Date Posted:
May 8, 2026
Position Title:
Vice President of Public Policy (VPPP)
Office/Company:
Council for Opportunity in Education (COE)
Party:
N/A
Office Code:
Job Number:
HC-06201
Reports To:
Location:
Washington, DC
Contact:
Salary:
$150,000 – $175,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
Primary Role
Secondary Role:
Job Type:
Full Time
Description:
The Vice President of Public Policy (VPPP) serves as a leading advocate for the students served by the Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) — ensuring that the needs and experiences of low-income, first-generation students are reflected in all federal policy and funding decisions.Leadership, Strategic Planning, Community Engagement, Other Duties as AssignedAdvanced degree in law, public policy, public administration, or related field, At least five years of professional experience in government relations, Intimate understanding of higher education policy, including both the appropriations and authorization processes
Responsibilities:
• Government relations agenda — In collaboration with the senior leadership of COE, develop, design, communicate, and implement the government relations agenda of the Council and represent Council interests on Capitol Hill and before the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and other relevant entities.
• Representation — Represent COE and TRIO programs and students at congressional meetings, briefings, and within education coalitions across Washington, DC.
• Supervision — Supervise the Public Policy Associate and seasonal interns in the assistance of these and other duties.
• Strategic implementation — Work closely with the president and other executive and senior leaders to implement strategies to ensure achievement of the organization’s short- and long-term objectives.
• Legislative events — Plan, coordinate, and execute COE’s annual legislative events, including the Policy Seminar, congressional visits during the National Student Leadership Congress, Capitol Hill briefings, and related activities.
• TRIO engagement — Keep the TRIO community engaged in government relations activities throughout the country through weekly updates and regular field outreach.
Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in law, public policy, public administration, or related field
• At least five years of professional experience in government relations
• Intimate understanding of higher education policy, including both the appropriations and authorization processes
Instructions:
Email to apply
Other:
The Council considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, disability, marital, political or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.
