Job Posting: Political Director

Political Director

Based in Rocky Hill, CT

ABOUT US

The Connecticut American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is dedicated to improving the lives of working people. We represent a diverse coalition of hundreds of local unions, comprising almost 250,000 union members in the private sector, public sector, and building trades. Our members live and work in every city and town in our state, and reflect the diversity that makes Connecticut great.

Together with our affiliates, Area Labor Federations, labor chapters, and community partners, we strive to ensure that all working people are treated fairly with decent wages, benefits, safe working conditions, dignity, equal opportunities, and a voice on the job.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Connecticut AFL-CIO is seeking an experienced and passionate Political Director to lead our electoral efforts as we prepare for the 2026 elections. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in electoral politics, a strong policy background, and the ability to drive strategic initiatives from conception to execution.

This role will involve significant writing and policy work. The Political Director will be expected to craft and execute political strategies that advance the AFL-CIO’s priorities while effectively engaging union members, affiliates, leaders, and our community allies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the principal strategist for the state federation’s electoral efforts, starting with our Labor 2026 Election Program. Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to support and help elect pro-labor candidates.
• Design and implement targeted political campaigns, utilizing canvassing, phone banking, worksite visits, mail, texting, and other tactics. Additionally, as part of the overall political campaign, run voter registration drives and issue organizing campaigns.
• Oversee affiliate and member volunteer recruitment, mobilization, and training.
• Oversee the execution of the union member candidates’ program, known as Path to Power.
• Draft and edit political materials, including flyers, scripts, mailers, electoral updates to affiliates, and other communications. Ensure clear, impactful messaging that is worker focused.
• Work with the data director to determine the campaign’s target universe and serve as the lead staff person for all campaign vendors.
• Oversee entry, retrieval, and analysis of voter data in the LAN/VAN and serve as back-up LAN/VAN data specialist.
• Engage affiliates, area labor federations, and labor chapters in the strategy of political and issue campaigns.
• Assist the area labor federations in the development and implementation of an effective municipal political program.
• Lead lobbying efforts with Connecticut’s federal delegation.
• Assist the Legislative Director with state lobbying efforts during the legislative session.
• Represent the state federation at coalition meetings and with external organizations.
• Assist with other state federation programs and priorities such as Workers Memorial Day, Labor Day breakfast, legislative conferences, lobby days, and conventions.
• Serve as the lead staff person for the Committee on Political Education.
• Assist Connecticut AFL-CIO officers on special projects, as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of five years’ experience in political program development and implementation, with significant experience managing mobilization programs.
• Previously worked as a Campaign Manager in an electoral campaign.
• Ability to plan and organize multiple campaigns and projects simultaneously in a high-pressure environment requiring rapid adjustment to changing priorities, strategies, and deadlines.
• Demonstrated leadership experience within the labor movement or similar advocacy organizations.
• Understanding of the labor movement and its structure in Connecticut.
• Experience with lobbying at the municipal, state, and/or federal level.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and proven ability to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders and convey complex ideas clearly.
• Strong work ethic.
• A deep commitment to the labor movement and to advancing social justice.
• An ability to work in a demanding, fast-paced environment, including flexibility on nights and weekends.

COMPENSATION

Competitive salary ranging from $60,000 to $102,000, commensurate with skills and experience.

Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision coverage; generous paid time off (vacation, personal days, sick leave, holidays, and compensatory time); a defined benefit pension plan and 401(k) with employer match; and vehicle and cell phone reimbursement.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE & DEADLINE

To apply, please include:

1. Cover letter
2. Résumé
3. A recent writing sample (3-page maximum)
4. Three professional references

Please email all materials to ctafl-cio@ctaflcio.org.

Deadline to apply is Friday, April 24, 2026.