Application Guide
How to Apply for Associate Director, Education Policy, CEA Flexible within the US: South or Midwest Preferred
at AJC
🏢 About AJC
AJC is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people, with an unparalleled reach spanning six continents and engagements in more than 110 countries. Its Center for Education Advocacy (CEA) operates at the intersection of Jewish advocacy and educational transformation, working to create inclusive K-12 and higher education spaces resilient against antisemitism. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that combines research-based approaches with long-term partnerships to strengthen both Jewish inclusion and democratic values in American education.
About This Role
The Associate Director, Education Policy, CEA supports AJC’s education policy, government advocacy, research, materials development, and regional guidance work. This role is pivotal in shaping policies and programs that counter antisemitism and promote inclusive education, directly impacting how educational institutions address Jewish safety and democratic values. The position is remote, with a preference for candidates based in the South or Midwest, and involves collaborating with administrators, faculty, students, and parents to drive systemic change.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve researching state-level education policies, drafting a policy brief or advocacy materials, meeting with regional partners or government officials to discuss policy strategies, and collaborating with AJC colleagues across departments to align efforts. You might also provide guidance to regional offices on education policy matters and prepare for upcoming legislative sessions or advocacy campaigns.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AJC Is Looking For
- Demonstrated experience in education policy development, legislative advocacy, or government relations, ideally at the K-12 or higher education level.
- Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into accessible materials for diverse stakeholders.
- Proven ability to build and maintain partnerships with educational institutions, community organizations, and government officials.
- Deep understanding of antisemitism, Jewish inclusion, and democratic values in education, and a commitment to AJC’s mission.
- Experience providing regional guidance or support, with the flexibility to work remotely and travel as needed, especially in the South or Midwest.
📝 Tips for Applying to AJC
Highlight any experience working with Jewish organizations or on antisemitism-related issues, as AJC values candidates who understand the specific challenges facing the Jewish community.
Emphasize your ability to develop and implement education policy at the state or local level, particularly in the South or Midwest, since the role is flexible but prefers those regions.
Showcase your research and writing skills by providing examples of policy briefs, reports, or advocacy materials you have produced.
Demonstrate your ability to work remotely and collaborate across teams, as AJC has a global presence and this role requires coordination with various departments.
Mention any experience with government advocacy or legislative processes, as the role involves supporting CEA’s government advocacy work.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific experience in education policy and advocacy, particularly any work related to countering antisemitism or promoting Jewish inclusion in educational settings.', 'Your understanding of the current landscape of antisemitism in K-12 and higher education, and how you would approach policy solutions.', 'Your ability to build partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including educators, administrators, and community leaders, to advance policy goals.', 'Why you are drawn to AJC’s mission and how your background aligns with the Center for Education Advocacy’s three key areas: higher education, K-12 education, and education policy.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore AJC’s Center for Education Advocacy (CEA) and its three focus areas: higher education, K-12 education, and education policy. Understand their past initiatives and current campaigns.
- → Research recent AJC reports or statements on antisemitism in education, such as their State of Antisemitism reports or policy recommendations.
- → Learn about the educational policy landscape in the South or Midwest, including recent legislation or debates related to antisemitism, Jewish inclusion, and democratic values in schools.
- → Identify key partners and stakeholders AJC works with in education, such as administrators, faculty, students, and parents, and understand how the CEA collaborates with them.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid generic cover letters that don’t mention AJC’s specific mission or the Center for Education Advocacy’s work.
- Do not overlook the regional preference for the South or Midwest; if you are based elsewhere, explain your connection or willingness to travel to those regions.
- Avoid failing to demonstrate knowledge of antisemitism and Jewish inclusion issues, as this is central to the role.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!