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Democracy Forward Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We Vote

Motion Graphics Designer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

... Democracy. About Us WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup and a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit technology grantee. WeVote is a movement of over 60 passionate volunteers ...

We Vote

QA Automation Engineer - Volunteer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

... American Democracy via our Web and Mobile applications. These are long-term, VOLUNTEER ... About Us WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup and a celebrated Fast Forward ...

We Vote

Senior Software Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$140K - $185K/yr

WeVote is a great opportunity to get involved with supporting American Democracy. About Us WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup and a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit ...

WeVote

Senior Software Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

WeVote is a great opportunity to get involved with supporting American Democracy. About Us WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup and a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit ...

We Vote

Senior Recruiter (Volunteer)

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

About WeVote WeVote is a nonpartisan, volunteer-powered nonprofit using technology to help voters make informed decisions and participate in democracy more easily. We are a Fast Forward nonprofit ...

We Vote

IT System Support Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $34/hr

About WeVote WeVote is a nonpartisan nonprofit startup on a mission to strengthen American democracy through innovative technology. As a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit technology grantee, we're ...

We Vote

Technical Support Rep

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

About WeVote WeVote is a nonpartisan nonprofit startup on a mission to strengthen American democracy through innovative technology. As a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit technology grantee, we're ...

We Vote

Recruiter

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

About Us WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup and a celebrated Fast Forward ... You are committed to strengthening American Democracy. * You are striving for personal excellence ...

We Vote

Newsletter Writer/Content Developer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

... American Democracy. The newsletter writer will be tasked with writing engaging and informative ... WeVote is a nonpartisan get-out-the-vote nonprofit startup, and a celebrated Fast Forward nonprofit ...

Neros Technologies

Engineer, Sensors

Torrance, CA · On-site

$111K - $155K/yr

... of democracy. We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on ... We should move the FPV industry forward by bringing knowledge and expertise from other industries ...

Neros Technologies

Engineer, Sensors

Torrance, CA

$111K - $155K/yr

... of democracy. We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on ... We should move the FPV industry forward by bringing knowledge and expertise from other industries ...

We Vote

Deputy Executive Director

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$50K - $100K/yr

WeVote has support from the Fast Forward network, which has been an excellent resource for ... Strengthen Democracy one-friend-at-a-time by providing tools that connect voters with their ...

We Vote

Google Analytics Specialist

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

About WeVote WeVote is a nonpartisan, volunteer-powered nonprofit using technology to help voters make informed decisions and participate in democracy more easily. We are a Fast Forward nonprofit ...

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Democracy Forward information

What is Democracy Forward?

Democracy Forward is a nonprofit legal organization that focuses on protecting democracy by challenging corruption, abuse of power, and threats to democratic institutions through litigation, policy advocacy, and public education. The organization works with partners across the country to hold government officials and agencies accountable to the law and support efforts that strengthen democratic norms. Democracy Forward often represents individuals, advocacy groups, and communities in court cases related to government transparency, civil rights, and public interest issues.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at Democracy Forward, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Professionals at Democracy Forward often work in a fast-paced, issue-driven environment where priorities can shift quickly in response to current events and legal developments. Common challenges include managing multiple high-impact projects simultaneously, adapting to emerging policy changes, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams such as legal, communications, and policy experts. New team members can best prepare by developing strong organizational skills, staying informed about legal and policy trends, and being comfortable working in a mission-driven, highly collaborative setting. Being proactive and open to learning will help navigate the dynamic nature of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Advocate at Democracy Forward, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Advocate at Democracy Forward, you typically need a background in public policy, law, or government affairs, along with strong research and analytical skills. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, legislative tracking systems, and legal research databases is often required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, strategic thinking, and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable effective advocacy, informed policy recommendations, and impactful legal or policy change in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

What is the difference between Democracy Forward vs Advocacy Coordinator?

AspectDemocracy ForwardAdvocacy Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in policy or legal researchBachelor's degree, experience in advocacy or public relations
Work EnvironmentNonprofit, advocacy, legal or policy-focusedNonprofit, advocacy, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations focused on legal and policy advocacyCommon in nonprofits and advocacy groups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in legal/policy advocacyExploring advocacy roles in nonprofits

Democracy Forward primarily focuses on legal and policy advocacy within nonprofit organizations, often involving research and legal analysis. Advocacy Coordinators typically handle outreach, campaign planning, and community engagement. While both roles work in advocacy settings, Democracy Forward emphasizes legal and policy work, whereas Advocacy Coordinators focus on organizing and mobilizing support.

Is Democracy Forward a good place to work?

Democracy Forward is a nonprofit organization focused on government accountability and transparency. Employees often cite a mission-driven environment and opportunities for advocacy work, but experiences can vary based on role and department. Researching specific positions and organizational culture can provide more insight into job satisfaction.

What are popular job titles related to Democracy Forward jobs in California?

