Principal, Policy Development - Emerging Science
- Location
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Work mode
- On-site
- Employment type
- Full-time
About the job
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is the nation's leading cancer advocacy organization. Together with our charitable partner, the American Cancer Society, we work in Congress, state legislatures and local jurisdictions to support evidence-based policy and legislative solutions designed to eliminate cancer as a major health problem.
The Director, Policy Development is responsible for a portfolio of policy issues that guide and support ACS CAN’s advocacy agenda at the state, federal and local levels. Portfolios encompass a wide range of complex issues that are a priority for ACS CAN and the position requires senior level policy and/or legislative expertise in the key issue areas. This position works collaboratively across ACS and ACS CAN to develop and communicate clear public policy positions and guidance.
E SSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Oversee a portfolio of ACS CAN’s priority policy issues , provide thought leadership to identify emerging issues that will impact the organization’s advocacy positions , and lead development of policy recommendations; (50%)
- D evelop special reports and undertake major projects that are used to educate and persuade policymakers on key health issues; ( 15 %)
- Develop strategic partnerships and work collaboratively with external organizations and partners to advance ACS CAN’s policy advocacy; (10%)
- Analyz e state and federal legislative proposals and federal regulations, develop written responses and mak e recommendation to state and federal colleagues; (20%)
- Serv e as a policy expert for media inquiries and for ACS CAN-sponsored coalitions; and (5%)
EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum Degree Required: Bachelor's Degree
- Preferred Degree: Master's Degree or Juris Doctorate
- Years of experience : 10+ years experience , a pplied policy and/or legislative experience at the state or federal level highly desired; experience with a nonprofit advocacy organization of benefit; demonstrated public policy experience and analysis, and knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes at the local, state and federal levels of government.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills and interpersonal communications skills
- Experience with collaborative, complex organizations
- Expertise in public policy analysis and support of local, state and federal legislative issues
- Ability to work in a highly charged and competitive political environment
- Must be able to manage nationwide efforts involving multiple priorities, be comfortable with deadlines, and maintain a flexible, pragmatic approach to work requirements
- Able to foster professional, interdependent relationships with other staff to achieve mutually satisfactory approaches and products
- Experience with designing/formatting presentations
- Demonstrated knowledge of areas of portfolio responsibility
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
- Some travel may be involved
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- N/A
The starting rate is $150,000 to $170,000. The final candidate's relevant experience/skills will be considered before an offer is extended. Actual starting pay will vary based on non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, geographic location, experience, skills, specialty, and education.
ACS CAN provides staff a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental, retirement benefits, wellness programs, and professional development programs to enhance staff skills. Further details on our benefits can be found on our careers site at: jobs.cancer.org/benefits. We are a proud equal opportunity employer.
From American Cancer Society, Inc.'s careers page (Workday), checked 5 Nov 2026.
How to apply
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Posted 4 Nov 2026 · checked 5 Nov 2026 · Report this job