Job Tag: Law/Policy

Founded in 1936, the National Wildlife Federation (NWF or Federation) is America’s largest and most trusted grassroots conservation organization with 52 state/territorial affiliates and more than six million members and supporters, including hunters, anglers, gardeners, birders, hikers, campers, paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. The Federation’s mission is to unite all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in our rapidly changing world through science-based programming focused on conserving wildlife, restoring habitats and waterways, expanding outdoor opportunities, connecting children with nature, and addressing the causes and consequences of climate change.

To support our mission, NWF is seeking a Wildlife Policy Specialist to support its Gulf Program, a longstanding effort to restore the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, build back coastal land in Louisiana, and promote coastal resilience across the Gulf states for the benefit of the Gulf’s people and wildlife. The Wildlife Policy Specialist will be responsible for analyzing and communicating the impacts of various projects, programs, and policies on wildlife in the Gulf region, using best available science. The Wildlife Policy Specialist will identify opportunities to maximize benefits to Gulf wildlife through federal, state, and local programs and decision-making venues, while maintaining consistency with other NWF priorities. The Wildlife Policy Specialist will report to the Gulf Program’s Senior Manager for Science Policy, and will work with the program’s Director and team members (including staff engaged in the Restore the Mississippi River Delta coalition), NWF’s Offshore Wind Energy Team, NWF’s Gulf state affiliate organizations, NGO coalitions, and other stakeholders to advocate for sound ecological restoration projects and programs.

The Wildlife Policy Specialist will promote NWF’s wildlife, coastal resilience, and restoration priorities and will represent NWF in meetings and communications with decision-makers, the media, donors, and coalition partners, as well as in public meetings, hearings, and conferences. The person in this position will advance the National Wildlife Federation’s values of collaboration, empowerment, inclusivity, mindfulness, and mission-focused work.

This position is located in the Tampa Bay area.

Principal Duties (major areas of responsibility):

Coastal Resilience and Outreach. Identify high-priority restoration needs and effective, ecosystem-scale restoration opportunities for the Gulf. Cultivate partnerships with conservation NGOs and other stakeholders as appropriate (commercial and recreational fishing, tourism, local governments, etc.) who would benefit from ecosystem restoration projects and activities. Serve as a leader for outreach and engagement in the Tampa Bay Coastal Master Plan process.
Wildlife Science and Policy. Identify key issues related to the health of Gulf wildlife, with emphasis on: species or populations especially dependent on healthy Gulf ecosystems; threatened, endangered or imperiled wildlife populations; keystone species; and iconic species that help raise public awareness for NWF priorities. In collaboration with the Senior Manager for Science Policy, program staff, and NWF state affiliates as appropriate, identify priority wildlife issues to pursue; develop and implement strategies to benefit Gulf wildlife; and develop materials to promote those priorities. Provide wildlife expertise and advice to the Restore the Mississippi River Delta coalition, NWF’s offshore wind team, and to other campaigns and coalitions as strategic.
Technical Information Gathering and Dissemination. Monitor current science on Gulf restoration, Gulf wildlife, and climate change and projections. Gather and interpret scientific and technical information pertinent to the Gulf Program for program staff and other audiences. Integrate science into NWF campaign messaging. Work with the Senior Manager for Science Policy as well as policy, outreach and communications staff and NGO partners to develop and disseminate NWF campaign messaging. Assist the Senior Manager for Science Policy in communicating programmatic objectives and achievements to the broader NWF organization, regional and national program staff, leadership, and philanthropy staff, and seek out opportunities for collaboration with other NWF programs.
Advocacy and Communications. Represent NWF at public meetings and other meetings related to NWF’s interests, provide testimony at relevant public hearings, attend and present at conferences, and provide interviews to news media on issues related to Gulf wildlife and restoration. Work with program staff to disseminate program messaging to decision-makers, opinion leaders, the news media, NWF constituents, and the general public.
Fundraising. Assist the Gulf Program’s Senior Manager for Science Policy, the Gulf Director, the Gulf Program Manager, and philanthropy staff in communicating the Gulf Program’s objectives and accomplishments to prospective and current donors, foundations, and other institutional funders. Assist in the cultivation of current and potential donors, and the drafting of proposals and grant reports.

