State Government Affairs Associate

Salary range: 70-80k About the Organization The Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (DPAC) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit dedicated to advocating for policy changes that improve the lives of those living with or at risk of diabetes. DPAC directly lobbies legislators to advance the interests of the diabetes community, working to influence healthcare policy and state-level legislation that affects diabetes care, prevention, and treatment.

Position Overview: DPAC seeks a State Government Affairs Associate to support its state-level legislative initiatives, pushing for policy improvements that directly benefit individuals living with diabetes. This role involves direct lobbying, managing relationships with state government officials, coordinating testimonies, and educating lawmakers on diabetes-related policies. This position is fully remote but may require up to 40% travel for legislative hearings (which are often on short notice), conferences, and board events. The Associate will report to the Director of State Government Affairs.

Key Responsibilities: Identify, analyze, and track state legislative developments impacting people with diabetes, monitoring policy trends and assessing implications for DPAC’s mission. Ensure that patients with diabetes have a strong voice in health policy decision making. Testify on behalf of DPAC at state legislative hearings. Set up and facilitate testimony from affected individuals, community leaders, and experts to support DPAC’s advocacy priorities. Lobby state legislators, regulatory agencies, and local government officials on behalf of DPAC to advance diabetes-related health policies. Support state-based partners through Patient Pocket Protector Coalition (providing updates on state legislative activity, support on lobbying strategy and events). Act as a representative for DPAC in coalitions to build partnerships and amplify DPAC’s influence.

Education & Experience: 2-4 years of experience in state-level lobbying, public policy, or government relations, with a background in health policy or chronic disease advocacy. Experience either directly lobbying state legislators or working in a state legislative office. Experience working with impacted community stakeholders and supporting state-based coalition efforts. Thorough understanding of the state legislative/political process. Proven ability to effectively handle multiple complex projects and issues (preferably across several states). Proficiency with state legislation tracking and relationship management software, with a preference for Fiscal Note (now Policy Note). Excellent verbal and written communication, strong presentation skills, and confidence in public speaking. Experience working remotely and independently, with excellent time management and organizational skills. Capacity to collaborate effectively with community stakeholders. Ability to work assertively and influence stakeholders, with a strategic mindset to advance DPAC’s policy objectives.

Additional Information: This is a full-time, remote position with benefits. DPAC is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candidates with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Other Industries Public Policy Offices