Job Tag: Law/Policy

The Policy Research Associate will support the evaluation, prioritization and advancement of state and local policies that can provide effective and scalable contributions to the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices and water quality improvements across the country, primarily though not exclusively at the state level. They will work with interdisciplinary teams to identify, compile, and research promising water policy interventions, develop legislative or administrative solutions for those interventions, and work with government relations professionals and others to implement those solutions at the state or federal level. The Research Associate will help identify and foster relationships with third-party contractors, including consultants, other NGOs, universities, among others to build TNC’s policy research capabilities.

Responsibilities & Scope

May supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.

Financial responsibility to complete projects appropriately and assist with budget development and meeting fundraising goals for local and worldwide conservation.

Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.

Works within scope of program’s strategic goals.

Provides research and policy analysis in support of legislative and/or policy priorities.

May aid with preparation of program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.

Influences the outcome of policy and/or corporate initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels.

Develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and/or industry.

Work independently, working with supervisor as needed.

May require occasional domestic travel for multi-day retreats, meetings, and conferences

May work long/flexible hours as needed to coordinate with staff and partners across the US or region.

This is a full-time, 2-year grant-funded position with the possibility of extension based on continued grant funding. Working location is remote from a home office within the continental United States.

Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 3 years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Fluency in English
Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.
Experience with legislative or policy initiatives at the state level.
Experience presenting to and communicating with government or corporate staff and/or program leadership.
Experience working with partners and government agencies.
Desired Qualifications:
Juris Doctor Degree or Master’s Degree in Public Policy or related field.
Experience drafting legislation and negotiating with interested parties.
Experience developing or implementing federal or state policies, including funding/grant programs.
Experience with programs, laws and stakeholders who engage on agriculture, water and land-use policy related work in the United States.

Salary Range: $60,000 – $85,000

At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of interdependence. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice – a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature.

Scope: The Legislative Director builds the Chapter’s power and influence through delivery of legislative advocacy efforts. Maintains governmental and political contacts, evaluates legislation, makes strategic recommendations related to legislation, and lobbies at the state and local level. This is a hybrid position that requires frequent in-person meetings as well as in-state travel.
Job activities include but are not limited to:

Legislative Strategy. Plans, coordinates, and implements the Chapter’s legislative strategies as approved by the Chapter Legislative Committee. Writes and implements work plans for legislative campaigns and coordinates with staff and volunteers to develop campaign goals and tactics that will deliver policy wins in alignment with the Chapter’s priorities. Collects and maintains legislative data, evaluates legislative strategies, reports campaign outcomes to the Chapter Director, and makes recommendations on adjusting organizing strategy as needed.

Legislative Lobbying. Builds and maintains relationships with elected officials and legislative staff. Coordinates with groups and partners in order to rally support/opposition for bills, initiatives, laws, or resolutions. Monitors, studies, and researches proposed legislation to determine possible effects on the environment and makes appropriate recommendations to the Legislative Committee. Confers with legislators and officials to emphasize merits or weaknesses of specific bills to influence passage, defeat, or amendment of measure, or introduction of legislation that defend and advance environmental protection. In consultation with the Legislative Chair and contract lobbyist, prepares for legislative hearings and meetings. Ensures compliance with state and federal law and files lobbyist reports.

Policy Messaging & Communications. Works with Sierra Club staff and coalition partners to develop a consistent, clear state policy and legislative message that is being communicated to the public, relevant communities, and stakeholders. Tracks legislative proceedings to ensure proper messaging and leads rapid response strategy. Write legislative briefs and works with communications staff to develop one-pagers, talking points, and policy toolkits.

Grassroots Mobilization. Manages and implements legislative mobilization efforts including but not limited to: indirect lobbying, direct-to-target messaging, coalition events, SMS, and phone banking. Designs and facilitates legislative training for volunteers and manages in-district lobbying volunteer programs. Plans and coordinates meetings between members and elected officials to discuss legislative issues and proposals and allow for officials to hear and consider member concerns. Convenes coalition spaces, meetings, and events in coordination with partners to plan mobilization opportunities, activations, and events

Representation. Represents Sierra Club to elected officials, the public, in coalition meetings, legislative meetings, and events. Serves as Sierra Club spokesperson to media outlets and promotes volunteer and partner organization media exposure as needed.

