Job Description

Overview Community Relations & Outreach Specialist, Criminal Law & Justice Center (6298U), Berkeley Law - #79269 About UC Berkeley At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff. We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan. UC Berkeley provides space for supportive colleague communities via employee resource groups and supports professional development. Departmental Overview The Criminal Law & Justice Center (CLJC) serves as a vital hub for advancing criminal justice reform, policy research, and practical legal advocacy. Through the commitment imprinted in our programs, we bridge academic research with real-world impact, engaging in critical analysis of criminal justice policies while providing direct support to communities affected by the criminal legal system. Our work spans from supporting empirical research on indigent defense systems and access to justice to developing evidence-based policy recommendations and fostering student engagement in criminal justice advocacy. The continued trust and support of our donors has been instrumental in enabling our mission and affirming the importance of our work in this field. Position Summary Serving as a vital bridge between academic research and community advocacy, the Community Relations & Outreach Specialist will connect CLJC's scholarly work with real-world impact, amplifying the voices of those directly impacted by the criminal justice system. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of criminal justice reform while helping to shape the future of legal education and advocacy. Working under the management of the Executive Director and in coordination with the Program Policy Analyst, this role will implement community engagement strategies that strengthen connections between CLJC's research and impacted communities. The First Review Date for this job is: 08/04/2025. Responsibilities Implements community engagement programs designed to connect with currently/formerly incarcerated and other key constituencies of institutional programs. Constituencies may include the general public, students, alumni, social workers, government officials' staff, and community organizations. Supports ongoing research and advocacy efforts through court watching to document the realities of the legal system by recording data, gathering personal stories, identifying trends, and highlighting systemic issues. Presents observations and findings to the Executive Director and CLJC Team. Tracks legislation, ordinances, and regulations relevant to criminal justice reform; maintains files and lists of key external constituencies. Coordinates meeting and event logistics between CLJC, community organizations, and other outside constituencies. Prepares and assists in preparing written and visual materials for community outreach and education. Performs other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications Knowledge of basic concepts and principles of building and maintaining effective relations with a variety of communities and constituencies. Basic knowledge of criminal justice institutions, reform movements, and community advocacy approaches. Organizational skills including ability to meet prescribed deadlines; event planning skills. Written, verbal and interpersonal skills, including tact and political acumen to effectively represent the institution to a variety of constituencies. Analytical and critical thinking skills. Strong attention to detail. Strong computer skills, including experience using Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and video conferencing platforms. Ability to learn new computer systems and software programs. Basic knowledge of public policy and the legislative process. Strong understanding of bridging academic institutions with directly impacted communities. Ability to navigate and effectively communicate with both community and institutional spaces with authenticity and professionalism. Demonstrated ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment within UC Berkeley. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage with individuals from varied backgrounds. Education/Training Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training. Preferred Qualifications Experience with community organizing, advocacy, or direct service in criminal justice contexts. Experience with the criminal justice system and/or connections to justice-impacted communities. Salary & Benefits For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the UC Berkeley Compensation & Benefits website. The University provides a reasonable estimate of the compensation range, and salary offers are determined based on candidate qualifications and experience. The budgeted hourly range for this position is $31.88 - $37.45. Contract Details This is a 1-year, full-time (40 hours/week), contract appointment eligible for UC benefits with potential extension. This is a non-exempt, biweekly-paid position. How To Apply To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter. Other Information This is not a visa opportunity. This position offers up to 20% remote work. Arrangements are made with the supervisor and may change. Conviction History Background This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley hires people with conviction histories and reviews information in the context of job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check. Misconduct Disclosure The following Misconduct Disclosure requirement applies: The final candidate must disclose any misconduct findings or ongoing proceedings within the last seven years as a condition of employment, per UC policies on misconduct. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California, Berkeley

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