This is a remote position.
Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is the only national organization that supports every part of the child care system. In partnership with an on-the-ground network of Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) organizations, we work in states and communities to advance high-quality, affordable child care—transforming a patchwork of resources into a system that works for everyone. Together, we make child care strong—and that makes everyone stronger. CCAoA is committed to recruiting and retaining a dynamic workforce to help build a child care system that serves all children and families. Join us in ensuring that every family has access to high-quality, affordable child care.
The State Policy Manager leads CCAoA’s state policy work, helping to analyze policy landscapes, develop high‑impact resources, and support advocacy efforts nationwide. This role requires strong analytical, writing, and project management skills, as well as the ability to build relationships with partners and represent the organization in policy and advocacy spaces. We are looking for a thoughtful, energetic, and collaborative professional who excels at managing multiple projects, building strong partnerships, and turning research and insights into actionable policy and advocacy strategies. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a mission‑driven environment and wants to help elevate child care as a national priority. This position is 100% remote.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE WORKING WITH US:
At Child Care Aware of America, we believe that a happy, healthy team is the foundation of our success. That's why we offer an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: We provide top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family healthy and thriving. Flexible Spending Account options for Health and Dependent Care too!
- Generous Paid Time Off: Enjoy ample vacation days, sick days, paid holidays, school events leave and personal leave to recharge and pursue your passions.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Whether the position is remote or hybrid, we accommodate your needs to help you achieve a harmonious work-life balance.
- Retirement Plans: Plan for your future with our competitive 403b match program and retirement planning resources.
- Child Care Stipend: A monthly subsidy to help cover the cost of child care - including camps and before/after school care.
- Community: Our staff regularly plan engaging events to ensure that teams feel connected despite a virtual environment.
POSITION, DUTIES & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
State Policy Research & Analysis
- Conduct ongoing research to analyze state child care and early learning policies across the country.
- Translate complex policy issues into clear, concise insights for advocates, partners, and internal stakeholders.
- Track state policy developments and advocacy activities and contribute to reporting on progress, impact, and key metrics.
Resource Development & Communications
- Develop high‑quality resources, including blogs, white papers, talking points, presentations, fact sheets, FAQs, regulatory comments, and state planning tools, that support effective state policy advocacy.
- Ensure materials reflect CCAoA’s mission, vision, and commitment to igniting opportunity for every child, family, and community.
State Initiatives & Project Management
- Support and help lead state policy initiatives through writing, analysis, project management, and other core activities.
- Identify policy opportunities in states and help shape CCAoA’s strategies.
- Assess the needs of state and local advocates, both within and outside the CCAoA Network.
- Develop and deliver responsive technical assistance and trainings tailored to partner needs.
- Troubleshoot issues and support partners as they navigate advocacy opportunities.
External Engagement
- Represent CCAoA in partner coalitions, national/state workgroups, and advocacy spaces through presentations, webinars, speeches, and resource development.
- Support press and media responses as needed.
- Assist with project development and fundraising efforts in partnership with colleagues.
Cross‑Team Collaboration
- Contribute to the strategy and planning work of the Policy & Advocacy Team.
- Collaborate with colleagues across CCAoA to execute projects and events—including Symposium, Leadership Institute, and other organizational initiatives.
Team Leadership & Management
- Supervise, coach, and support the Policy Analyst, including setting clear goals, providing regular feedback, and supporting professional growth.
- Oversee the Analyst’s workflow, ensuring high‑quality research, analysis, and project support aligned with team priorities.
- Provide guidance on policy research, writing, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen the Analyst’s skills and contributions.
- Delegate tasks and manage timelines to ensure efficient and effective execution of policy and advocacy projects.
- Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and learning‑focused team environment that reflects CCAoA’s values.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:
- Bachelor’s degree. A degree in public policy, communications, political science, or a related field is preferred.
- 5–7 years of experience in policy, advocacy, organizing, or communications within a nonprofit, campaign, government agency, or similar environment.
- Demonstrated ability to analyze policy issues, develop compelling written materials, and support advocacy efforts.
- Knowledge of the state policy process, environment, and stakeholders, including child care and early childhood education policy.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills; ability to manage relationships across the organization and with external partners.
- Outstanding communications skills, project management skills, and impeccable attention to detail. Experience managing multiple deadlines and coordinating complex projects.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Must be highly skilled with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experienced with AP Style.
- Proficiency with CRMs and Advocacy platforms. CCAoA currently uses Quorum, Politico Pro and Hubspot.
Salary Information:
The salary range reflected in this job posting is the hiring range for this position within the Washington DC Metropolitan area. Please note that a geographic differential will be applied to the salary for candidates hired from regions with a lower cost of living. This adjustment ensures competitive and equitable compensation based on location.
Notice:
Child Care Aware of America works in partnership with Talentuition & Infiniti HR throughout the hiring process. Candidates may receive outreach from representatives at Talentuition on behalf of Child Care Aware of America concerning interview scheduling, resume inquiries, and any further information necessary to begin the interview process.