Qualifications:

College degree in natural resources, marine sciences, biological sciences, environmental studies or related field
At least three years of successful job experience in biological science, conservation, community outreach, or non-profit fields
Demonstrated success engaging with diverse stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to develop relationships with a broad range of constituencies
Coalition and partnerships experience preferred
Experience and knowledge of Gulf Coast wildlife and ecosystems
Self-starter with demonstrated ability to work both independently and as a team player
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to develop trusting relationships with diverse constituencies and communities
Strong prioritization skills and ability to work strategically in a fast-paced environment with many partners
Strong written and oral communication skills
Facility with all aspects of Microsoft Office, Outlook, Zoom, and Google Docs

Travel Requirements:

There will be significant regional and national travel in this role, and up to 15 overnight trips in a year. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and a reliable form of transportation for such travel.

Physical Job Requirements:

Ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards in home office environment
Ability to lift and carry parcels, packages and other items up to 25 pounds
Ability to occasionally work in the field, walking terrain, riding in boats and small planes
Ability to drive a vehicle and travel via plane

Compensation:

Salary is commensurate with experience, in the range of $67,000 – $73,000

The Associate Attorney will support The Wilderness Society’s (TWS’s) priorities related to public lands conservation and climate change. The Associate Attorney will serve as an integral member of the Legal Team in the Federal Policy Department, assisting in administrative record building, government agency decision-making processes, and policy interpretation and advocacy. The position will also assist in managing litigation from an in-house counsel role by conducting research, supporting case management, and providing legal expertise to various campaigns and cross-functional teams. This is a valuable entry-level position with potential growth opportunities at a leading public lands conservation organization.

This position plays an important role in supporting an inclusive organizational culture that is grounded in trust and accountability to shared goals and outcomes. TWS has made diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic priorities for the organization, and the Associate Attorney will integrate these priorities throughout our legal work. Across our team, we aspire to be campaign oriented, nimble, collaborative, innovative, transparent, and supportive of staff – our greatest asset.

(Note: TWS does not represent itself in court but actively supports and partners with the attorneys who represent us in litigation)

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Provide legal, policy, and land use planning support to help realize TWS’s strategic priorities, including protecting national public lands, reducing greenhouse gas emissions stemming from energy development on public lands, and elevating the needs of local communities in relation to public lands.
Conduct legal research and draft legal memoranda to inform litigation strategies, policy development and defense, and other Federal Policy Department efforts, with a focus on key environmental and public land laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Federal Land Policy and Management Act, National Forest Management Act, and Mineral Leasing Act.
Track and engage in federal onshore oil and gas lease sales and permitting processes.
Assist in developing and drafting technical comments as part of federal agency policy, planning, leasing, or project-level decision-making processes, along with white papers, fact sheets, press releases, and briefings.
Provide expertise in law and policy to TWS staff and other conservation organizations to advance TWS priorities.
Work collaboratively with a broad cross section of TWS staff and external partners, and participate in coalitions and campaigns as appropriate, including working with communities, Tribes, and grassroots organizations.
Stay current on public land and related case law.
Help ensure that TWS legal defense and litigation efforts center equity, inclusion, and affected communities.
Assist TWS communications staff to ensure legally accurate public messaging and communications for priority issues.
Co-manage TWS law clerk program, including recruitment, onboarding, supervision, project management, feedback, and mentoring.
Perform other related duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

Law degree and bar admission required.
Minimum of 1 year of legal work experience.
Excellent analytical, legal research, and legal writing skills.
Exceptional at verbal and written communication.
Basic understanding of administrative law, as well as an interest in learning about and developing expertise in public land law, policies, and issues.
Track record working successfully in teams representing a rich mix of talent, backgrounds, and perspectives – across race and gender.
Ability to identify legal and policy issues in reviewing federal agency proposals and actions.
Organized, accurate, and detail oriented.
Ability to work well independently and as part of diverse teams, and able to keep a level head when responding to rapid changes in campaign strategies and plans.
Passion for public interest, social and environmental justice, and effecting positive change; and eagerness to learn about, develop, and implement legal tools for combating climate change, protecting public lands, and centering justice and equity in conservation.
Interest in working collaboratively and inclusively on cross-functional teams and multi-disciplinary campaigns.
Willingness to travel for short durations.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of this position, and it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of experience, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position.

The starting salary range for this position is $70,000-$75,000 depending on location. The preferred location for this role is Washington, DC. Other TWS locations and remote locations may be considered.

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

MDAR: The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources mission is to cultivate a robust and equitable agricultural economy, promote a safe and resilient food system, and preserve a healthy environment for Massachusetts farmers, animals, and consumers.

