Junior Legislative Representative

At AOTA, we believe excellence occurs when:

• Trust and respect are incorporated into decisions at all levels.
• AOTA invests in its employees; and
• Responsibility and accountability for work are fairly assigned.

We believe that:

• Autonomy and empowerment are essential to satisfaction and productivity.
• Creativity and innovation only improve projects and outcomes; and
• Diversity and inclusivity are essential to success.

WORK ENVIRONMENT (Hybrid/Remote):

• This is a remote position, with the option to work in a hybrid capacity at our Bethesda, Maryland HQ or our shared workspace in Washington, D.C.
• Eligible candidates must be available for in-person meetings and PAC-related activities as needed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The American Occupational Therapy Association’s Junior Legislative Representative is a key position that represents and advocates for AOTA's interests before the U.S. Congress and select federal agencies. Integral to advancing AOTA’s federal policy priorities, the Jr. Legislative Representative plays a critical role in monitoring legislative activities, building strategic relationships, and communication with AOTA members about advocacy efforts. The position requires significant judgment, innovative thinking, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. It is ideal for an early-career professional seeking to establish themselves in the lobbying world, particularly in healthcare policy, with opportunities to influence meaningful legislative outcomes.

POSITION SPECIFIC DUTIES:

• Monitor and analyze Congressional legislative proposals and activities for relevance to occupational therapy and assess their impact and implications.
• Collaborate to develop and implement strategies for advancing AOTA’s legislative goals.
• Conduct lobbying activities, including attending committee hearings, cultivating relationships with Congressional Members and staff, and representing AOTA at meetings and AOTPAC events.
• Prepare materials such as testimony, comment letters, and advocacy updates to support advocacy efforts.
• Participate in relevant coalitions, fostering partnerships with national health, disability, education, and professional organizations to advance AOTA’s advocacy goals.
• Assist the Federal Congressional and Regulatory Affairs team in managing and responding to incoming inquiries from occupational therapy practitioners to ensure timely response.
• Collaborate effectively across the association, including with State Affairs, Practice, and Marketing and Communication, to support ongoing AOTA member education and grassroots advocacy efforts.
• Performs other duties as assigned.