Collaboration with Committees. Writes legislative scorecard with Legislative Committee, works with Political Committee on endorsements, and serves as staff lead for Coordinated Campaign work. Is staff support on committees (Legislative, Clean Energy, Transportation, Wildlands, and Political)

Manage Legislative Staff. Hires, manages and supports legislative staff, including: contract lobbyists and legislative interns. Manages hiring processes and executes contracts in alignment with the chapter’s budget and priorities. Establishes performance objectives and expectations, and evaluates accomplishments and effectiveness. Tracks grant deliverables, progress and performance and, when necessary, helps course correct and respond to challenges.

Advance Georgia Chapter’s Cultural Transformation Goals. Supports implementation of the Chapter’s efforts to cultivate an environment that benefits from a broad coalition of identities reflecting the richness of cultures across Georgia. Seeks and creates opportunities to affirm the belonging of partners and members through political and legislative work.

Miscellaneous. Travel is required for staff meetings, volunteer group meetings, statewide legislative functions, and other meetings and events deemed relevant to the duties of the job. Meetings and other work outside of regular business hours, including weekends and evenings is required. Heavier workloads may occur as a result of deadlines and during peak activity periods.

The successful candidate must demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:

Subject matter expertise. Substantial subject matter expertise in environmental policy, political science, or both. Prior experience and effectiveness in lobbying. Clear understanding and knowledge of the legislative and political process.

Team Leadership. Prior experience and/or demonstrated ability in developing, training, and coaching teams of staff and volunteers in achieving shared goals. Experience in organizational conflict resolution and committed communication skills. Ability to address and resolve conflicts within the organization effectively, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Relevant experience. Must have experience working as a lobbyist. Must have experience with Georgia state-wide and/or local politics.

Strong analytical skills. Ability and willingness to conduct strategic outreach. Successful candidates will show a strong desire to engage in collaboration, conduct outreach, and build networks throughout the organization and the state.

Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and clearly both verbally and in writing.

Committed to evolution.You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility. And you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.

Uplifting and additive. You see mistakes as opportunities for growth; problems as catalysts for solutions, and inspire others along the journey. You carry a constructive approach, can-do attitude, a sense of humor, and authentic kindness wherever you go.

The strongest candidates will also demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:

A deep knowledge and understanding of Georgia’s unique legislative and political landscape.

Experience and a deep understanding of the rules, laws, and guidelines as they relate to political and lobbying work in Georgia, both advocacy and electoral.

Can recognize where work needs to be done and fill the gaps. Self-motivated; can work independently as well as part of a team.

Working knowledge of operations, budget management, and grant funding.

Fast learner who can quickly absorb, distill, and communicate to diverse audiences new and often complex information

Compensation: $86,000 annually

Friends of the Everglades is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to preserve, protect and restore the only Everglades in the world. We were founded in 1969 by Marjory Stoneman Douglas, a journalist, equal-rights activist and author who wrote the seminal book The Everglades: River of Grass. Our growing team is passionate about protecting what remains of the Greater Everglades ecosystem.

Position Summary:

This is a Florida-based remote position that requires travel to our Stuart, FL office approximately twice per month. We will prioritize candidates based in the South Florida region (Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties), but we welcome applications from qualified candidates who reside elsewhere in the 16-county Greater Everglades region or who are willing to relocate to the 16-county region.

The Science & Policy Analyst, reporting to the Policy Director, develops and curates scientific knowledge to inform Friends of the Everglades’ (FOE) policy positions and advocacy. The Analyst reviews and synthesizes scientific data, studies, and reports; authors white papers and briefing materials; and attends seminars, workshops, and meetings relevant to Friends’ mission. The role tracks environmental conditions and water quality trends, and collaborates with FOE’s science advisors, conservation partners, government officials, agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure policy recommendations are grounded in sound science.

This position works under the direction and coordination of the Policy Director, providing research (including legislative tracking) and technical input that strengthens Friends’ policy positions and communications.