Description: Environmental Justice Intern

The Environmental Justice Internship will work to support MDAR’s Environmental Justice Team in implementing the EJ Strategy, with particular projects focusing on farmer support, engagement, language access, and communication to ensure meaningful access to MDAR programs and services.

Responsibilities will include:

Develop program materials with guidance and direction from MDAR’s Environmental Justice Team.
Provide support to farmer engagement efforts, including “EJ Office Hours” for Massachusetts farmers.
Work with MDAR’s Language Access Coordinator to develop materials that help the public understand MDAR’s Language Access Services.
Work with MDAR’s Environmental Justice Outreach Coordinator to develop materials that spotlight the diversity of Massachusetts farmers, food, and agricultural practices.
Other duties and projects as assigned.

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:

Strong communication and writing skills.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to read, understand, and relay relevant information in an engaging and easy to navigate and understand manner to agency staff and key stakeholders.
Experience in writing and communication, specifically outreach materials and other public-facing media.
The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in subjects relating to Environmental Justice and its application to agricultural fields of study.
Creative skills and experience with video or graphics are a plus.

The position is scheduled for June 2-August 15,2025 at approximately 30 hours/week.

Are you passionate about making a positive impact through policy change? Would you like to use your advocacy skills to help reduce energy and water waste and save households money? Join our team and contribute to campaigns for new state-level laws that save energy and water, protect the environment, and cut costs.

The Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), which is housed at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), is seeking a State Policy Advocate. ASAP’s current priority campaigns promote appliance energy and water efficiency and clean lighting standards. In 2025, we are launching a new effort focused on tire efficiency standards.

About ACEEE

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), a nonprofit research organization, develops transformative policies to reduce energy waste and combat climate change. With our independent analysis, we aim to build?a vibrant and equitable economy – one that uses energy more productively, reduces costs, protects the environment, and promotes the health, safety, and well-being of everyone.

Our organizational culture is collaborative and team-oriented with a strong commitment to our mission and an emphasis on results. We strive to help all staff develop professionally and to make ACEEE a flexible, fulfilling, and enjoyable place to work. ACEEE is dedicated to fostering a culture that values all individuals and ensures fairness while incorporating these principles into our research and policy work.
Requirements

Position Description

The state policy advocate is part of a small team working to win specific policy changes (energy and water efficiency standards, clean lighting standards, tire efficiency standards) in targeted states. They report to the ASAP state policy manager but will regularly use sound judgment to make decisions independently. Key responsibilities for this position include:

Lead state-level policy advocacy campaigns in three to five states, working in close coordination with in-state allies.
Identify, recruit, and collaborate with advocacy partners
Build and mobilize coalitions
Become a trusted expert by acquiring substantive knowledge of product efficiency, clean lighting, and tire standards policies and the affected technologies and markets (previous knowledge about these topics is not required).
Provide technical and policy support to policymakers and others
Write fact sheets, testimony, and other educational materials
Testify before legislative committees
Represent ASAP at conferences and meetings
Develop deep and lasting collaborative relationships with key partners, including advocacy groups that represent a range of interests (low-income consumers, environmental justice, business, public health, etc.) as well as state legislators and agency staff.

Expectations

The ideal candidate has a curiosity about energy- and water-saving technologies and policies, and a strong desire to make policy change happen. They will be top-notch listeners who learn quickly, can effectively communicate detailed information to diverse audiences, and are skilled at recognizing and responding to opportunities to make progress toward our goals. They will value collaboration with teammates and external allies and have a strong awareness of and respect for cultural and individual values.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant work experience or master’s degree.
Demonstrated experience with state or federal legislative advocacy campaigns, including working in coalitions and with diverse stakeholders.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including giving presentations.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative and complete tasks independently to achieve goals.
Familiarity with climate, energy, and environmental policies or consumer protection policy frameworks a plus but not required.

Preferred start date: July 1, 2025, or as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

Location: Flexible. This position can be fully remote or based in ACEEE’s Washington DC office, on a full-time or hybrid basis. This position will likely have responsibility for Midwestern and Eastern states, so location in the Eastern or Central time zones is helpful.

Salary: $57,000 to $77,250, commensurate with experience. ACEEE’s generous benefits package includes health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage; a 403(b) retirement plan; transportation and bike share benefits (if located in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area); 3 weeks of vacation in the first year and 4 weeks thereafter, 11 federal holidays and office-wide closure for the week between Christmas to New Year’s. This is a full-time, exempt position.

