Posted: Mar 13, 2026
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Associate, State Affairs

Full-time
Application Deadline: N/A
NGO/Non-Profit

POSITION TITLE:  Associate, State Affairs

STATUS:  Full time / Exempt

LOCATION:  Chicago, Illinois (Hybrid: 2 days/week on-site, 3 days/week remote)

 

ABOUT NCSBN

The National Council of States Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is an independent, not-for-profit organization through which nursing regulatory bodies act and counsel together on matters of common interest and concern affecting public health, safety and welfare, including the development of nursing licensure examinations. Our mission empowers and supports nursing regulators in their mandate to protect the public.

 

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a talented professional to join our growing State Affairs team. The ideal candidate will bring value to the team by using their skills and knowledge to actively monitor and engage in state legislative activities related to nursing practice and regulation.

Reporting to the Director, Government Affairs, the Associate, State Affairs will have the unique opportunity to interact with a variety of stakeholders during advocacy and policy discussions including regulators, state lawmakers, and nursing and business leaders.

This role is the perfect opportunity for an experienced legislative affairs professional looking for a role that interacts with a breadth of policies, while allowing them to be involved in diverse stakeholder coalition activities (e.g., political, marketing, etc.)!

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assists in execution of state legislative strategy to support passage of priority bills, including direct collaboration with legislators and stakeholders.
  • Monitors the legislative environment and keeps members apprised of trends and emerging policy issues. Assists members in navigating policy issues. Organizes and executes the weekly legislative update.
  • Represents NCSBN at state capitals and at state and national meetings. Networks on behalf of the organization. Builds and maintains strategic relationships.
  • Assists in developing fact sheets, testimony, and resources for membership and external stakeholders. Maintains NCSBN department and campaign website, as well as related resources.
  • Participates in NCSBN programs and projects such as planning and preparations for conferences and authoring policy articles for the Journal of Nursing Regulation (JNR).

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in public policy or related field required.
  • Minimum of four years of experience in public advocacy, state legislative affairs, or state government relations.
  • Superior verbal, written communication skills.
  • Must be analytical, organized and able to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to take initiative and demonstrate self-motivation.
  • Demonstrates high ethical standards and strong political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive situations effectively.
  • Ability to travel as required.

 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The anticipated starting salary for this position is $63,000 – $72,000 annually. Actual compensation will be dependent on a candidate’s relevant experience, skills, training, certifications/licenses, qualifications and geographical location.

NCSBN offers eligible employees a competitive benefits package that provides our team members with plan options to meet their individual needs. Review benefit details here: https://www.ncsbn.org/about/governance-and-staff/careers/ncsbn-benefits.page

 

TO BE CONSIDERED

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume as soon as possible.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is an equal employment opportunity employer.  Decisions affecting employment are considered without regard to disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected characteristic.