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in a physical, biological, or environmental science or engineering field, or a bachelor’s degree combined with a science-related master’s degree
Ability to read, evaluate, and synthesize scientific literature and monitoring data ● Strong writing skills, with the ability to explain technical findings to non-scientists ● Comfort with engaging a wide range of stakeholders
Working knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes

Preferred

Advanced degree in a relevant field
2+ years of relevant experience in scientific research, environmental science, policy, or advocacy (paid, volunteer, internship, fellowship, or graduate research experience all count) ● Familiarity with Everglades restoration issues (CERP, Lake Okeechobee management schedule, water quality standards)
Experience working with state or federal agencies
Experience with data analysis or GIS tools

Salary Range and Benefits:

Full-time, salaried
$60-70k, commensurate with experience
Remote with some travel reimbursement
Healthcare coverage, generous PTO, 401(k), paid holidays

As the Policy Manager, Central Region you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping advance the goals of USGBC’s Advocacy & Policy Team. In this role, you’ll take ownership of our state and local advocacy strategy in 20 (+/-) states across the midwestern and southern U.S., driving key initiatives such as engaging policymakers, influencing green building policy, championing the outcomes of green building policy, managing external relationships, and amplifying impact through communications efforts in alignment with our mission and strategic goals.

You’ll report to the State & Local Advocacy Associate Director and be part of a cross-functional team environment where your contributions will help shape impactful outcomes. You’ll work closely with teams like Communications, Market Transformation and Development, and may regularly partner with community leaders and members to elevate policy opportunities, promote LEED and sustainability, and influence state and local legislation.

The expectation is that the Policy Manager, with support and supervision, will build and maintain a strong understanding of relevant building decarbonization and community resilience policy, including the political dynamics and stakeholder positions for priority projects, and proactively identify and implement tasks to advance projects.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and refine from time to time an advocacy strategy for USGBC and LEED at the state and local levels, for review and approval; currently planned as: AL, AR, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, NE, OH, OK, TN, TX and WI. Lead implementation of the approved strategy and priority projects, determined with supervisor.
Track, analyze, and respond to green building policy developments in legislatures, agencies, and local governments
Represent USGBC in advocacy coalitions, policy roundtables, and strategic forums
Build and maintain a strong network of state and local policymakers and USGBC allies to advance policy goals
Educate elected officials and agency staff through meetings, briefings, events, and lobbying efforts
Facilitate inclusion of government officials in USGBC events, such as LEED tours and plaque ceremonies
Develop subject matter expertise in a relevant policy area and contribute to briefs and articles
Collaborate with internal teams and at times with contracted consultants to monitor and respond to threats and opportunities
Coordinate with the Communications Director to develop and place policy-related content
Serve as a local spokesperson and support member for public relations activities and events
Support team’s Federal policy activities in assigned states, as requested

Experience

At least 4 to 7 years of experience managing state or local advocacy or policy.
Demonstrated experience communicating about public policy issues preferred
Experience across multiple jurisdictions and with nonprofit or government entities preferred
Federal government or policy experience may be considered relevant to meet experience requirements

Education

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
Preferred fields of study: Public Policy, Political Science, Environmental Science, Energy, Engineering

Technology/System(s)

Microsoft Suite
Experience with legislative tracking platforms are a plus but not required

Skills

Policy monitoring, research and analysis
Advocacy campaign planning and implementation
Relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills
Excellent written and verbal communication, including public speaking
Strong attention to detail and follow-through
Strategic thinking, entrepreneurial, proactive, and adaptable mindset

Certifications

LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred (or willingness to obtain LEED GA within 12 months)

Salary Range: $80,000.00 To $100,000.00 Annually

Pacific Environment is a nonprofit organization dedicated to confronting our most urgent environmental issues by connecting local and global movements, catalyzing policy change, and inspiring action for the benefit of people and our planet. Together, we promote a healthy climate, reduce pollution, and conserve biodiversity for an equitable and thriving future.

Position

Pacific Environment seeks an experienced Federal Policy Director to lead the organization’s federal government affairs strategy on maritime shipping issues. This role is the organization’s principal advocate before Congress and federal agencies — including the U.S. Coast Guard, Maritime Administration (MARAD), Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), EPA, and Department of Transportation — on policy priorities such as vessel emissions and fuel standards, port and vessel infrastructure investment, supply chain resilience, and maritime workforce and safety standards.

The Federal Policy Director will build and maintain relationships with congressional offices and committee staff, track and analyze relevant legislation and rulemakings, represent the organization in coalitions and public forums, and translate technical maritime policy into actionable advocacy strategy. This is a senior externally facing role requiring deep familiarity with the federal legislative and regulatory process and credibility with maritime policy stakeholders.