POSITION SUMMARY
This professional-level position is responsible for helping to develop and implement strategies to ensure that energy projects of all types are developed and sited in ways to avoid unnecessary adverse impacts to imperiled wildlife and habitats. The Senior Energy and Biodiversity Policy Specialist is responsible for advancing Defenders’ conservation mission, strategic plan and conservation priorities. This position collaborates closely with other departments including Government Relations, Biodiversity Law Center, Center for Conservation Innovation, Species Conservation and Coexistence and Communications.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Work with the Energy and Biodiversity team and other staff to develop a set of goals and objectives for advancing Defenders’ energy and biodiversity work.
Collaborate with Defenders’ team of policy experts, attorneys, scientists, lobbyists, communications specialists and field advocates to oppose administration and congressional efforts to eliminate or weaken federal environmental statutes and regulations associated with the push to increase fossil fuel development on federal lands and in federal coastal waters.
Develop Defenders’ positions on legislative and administrative proposals addressing the development and siting of energy projects.
Facilitate internal coordination of Defenders’ existing energy work and interdisciplinary approaches to accomplish goals and objectives.
Participate as the voice for wildlife in private sector efforts to find common ground around energy siting.
Serve as Defenders’ representative on national energy and biodiversity issues to department and agency officials and represent Defenders in public meetings, hearings, press events, conferences, coalitions, and in general communications with public officials, legislators, the media, Defenders’ membership, the donor community, and the general public.

Research, write, and/or supervise the development of policy papers, memos, blogs, reports, websites, action alerts, publications and other products for advocacy purposes, coordinating with other departments as necessary.
Some travel is required for this position

Perform all other work-related duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
Experience: 6 years of relevant experience; 3 years supervisory experience (if applicable)
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Duration

This is a three-year fixed-term position with full benefits and the possibility of extension.
Location

This position is mostly remote but must be based in New York or New Jersey with the ability to come into EDF’s New York office as needed.
Energy Program Overview

The goal of EDF’s Energy Transition Team is to bend the curve on global greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel production and use by 2030, cleanly and equitably. We will achieve this through a defined set of strategies targeted at 1) reducing emissions from fossil fuel production, delivery, and use, and 2) reducing demand for fossil fuels in power generation, transportation, buildings, and industry. To achieve this goal, we seek reforms in law, regulation, and/or business practice through a mix of strategic corporate partnerships, direct engagement with policymakers, and mobilizing investor and public sentiment in favor of change. In formulating and achieving our strategies, we will work in close collaboration with EDF regions, draw on cutting-edge science and rigorous economic and financial analysis, and act on principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion to develop durable solutions.
Overall Function

The Executive Assistant, Energy Transition will provide key administrative, operational, and strategic support to the Senior Vice President (SVP), Energy Transition and Vice President (VP), Energy Transition. Acting as a strategic partner and trusted advisor, this position ensures that senior leaders can focus on driving EDF’s mission while seamlessly managing the complexities of their day-to-day operations. From orchestrating high-level meetings and managing complex travel logistics to handling confidential matters with discretion, the Executive Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring the SVP and VP stay focused on high-priority initiatives. Beyond traditional administrative support, this position offers a front-row seat to strategic decision-making at one of the world’s leading environmental organizations. The EA will interact with senior leaders, board members, donors, and external partners, ensuring smooth communication and execution of high-priority projects.

The Executive Assistant reports to the SVP, Energy Transition with a dotted line to the VP, Energy Transition.
Key Responsibilities

