Common Justice develops and advances solutions to violence that transforms the lives of those harmed and foster racial equity without relying on incarceration. Locally, we operate the first alternative-to-incarceration and victim-service programs in the United States to focus on violent felonies in adult courts. Nationally, we leverage the lessons from our direct service to transform the justice system through partnerships, advocacy, and elevating the experience and power of those most impacted. Rigorous and hopeful, we build practical strategies to hold people accountable for harm, break cycles of violence, and secure safety, healing, and justice for survivors and their communities.

Common Justice is seeking a community organizer to help win transformative racial justice campaigns grounded in the leadership and lived experience of those most impacted by violence.

about the opportunity:

The ideal candidate should design and execute effective campaign strategies that build a strong base, develop leaders, and center the voices and wisdom of people directly impacted by interpersonal, community, and state violence. This person is deeply aligned with Common Justice’s mission, thrives in a fast paced and evolving environment, and brings a collaborative spirit and a great sense of humor to work. This role will report to the Director of Organizing.

Position Location: New York City. Brooklyn, NY preferred

Primary Responsibilities:

Base building and membership

• Work with the Director of Organizing and Common Justice’s Civic Engagement Team to recruit and retain a member base made up of those most impacted by violence, including survivors and those who have caused harm.
• Maintain regular communication with members and partners to support engagement and trust-building.

Leadership development

• Facilitate regular membership meetings that are informed by members’ insights and lived experiences.
• Create and facilitate engaging workshops that equip members and allies with civic education, narrative tools, and a clear understanding of campaign goals.
• Identify and develop leadership among the member base.

Campaign development and execution

• Work with members to identify local and state issues that impact survivors of violence and formerly incarcerated people.
• Work closely with members to develop innovative and creative strategies to advance campaign goals and objectives.
• Track progress and outcomes of civic engagement and campaign work.

Visibility and public engagement

• Coordinate the participation of members on panels, speaking engagements, and press interviews.
• Coordinate local actions with members and partners.

Coalition and movement work

• Support the work of grassroots organizations advancing issues that Common Justice’s members care about.
• Represent Common Justice at coalition meetings, when appropriate.

Work schedule

• This is a hybrid position that requires at least one day per week in the office, along with frequent evening and occasional weekend meetings and events to support outreach and base-building.

job requirements:

• A minimum of three years organizing, community engagement, and/or civic engagement work;
• A familiarity with and commitment to the issues that are central to Common Justice’s work, including criminal justice reform, ending mass incarceration, and the rights and needs of survivors of violence;
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, and build a strong base of members;
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot issues as they arise, make contingency plans, and shift plans as needed;
• Willingness to work with local partners;
• Strong critical thinking skills and ability to think creatively and innovatively;
• Demonstrated commitment to community and/or labor organizing;
• Demonstrated commitment to working with a racial equity lens both internally and externally;
• Willingness to travel as needed;
• Experience with online organizing and CRM systems preferred;
• A good sense of humor.

To Apply:

The salary for this position is $72,960.42 per year and is non-negotiable. We offer a competitive benefits package, including medical and dental coverage, life and long-term disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and generous paid time off.

Please submit application, resume, and dates of availability below.

Common Justice is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, prior record of arrest or conviction, citizenship status, or current employment status. Common Justice values diverse experiences, including educational background and justice system involvement. We depend on a diverse staff to carry out our mission.