Qualifications
Required

5–10+ years of federal government affairs, legislative, or regulatory experience, ideally including maritime, transportation, energy, or environmental policy.
Demonstrated relationships with congressional offices, committee staff, and/or relevant federal agencies (Coast Guard, MARAD, FMC, EPA, DOT).
Strong understanding of the federal legislative process, appropriations cycle, and administrative rulemaking.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting testimony, letters, public comments, and policy materials for non-expert audiences.
Track record of representing an organization credibly in coalitions and with external stakeholders.
Ability to work independently in a remote/hybrid environment while regularly meeting with congressional and agency offices in Washington, D.C.
Bachelor’s degree required.
Commitment for climate action, with a demonstrated ability to think creatively and identify innovative opportunities to advance campaign goals.

Preferred

Prior experience on Capitol Hill, in a federal agency, or in maritime/shipping industry government affairs.
Familiarity with transportation, clean energy, maritime decarbonization, clean fuels, or vessel emissions policy.
Existing network within maritime trade associations, port authorities, or environmental/labor coalitions.
Experience with defensive advocacy (protecting existing law, funding, or regulatory authority from rollback), not solely proactive policy advocacy.

Salary Range: $105,000 – $115,000 a year

Since 1969, the Environmental Law Institute (ELI) has played a pivotal role in shaping the fields of environmental law, policy, and management, domestically and abroad. We are an internationally recognized, non-partisan research and education center working to strengthen environmental protection by improving law and governance worldwide.

Since 1999, ELI has annually awarded a prestigious law fellowship. Past law fellows have gone on to judicial clerkships, environmental and human rights organizations, academia, government agencies, law firms, and more.

We are currently offering a one-year fellowship position with the possibility of extension to two years. The fellowship is an entry-level professional legal position for candidates who have graduated from a J.D. program at an accredited U.S. law school (to include candidates who pursued an LLM following their J.D. and/or have held another temporary clerkship or fellowship since graduating). The position is available immediately.

The Public Interest Environmental Law Fellow works closely with other ELI attorneys and professionals, including our U.S. and international partners, to advance environmental protection and the rule of law across the U.S. and around the world. The fellow’s work frequently requires considering how environmental protection is affected by other areas of law and policy that are related to environment and society (e.g., energy law, administrative law, land use law, human rights law, tax law).

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

The law fellow is expected to assume substantial responsibility and will work collaboratively with other ELI professional staff in a team approach. Assignments include legal and public policy research, writing, and collaboration across all substantive ELI program areas. More specifically, the Public Interest Environmental Law Fellow:

Analyzes existing legal and public policy tools and crafts innovative approaches to advance environmental policy in multiple U.S. and international settings;
Works with ELI staff and other professionals to develop and implement projects and programs consistent with ELI’s mission;
Represents the Institute publicly as needed to communicate and foster specific ELI programs and projects;
Assists in developing and facilitating training activities and educational programs (and may be asked to make public presentations from time to time);
Coordinates the work of ELI Research Associates and/or Research & Policy Interns on tasks related to specific projects and programs (but does not formally supervise them).

QUALIFICATIONS

The fellowship hiring process is rigorous and competitive. Applicants must have a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited U.S. law school, a top academic record, superior legal research and writing skills, and 0-2 years of experience in environmental law and/or policy. Law review or equivalent journal experience is preferred; foreign language skills are a plus.

Other skills needed include, e.g.:

Broad knowledge of and experience in environmental, energy, and/or natural resource law and policy
Deep understanding of how the U.S. constitution, statutes, regulations, and judge-made common law are made, function, and interact at federal and state levels.
Excellent skills in policy and legal research, analytical writing, and verbal communication
Proficiency with standard office software, including Microsoft Office
Ability to be on-site in our DC office 2 days a week (we are open to the possibility of remote work for the right candidate)
Demonstrated ability to:
Represent ELI publicly in a manner consistent with our mission and values;
Contribute to projects effectively and efficiently while producing high-quality deliverables;
Collaborate effectively with others;
Establish and adhere to deadlines;
Effectively manage multiple projects; and
Establish priorities with moderate supervision.

Work at the Environmental Law Institute is collaborative by nature, and the law fellow must be able to interact in a professional, inclusive manner with coworkers and external partners that have different perspectives and backgrounds.

Compensation: The annual compensation for this position is $68,500 – $69,000