Manage the Senior Vice President’s (SVP) and Vice President’s (VP) complex calendars, anticipating needs and ensuring efficient scheduling, conflict resolution, and prioritization of critical deadlines.
Coordinate and manage requests for meetings, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and availability.
Provide basic technical support for virtual meetings and assist with document organization and information management using internal platforms and databases.
Serve as a key liaison between the SVP/VP and internal and external stakeholders, ensuring seamless communication and coordination.
Participate in advancing EDF DEI goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organizational challenges in alignment with EDF values.
Organize and attend weekly team meetings, prepare agendas, distribute materials, take notes, document action items with clear follow-ups, and prepare clear minutes.
Ensure recurring meetings with direct reports and key staff are scheduled, maintained, and consistent.
Support the planning and execution of events and team retreats, including logistics, venue selection, agenda planning, and coordination of materials.
Assist in preparing for meetings with Board Members, staff, and external stakeholders by securing, organizing, summarizing, and distributing necessary information and materials and briefing the SVP/VP in advance.
Track action items and ensure timely follow-up with stakeholders on outstanding tasks and deliverables from meetings.
Draft, proofread, and edit correspondence, reports, and presentations on behalf of the SVP and VP, including preparing executive briefings, summaries, and talking points.
Monitor and screen incoming emails, calls, and correspondence, flagging urgent matters and routing and responding as appropriate.
Maintain and update key contact lists, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
Coordinate information flow between departments, internal teams, and external partners to facilitate efficient decision-making.
Manage all aspects of travel arrangements, including booking flights, hotels, and ground transportation, resolving all logistical travel issues that arise prior to and during trips, monitoring travel expenses, maintaining budget awareness for travel-related expenditures, and assisting with travel documentation for international travel as needed.
Develop comprehensive travel itineraries, including meeting schedules, time zone considerations, and contingency plans for disruptions.
Prepare and submit monthly expense reports accurately and in compliance with financial policies.
Provide high-level administrative support by collecting and analyzing information, conducting research, and assisting with strategic initiatives.
Proactively identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency in administrative functions.
Support the SVP/VP in maximizing their time and effectiveness through organizational and operational assistance.
Assist in special projects and cross-functional initiatives as needed.
Additional relevant duties as assigned.

Qualifications

5+ relevant years of experience providing administrative support to senior-level leaders in a dynamic, fast-paced environment required. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
Adept at managing a busy senior-level leader’s complex schedule, with strong discernment to maximize their effectiveness.
Demonstrated experience interfacing well with senior-level management, administrative staff, board members, internal and external constituencies, donors, and politicians, including the ability to be tactful and diplomatic in difficult situations.
Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Ability to prioritize workload, respond to rapidly changing priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
Ability to work under pressure while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
Strong attention to detail, as well as organization and time management skills.
Excellent communication, writing, judgment, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make connections between project details and the bigger picture.
Experience coordinating and managing events and projects of varied scale, supporting project timelines and objectives.
Demonstrated proficiency with standard business tools including MS Office, especially Outlook, and comfort with video conferencing technologies.
Strong ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as a part of a multidisciplinary team operating across multiple time zones.
Highly discreet and comfortable handling highly confidential and sensitive information.
Proactive with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to anticipate needs and troubleshoot issues before they escalate.
Ability and willingness to adopt a flexible schedule as needed to support senior-level leaders who may be traveling domestically or internationally.
Ability and willingness to travel, as needed.
Fluency in another language a plus.

Under the direction of the US Country Director, this position executes projects and tasks to further global Program initiatives, implement the Institutional Strategic Plan, and drive policy and advocacy priorities within the US market. A focus of this position will be on formalizing and growing IFAW’s network of grassroots activists and supporters in the United States, raising awareness about IFAW priority issues and mobilizing public support for IFAW’s policy initiatives.

The Program Officer will develop and execute grassroots engagement strategies with a focus on awareness, education, and action. This entails working across Departments to identify strategic Congressional districts, states, cities, and communities for which IFAW would benefit from increased engagement and activism.

In close consultation with the DVP, Digital Marketing and Fundraising, the Program Officer will develop and help execute a digital marketing strategy and plan, helping to create online content to influence public opinion and drive policy change.

Other program and advocacy work may include researching and collating information on conservation issues and public policy, participating in NGO coalitions, drafting outreach materials for target audiences, participating in meetings with the Administration and Congress, and representing Programs and the organization to both internal and external audiences as necessary.

The Program Officer is expected to collect and report data related to monitoring and evaluating US advocacy work, comply with reporting requirements for federal and state lobbying, as applicable, and carry out administrative tasks as needed to fulfill the responsibilities of this role.

Role and Responsibilities

Grassroots Engagement and Digital Strategy (~75%)

Develop a grassroots supporter outreach strategy and plan
Organize and facilitate events, webinars, and community outreach programs to engage and empower supporters to take action on priority issues.
Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, volunteers, activists, and other stakeholders to strengthen grassroots efforts.
Provide training and guidance to IFAW’s grassroots supporters on advocacy tactics, campaign strategies, and issues.
Collect and analyze grassroots campaign feedback to evaluate effectiveness and improve future outreach efforts.
Craft other communications as needed to effectively promote grassroots engagement and advocacy efforts.
Draft email blasts, petitions, actions, and other supporting content to mobilize supporters, promote events, and drive petition signups.
Develop grassroots-related content for relevant social media platforms.
Help create shareable graphics, sample posts, and how-to guides to support online activism and peer-to-peer outreach.
Update and maintain content on relevant advocacy landing pages, petitions, and event pages.
Help create and manage a grassroots database of records within IFAW’s main database; input, track, and analyze grassroots supporter data

