Description
Sunrise Movement is a progressive 501 (c) (4) organization advocating for political action on climate change in the United States. When launched in 2017, the movement's goal was to elect proponents of renewable energy in the 2018 midterm elections, first in the Democratic primaries and then in the general election held on November 6, 2018.
The Sunrise Movement is hiring a full-time, remote Political Director (who must reside in or relocate to Washington, D.C.). This senior leader will serve on the Senior Leadership Team and Campaign Team, reporting to the Executive Director,
to set national campaign, political, and electoral strategies to build support for the Green New Deal.
Overview
Salary: $75,000 – $95,000 annually (depending on experience), plus a special metro/micro city allowance.
Job Type: Full-time, Exempt (Non-union eligible).
Location: Remote (Must live in or relocate to Washington, D.C.).
Application Deadline: Internal deadline is Monday, November 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM ET.
Travel: Frequent (1–2 times per month for 5–15 days).
Benefits: 100% paid health, dental, and vision premiums; unlimited paid vacation; 401(k) options.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership: Develop national political, partnership, legislative, and electoral strategies that adapt to shifting political conditions.
Movement & Coalition Building: Design campaigns that resonate with working-class, Black, and brown communities. Form alliances with racial and economic justice groups.
Relationship Management: Hold primary relationships with elected officials, political campaigns, progressive movement partners, and internal Sunrise hubs.
Communications & Press: Co-lead narrative direction with the communications team and serve as an organizational spokesperson to the public and press.
Management & Compliance: Directly manage the Electoral Director, oversee the political budget, and collaborate with operations to ensure adherence to electoral and non-profit laws.
Requirements & Qualifications
Experience: 5+ years in issue-based and electoral campaigns, including at least one cycle of competitive Congressional, Presidential, or state/local campaign experience (or legislative/lobbying movement work).
Core Capabilities: Proven project, budget, and personnel management skills; coalition-building prowess; and compliance knowledge regarding elections/lobbying.
Values Alignment: A strong belief in the power of grassroots base-building and youth- or member-led movement models.
Preferred (Nice to Haves): Pre-existing relationships with progressive elected officials/organizations, and a strong background in climate, energy, or economic policy.