NCFO
National Conference of Firemen & Oilers 32BJ SEIU

Government Affairs Specialist / Special Assistant to the President

Based in Falls Church, VA
(Washington DC area)

 

Organization Overview:
The National Conference of Firemen & Oilers (NCFO), is a non-profit labor union affiliated with the Service Employees International Union, dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights, safe and working conditions of workers nationwide. We represent members in the railroad industry, schools, utility workers, manufacturing, and various industries throughout the country.  

Position Overview: 
NCFO is seeking an experienced Government Affairs Professional to lead its legislative and regulatory advocacy at the federal and state levels. The ideal candidate will have experience working with the White House, Congress, and federal agencies (including DOT, FRA, NTSB, DOL). This position also offers the opportunity to broaden your expertise and deepen your understanding of the rail industry by serving as Special Assistant to the President, participating in high-level meetings, conferences, and strategic initiatives. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and implement NCFO’s governmental affairs strategy at the federal, state, and local levels to advance the interests of NCFO members. 
• Advise the President on legislative priorities, policy positions, and engagement opportunities. 
• Build and maintain productive relationships with policymakers, congressional staff and federal agencies.  
• Monitor, analyze, and brief leadership on legislation, regulations, and policy developments affecting rail safety, operations, and labor. 
• Draft testimony, comments, and communications for internal and external audiences. 
• Support political engagement and compliance with NCFO policies and applicable laws. 
• Manage special projects and sensitive assignments for the Office of the President. 
• All other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or related field. 
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in legislative, policy work, or government affairs work (labor or transportation background preferred). 
• Thorough understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes, particularly in transportation or labor sectors.  
• Proven ability to build bipartisan relationships and represent organizational interests effectively. 
• Professional demeanor, sound judgment, and impeccable ethics. 
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Established government contacts at the state and federal levels. 
• Strategic thinker with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities. 
• Commitment to the labor movement and workers’ rights. 
• Willingness to travel as needed

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary commensurate with experience 
• Full-time position
• Comprehensive Health & Welfare Plan, including dental and vision coverage
• Defined pension benefit 
• NCFO is a Railroad Retirement-covered employer (not Social Security)

How to Apply:
Submit via email a résumé and cover letter outlining why you are the ideal fit for this role by July 1, 2026 to: mail@ncfo.org. Subject line: Government Affairs