Assistant Manager, Congressional Affairs (Project Management)

The Association of American Railroads (AAR), the world's leading railroad policy, research, standard-setting, and technology organization, is focused on enhancing the safety and productivity of the U.S. freight rail industry.

The Assistant Manager has responsibility for supporting the day-to-day operations of the Government Affairs division. These duties include overseeing the day-to-day operations of Government Affairs, assisting with Government Affairs team budgets, and providing administrative support to the Government Affairs team. Additionally, they will work to influence congressional consideration of legislation, consistent with the objectives of the Association, and will be a registered lobbyist. The incumbent will also manage AAR's participation across various coalitions with the aim of heading off harmful initiatives and supporting beneficial ones.

Specific responsibilities are described below.

This position reports to the Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, and supports the Government Affairs division.
Minimal travel is required for this position.
Administrative Duties

Input invoices and assist in managing/forecasting department budgets and assist with contract management
Help develop, manage, and prepare annual Government Affairs, Communications, and relevant Special Project budget submissions
Coordinate and oversee a variety of AAR-sponsored legislative events, including Railroad Day on the Hill
Provide administrative support to the Government Affairs and Communications team
Prepare and submit quarterly and semi-annual lobbying disclosure reports and ensure compliance with all relevant Congressional ethics rules

Lobbying Duties

Monitor and track important legislative and regulatory issues
Attend and report on congressional hearings and briefings as directed
Attend and participate in industry fundraisers
Advocate industry positions with Congressional members and staff
Develop and maintain relations with strategic partners, including the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus
Actively pursue expansion of job-related responsibilities, skills, and knowledge, and demonstrate initiative whenever possible
Other duties as assigned

The above description of responsibilities is representative of the position and the knowledge and experience a successful candidate is expected to have when hired but is not intended to limit or preclude other responsibilities and tasks that may be associated with or added to the position based on the needs and strategic direction of the organization.