Job Description

JOB TITLE: Term Lobbyist

TERM: January 2026 through March 2026, with the possibility of an extension

DATE OF POSTING: January 5, 2026

CLOSING DATE: January 16, 2026, or until filled

SALARY: $90,295

ESTIMATED DATE TO FILL: As soon as possible

Job Title: Term Lobbyist

General Description of the Position’s Function and Purpose

The Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) is seeking a Temporary Lobbyist to support its government relations team during the legislative session and peak public-policy periods. This role will advocate public education, Indiana’s educators, and students by representing ISTA before state lawmakers, and relevant agencies. The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of the Indiana legislative process, strong communication skills, and a passion for strengthening public education.

This role supports ISTA’s mission to advocate for quality public education, the rights of educators, and equitable opportunities for all Indiana students.

• This is a time-limited position based largely around the current Indiana legislative calendar.
• Some evening or early-morning work may be required depending on committee schedules.
• Occasional travel to schools, ISTA events, or regional activities may be necessary.

This is a temporary Professional Staff Organization (PSO) position and is subject to the collective bargaining agreement between ISTA and PSO. Compensation for this position includes salary, sick and vacation time after ninety days of employment, pay for certain holidays, basic business expense reimbursements, and eligibility for reimbursement of health insurance premiums up to a maximum limit for an individual on leave from a school employer. The position is assigned to the Indianapolis Headquarters office and reports to the Director of Government, community, racial and social justice, Deidre Rasheed.

The qualifications listed below are those qualifications required for the position but do not encompass all those activities which may be included in the responsibilities and performance expectations of the job. There are certain daily activities related to the individual’s job that may be performed regularly but are too general in nature to include.

Responsibilities

• Represent ISTA at the Indiana Statehouse, legislative committee hearings, and meetings with policymakers.
• Provide testimony, talking points, and issue briefs supporting ISTA’s public education priorities.
• Communicate ISTA’s positions clearly and professionally to legislators, staff, and coalition partners.
• Assist in Community Outreach
• Assist in developing legislative strategies and rapid response plans in line with ISTA’s mission and goals.
• Prepare timely bill summaries, policy briefs, and strategic recommendations for ISTA leadership.
• Maintain accurate records of meetings, legislative interactions, and advocacy activities.
• Ensure compliance with Indiana lobbying registration and reporting requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, education, law, communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Prior experience in lobbying, government relations, or work within the Indiana legislature strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of public education issues and the K–12 policy landscape in Indiana.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues.
• Strong relationship-building skills and a professional presence when interacting with policymakers.
• Ability to work efficiently during fast-paced legislative cycles and adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Strong organizational, research, and analytical abilities.

Application Procedure

Applications will be accepted through January 16, 2026, or until filled. Please send a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references to Nicole Wise at nwise@ista-in.org.

About ISTA

The Indiana State Teachers Association provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetics.

Consistent with the ISTA Affirmative Action Plan, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, individuals of all ages (18 or older), and veterans are encouraged to apply.

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