PAC.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with planning, coordination, and execution of AFSCME’s political action program in the assigned state or territory.
  • Implement legislative grassroots action plans including email, phone, and earned media campaigns.
  • Develop and execute campaign plans and strategies in the assigned area.
  • Build and maintain relationships with leadership, elected officials, and key staff.
  • Raise funds from AFSCME members and families for PEOPLE PAC.
  • Train and maintain a network of political activists and PEOPLE contributors.
  • Assess political climate, candidates, and campaigns; prepare reports on potential opportunities and challenges.

Qualifications:

  • Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.
  • Minimum of one year of related work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Knowledge of unions and their political programs.
  • Understanding of the political and legislative process.
  • Familiarity with online voter databases and campaign organizing activities.
  • Strong leadership, motivational, and communication skills.
  • Valid driver’s license and access to an automobile.
  • Flexibility for variable work schedules and temporary assignments.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary Range: $3,900 – $4,000 per month

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to recruiting@afscme.org.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

AFSCME is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or any other classification protected under applicable law. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all employees and applicants.