A Director of Government Affairs works within a business or organization to direct the organization's policies and objectives involving local, state, and federal government affairs. Establishes positive relationships with government, associated authorities and committees, legislatively represents and protects organization interests. Assists in the establishment of corporate strategies, policies and plans, ensuring they align with government laws, regulations and standards.
Remote in South Dakota with occasional travel required. Must reside in South Dakota.
Position Type:
Full-time, Exempt Salary:
$80,000 per year
Reports To:
Regional Advocacy Director - Central About American Families for Vaccines American Families for Vaccines (AFV) is a fast-growing, mission-driven organization mobilizing families, clinicians, and communities to support pro-vaccine policy and defeat anti-vaccine extremism. Our state chapters defend strong vaccine policy, fight misinformation, and advocate for evidence-based public health. As we scale both our 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) entities, we are expanding our national infrastructure and growing the number of state-based Families for Vaccines chapters. Position Summary The State Director will lead South Dakota Families for Vaccines as a senior-level organizer and strategic campaigner. This is a full-time position that combines high-level state leadership with hands-on grassroots organizing, political strategy, and public health advocacy. The Director will manage chapter development, coordinate legislative and non-legislative campaigns, build coalitions, develop local leadership, and serve as the public face of the chapter. This is a high-autonomy position ideal for someone who can operate independently, thinks strategically, and thrives in a mission-driven, high-impact environment. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Serve as the lead strategist and spokesperson for South Dakota Families for Vaccines Design and execute state strategic plans, including legislative and public education campaigns Track and respond to legislative and regulatory threats related to vaccine policy Represent the organization in coalitions, media, and policy forums Grassroots Organizing Recruit, train, and mobilize advocates, including experts, parents, and community leaders Develop and lead advocacy trainings, storytelling initiatives, and public testimony prep Plan and execute statewide advocacy days and rapid response actions Build and maintain a strong network of in-state partners and volunteers Communications & Media Develop content for social media, newsletters, and action alerts Serve as a media spokesperson when needed Collaborate with AFV national communications staff to ensure message alignment Policy & Government Relations Cultivate relationships with legislators, staff, and relevant agencies Brief policymakers and allies on the importance of immunization policy Draft fact sheets, memos, and position statements Operational & Reporting Track and report monthly and quarterly progress to AFV leadership Manage an in-state budget (with support from the national finance team) Contribute to grant proposals and reporting Supervise part-time staff, volunteers, or interns as chapter growth allows Qualifications We do not expect all candidates to have every qualification. If you're passionate about vaccines, organizing, and health equity, we encourage you to apply. 5+ years of relevant experience (organizing, policy, public health, advocacy) Proven experience running or coordinating successful advocacy or legislative campaigns Deep knowledge of the state political and health landscape Strong public speaking, writing, and interpersonal skills Experience working with marginalized communities Commitment to evidence-based policy and science communication Ability to work some evenings/weekends and travel in-state as needed Preferred Qualifications Background in public health, education, medicine, or policy Familiarity with Quorum, Canva, or other digital organizing and design tools Bilingual or multilingual proficiency
Compensation & Benefits Salary:
$80,000 annually
Benefits:
Fully paid health insurance for employee, partner and dependents, Generous PTO, paid holidays, and remote work flexibility. Flexible work hours and fully remote work environment with opportunities to travel and engage colleagues in-person a few times per year. 401(k) with employer contribution Short and Long Term Disability and Parental Leave Equal Employment Opportunity American Families for Vaccines is an equal opportunity employer, and is committed to hiring without regard to age, race, ethnicity, ability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family status, disability, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require accommodations or assistance to complete an application, we welcome you to contact hr@familiesforvaccines.org.