For Democracy Forward jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Democracy Forward jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Democracy Forward jobs in California are:

Democracy Forward jobs near you
Infographic showing various Democracy Forward job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Director of Policy and Democratic Governance

CA • On-site

Race Forward
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Race Forwardexternal

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Title: Director of Policy and Democratic Governance
Reports to: Vice President of Place, Policy, and Power
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Range: $115,106 - $130,208
Location: Remote
Tentative Start Date: ASAP
About Race Forward
Race Forward's mission is to catalyze movement building for racial justice. In partnership with communities, organizations, and sectors, we build strategies to advance racial justice in our policies, institutions, and culture. Race Forward imagines a just, multiracial democratic society free from oppression and exploitation, in which people of color thrive with power and purpose.
Since 1981, Race Forward has brought a systemic analysis and an innovative approach to complex race issues to help people take effective action toward racial equity. In 2017 Race Forward united with the Center for Social Inclusion to become the new Race Forward.
Position Summary
The Director of Policy and Democratic Governance is part of Race Forward's newly formed Place, Policy, and Power (PPP) department.
PPP's approach to policy aims to strengthen a just, multiracial democracy through a whole-of-government approach that defends, strengthens, and expands equity-centered policy and practice across local, state, and federal levels. We seek to build durable narratives about the power and responsibility of government in delivering fair and just outcomes for all who live within our communities. We bridge organizing and policy strategies across sectors and scales of governance.
Reporting to the Vice President of Place, Policy, and Power, the Director of Policy and Democratic Governance leads the team's efforts to align and advance policy development that is community-rooted, government-facing, and nationally resonant. The role supports policy development and advocacy in an effort to identify emerging policy issues and best practices. This role builds bridges across levels of government; organizes strategies with other national intermediaries; and ensures that local and state innovations inform and shape national dialogues to secure transformative outcomes.
This position is included in a union-represented Collective Bargaining Unit, and specific employment terms and conditions are subject to collective bargaining.
Duties and Responsibilities
Policy Strategy and Development
  • Advance a whole-of-government approach to racial equity policy-development, connecting local, regional, state, and federal initiatives.
  • Partner with local leaders and government officials to develop policy solutions that expand fair and just outcomes while growing collective power to govern.
  • Track, analyze, and synthesize emerging policy issues across multiple sectors (e.g., democracy, governance, climate, housing, economic justice) to identify cross-cutting opportunities.
  • Support the design of narrative and messaging strategies that reinforce the role of government in defending and expanding a just, multiracial democracy.

Movement and Government Partnerships
  • Build and maintain partnerships with national intermediaries, advocacy networks, and coalitions to align policy efforts with racial equity movement strategies and campaigns.
  • Provide technical assistance, policy expertise, and strategy facilitation to government partners and multi-sector coalitions.
  • Convene and support peer learning spaces across local, state, and federal partners to foster shared learning, alignment, and scaling of strategies.
  • Represent Race Forward on national public forums, coalitions, and advisory boards.

Research, Reports, and Tools Development
  • Use data in ways that build governing power and create pathways for shared learning and testing of model policies that accelerate collective action.
  • Collaborate with Race Forward projects and departments to design and publish policy reports, briefs, and narrative tools that strengthen policy development, advocacy, implementation, and evaluation.
  • Develop practical racial justice policy tools and frameworks for advocates, policymakers, and government practitioners.
  • Translate research and policy analysis into accessible communications and training resources.

Project Management and Internal Systems
  • Work with the Vice President of PPP to set strategic direction, goals, and priorities.
  • Lead cross-departmental projects that integrate policy with narrative and government practice.
  • Manage multiple projects and partnerships, ensuring deliverables are met on time and aligned with Race Forward's racial justice values.
  • Support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, reporting, and funder engagement.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
To perform successfully in this role, the Director of Policy and Democratic Governance should demonstrate:
  • Policy Expertise: Deep understanding of policy development and implementation across local, state, and federal government, with knowledge of racial equity and democracy-strengthening frameworks.
  • Cross-Scale Analysis: Ability to connect issues and strategies across levels of government and multiple policy domains (e.g., democracy, climate, housing, economic justice).
  • Facilitation and Convening: Strong facilitation skills and ability to support multi-stakeholder groups toward alignment and shared strategy.
  • Communications: Capacity to clearly articulate policy issues verbally and in writing, and to contribute to narrative and strategic communications campaigns.
  • Relationship Building: Experience building trust and collaboration with movement leaders, government officials, funders, and peer intermediaries.
  • Leadership: Ability to mentor staff, foster teamwork, and cultivate an environment rooted in anti-oppressive practice.
  • Public Engagement: Confidence and skill in presenting to diverse, multiracial audiences, including at national forums.
  • Strategic Thinking: Strong critical thinking, curiosity, problem-solving, and systems thinking skills.
  • Operational Skills: Familiarity with grant management, contracts, budgeting, and organizational systems.

Qualifications and Experience
  • At least 8 years of experience in racial equity policy advocacy, government practice, or movement-building/organizing/campaigns with a demonstrated ability to connect community-rooted strategies to policy change.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the systemic causes of racial inequity and their intersections with other forms of oppression (political, economic, cultural, environmental, and more) as they relate to public policy.
  • Strong understanding of governance structures across local, state, and federal levels, including:
  • How public policy is made and implemented
  • Public finance mechanisms
  • Systems of public participation and community engagement
  • Networks of community-based advocacy
  • Role of public institutions and national intermediaries.
  • Proven experience in strategic thinking and planning to foster collaboration, demonstrate impact, and strengthen democratic practice.
  • Demonstrated success in project and time management across multiple, complex initiatives.
  • Deep experience designing and facilitating multiracial, cross-sector groups, with a focus on building democratic decision-making and shared values/priorities.
  • Track record of working in teams and collaborations that actively challenge systems of oppression and model equity-centered practice.

Additional Information
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

How to Apply
External Applicants: To apply for this position, please click the link below. To ensure full consideration, please be sure to include both a cover letter and resume with your application.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Race Forward is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Race Forward will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources at HRSupport@RaceForward.org.
EEO Statement
Race Forward provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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