Established in 1958, the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is a nonprofit membership organization whose mission is to create a healthy, vibrant downtown for all. By advocating on issues including transportation, economic development and the urban experience, DSA works to ensure that downtown remains a great place to live, work, shop and play. 

As a member-based organization, a core function of DSA is advancing policies and advocacy efforts that support downtown businesses, nonprofits, property owners, residents, and visitors. DSA works closely with city and county leaders, neighborhood organizations, nonprofits, business groups, and government agencies to champion a thriving, welcoming, and economically competitive downtown. 

The Policy Advisor supports DSA’s public policy, advocacy, and economic development priorities by conducting policy research and analysis, developing policy recommendations, managing strategic partnerships, and advancing initiatives that strengthen downtown Seattle.  Reporting to the Vice President of Advocacy & Economic Development, this role serves as a key partner in advancing DSA’s strategic priorities and representing the organization on issues impacting Seattle’s urban core. 

This is a full-time position, expected to be onsite at DSA's office 5 days a week.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the implementation of DSA’s strategic plan by developing and advancing policy solutions that support a vibrant, safe, welcoming, and economically competitive downtown. 
• Conduct policy research, legislative and regulatory analysis, issue tracking, and data collection activities to inform DSA’s advocacy strategies and government affairs initiatives. 
• Develop and present policy recommendations, economic development initiatives, and incentive programs that promote downtown Seattle’s long-term growth. 
• Analyze and present transportation, public safety, and public realm data for audiences such as public officials and community stakeholders to support policy development and advocacy initiatives.  
• Build and maintain productive relationships and partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders that advance DSA’s policy priorities, advocacy efforts, and economic development initiatives, including government agencies, elected officials, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations.  
• Manage consultants, research projects, contracts, and grant-funded initiatives related to advocacy and economic development priorities. 
• Represent DSA at meetings, public hearings, task forces, coalitions, and community forums, providing public comment when appropriate.  
• Other duties as assigned. 

• Three (3) years working in public policy, government relations, economic development, nonprofit advocacy, public affairs, or related fields. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects, consultants, or cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment.  
• Ability to exercise strategic judgment and diplomacy in a wide variety of public situations and high-profile issues. 
• Knowledge of public policy issues impacting economic development of downtown and urban areas.  
• Experience building consensus and navigating complex stakeholder relationships. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Well-developed presentation and facilitation skills. 

Nice to Have 

• Familiarity with city, county, state, and federal government structures and legislative and political processes. 
• Experience with grassroots advocacy, community organizing and lobbying. 

Compensation & Benefits  

The pay rate for this position is $85,000 annual salary. Downtown Seattle Association provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:    

• Employer-paid full medical, dental, vision benefits, short and long-term disability, life insurance    
• 401(k) retirement plan with 5% employer match    
• 9 paid holidays + generous vacation, personal holidays that increase with tenure    
• Sick leave in accordance with Washington State Sick & Safe Leave law   
• Annual ORCA transit pass    
• First Choice EAP     
• Flexible Spending Account     

We recognize there is value in the Downtown Seattle Association and our affiliate organizations and programs reflecting the diversity of our community and we are intentionally and actively seeking out applications from a variety of backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).    

Downtown Seattle Association is an equal opportunity employer. All employees and potential employees will be recruited, selected, trained, promoted, and, if necessary, disciplined without regard to sex, race, religion, creed, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, color, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political ideology or activity, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status. All applicants are carefully screened, and full consideration is given to their training, education, skills, aptitudes, experience and previous work record. In addition, DSA does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information in its employment related policies and practices, including coverage under its health benefits program.