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Statewide Systems Advocacy Network Coordinator (SSAN) & Advocacy Analyst
Utica, NY
Posted Jul 9, 2025
- Position Status:
- Full Time
- Hours Per Week:
- 35
- Starting Pay Rate:
- $24.73 ($45,000 a year)
- Travel Required:
- Yes
- Purpose:
To encourage, model and bring advocacy leadership to people with disabilities in Montgomery, Fulton, Herkimer and Oneida Counties. To organize community action in support of statewide advocacy campaigns for systems change. To directly assist in developing, monitoring and meeting systems advocacy objectives in accordance with the job description. To promote and participate in RCIL’s advocacy efforts and assist in the development and execution of RCIL’s and New York State Independent Living Council’s (NYSILC) disability policy agency priority agenda. To provide comprehensive information and referral services. This role supports RCIL’s mission by advocating policy reforms that remove barriers, promote equity, and expand opportunities for people with disabilities to live in the community setting of their choice. The Analyst will coordinate coalitions, develop strategic responses to public policy proposals, prepare high-impact reports, and represent RCIL in interactions with government officials, legislators, state agencies, and advocacy partners.
RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage.
RCIL is an equal opportunity employer and it is the policy of RCIL not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.
Job Duties
- Coordinate and facilitate system-wide advocacy efforts, with RCIL staff, in coordination with RCIL’s Director Team and Leadership Team.
- Conduct in-depth research on laws, regulations, proposed policies, and trends impacting individuals with disabilities at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Assist in implementing outreach plans related to system-wide issues with RCIL staff when concerns are identified by any of the RCIL Centers (Amsterdam, Herkimer or Utica).
- Monitor legislative and administrative developments related to disability rights, Medicaid, housing, employment, transportation, education, and community-based supports.
- Coordinate joint responses to key policy issues in collaboration with advocacy organizations, Independent Living Centers, and disability-led groups.
- Establish no fewer than five (5) local partnerships or coalitions per contract year with organizations whose mission is consistent with Independent Living Philosophy in order to address issues of concern to people with disabilities.
- Draft clear, concise policy briefs, position papers, talking points, and testimony to educate lawmakers and public officials.
- Attend legislative hearings, agency meetings, and public comment sessions representing RCIL’s position.
- This position is responsible for the overall management of the assigned contract, including ensuring compliance with all associated deliverables, timelines, and reporting requirements. Responsibilities will be adapted as necessary in accordance with any future changes to contract terms or scope.”
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- A minimum of three to five years of experience working with individuals with disabilities is required.
- Prior experience in systems advocacy, community outreach, or leadership within nonprofit, governmental, or disability rights organizations is strongly preferred.
- Experience engaging with legislative processes—whether at the local, state, or federal level—is highly desirable and may include activities such as policy development, testimony preparation, or direct legislative engagement.
- Strong understanding of disability-related legislation, policies, and regulatory agencies, including but not limited to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, ACCES-VR, OPWDD, and Social Security programs.
- Familiarity with legislative and political processes, particularly as they relate to disability rights and public policy advocacy, is highly desirable.
- Must demonstrate the ability to synthesize complex policy information and communicate it clearly through well-structured written documents and effective oral presentations tailored to diverse audiences.
- Must demonstrate commitment to disability rights and independent living philosophy.
- Must have excellent oral and written communication, public speaking and the ability to work with a diverse population.
- Research, mediation, negotiation, community networking, and flexibility.
- Must be well-organized, be proficient in computers, able to work independently and able to meet deadlines.
- Must have reliable transportation. Committed to disability justice, racial equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and anti-poverty frameworks.
Education and Experience
- A Master’s degree in public policy or related degree is preferred, however candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a related field and 2-4 years experience in grassroots advocacy and/or policy development and analysis will be considered; an equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the essential duties of the position may be substituted.
Benefits
- PTO – vacation (16-24 days a year based on longevity) Sick leave 12 days a year, and 13 paid holidays
- Ability to work a 4-day schedule after 6 months on the job. Multiple work schedules available
- Wellness program with the ability to earn an additional 3 PTO days a year
- 401K with up to 10% employer investment
- Heavily subsidized health insurance with co-pays Vision and Dental insurance.
- Monthly contribution towards dependent care (to offset childcare costs)
- Company paid Life Insurance and Identity theft protection (LifeLock)
- Free covered parking
- Additional benefits available