Government Affairs (~25%)

Support policy initiatives through activities including but not limited to: direct lobbying; participating in relevant coalitions; legislative, policy, and legal analysis; multi-party negotiations; developing advocacy materials; researching and drafting reports and memos; preparing testimony and public presentations.
Develop knowledge of and keep abreast of relevant conservation and animal welfare issues. Build up working knowledge of, amongst others, relevant international conventions and agreements and scientific knowledge of focus species.
Represent IFAW at relevant meetings and conferences.
Maintain a positive and professional approach when in contact with the media, politicians, representatives from Government, community groups and other NGOs.
Provide information on IFAW US initiatives to colleagues in other IFAW departments e.g. Development, Communications, other Country Offices and Program Departments
Ensure compliance with all external and internal reporting requirements, including tracking lobbying activity and contributing to IFAW’s monitoring and evaluation work and annual reports.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s (B.A./B.S.) degree or equivalent in Natural Resources, Public Policy, Law, Biology, Education, or related discipline preferred. Advanced degree ideal.
2-4 years of relevant experience, such as Capitol Hill or other legislative experience and/or grassroots advocacy organizing
Proven ability to build relationships with diverse communities and mobilize volunteers or constituents.
Experience planning and executing community events, canvasses, phone/text banks, or other advocacy mobilizations.
Experience creating content for online advocacy campaigns: email, landing pages, petitions, social media, and newsletters.
Familiarity with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and advocacy platforms like Blackbaud CRM, Salesforce, Engaging Networks
Understanding of segmentation and targeting using these CRM tools.
Knowledge of federal legislative procedures, and ability to formulate and execute strategies to gain Congressional support and advance legislation
Superior writing skills with the ability to write reports and briefing documents and carry out strategic analyses.
Organized, self-motivated and able to work independently.
Highly effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills and experience working on teams in a multi-task environment.

At IFAW, we aim to create and foster a workforce that reflects and contributes to the diverse, global community in which we work to improve the lives of both animals and people. We are dedicated to fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion so we actively encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Hiring range is $69,000-$83,000 per year

NRDC is a non-profit environmental advocacy organization. We use law, science, and the support of 3.1 million members and online activists to protect the planet’s wildlife and wild places and to ensure the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities. NRDC was founded in 1970 and our people helped write some of America’s bedrock environmental laws, including the Clean Water Act and many of the implementing regulations. Today, our team of more than 700 lawyers, scientists, economists, policy advocates, communications experts, and others work across the United States and the globe from our offices in Beijing; Chicago; New Delhi; New York; San Francisco; Santa Monica; and Washington, D.C.

NRDC is seeking a California Legislative Advocate to work with the Center for Campaigns and Organizing team in either our San Francisco or Sacramento offices.

Position Summary

The California (CA) Legislative Advocate serves as the primary point of contact within NRDC for all state legislative work. This position requires collegial work with NRDC staff and collaboration with other organizations to develop and lead coherent strategic advocacy by the California environmental community. Under guidance from the CA Government Affairs Director and in coordination with the CA Advocacy team, the CA Legislative Advocate leads NRDC’s Sacramento engagement.

Responsibilities

Advise on legislative and state budget strategy in consultation with NRDC program staff and Government Affairs Director.
Lobby state policy makers.
Track bills and legislative hearings. Attend hearings and provide testimony as needed.
Collaborate on ongoing fundraising efforts by preparing donor updates and memos, and attending donor events and meetings, as appropriate.
Advise on NRDC communications to ensure consistent and compelling messages that support state policy objectives.
Serve on internal and external committees and boards as appropriate.
Prepare background briefings and staff training regarding the state legislative process and development of effective advocacy strategies.
Lead coalition of environmental groups advocating in Sacramento. Craft effective messages, prepare coalition letters, and help determine priorities of broader environmental community.
Represent NRDC in California legislative and administrative settings, in consultation with program staff.
Cultivate and strengthen relationships with legislators, administration officials, and staff
Seek cross-programmatic synergies and help shape legislative components of NRDC’s policy campaigns.

Programmatic Duties and Responsibilities

Provide direction on internal and outreach communications regarding legislative activities and campaigns, including e-activism and outreach to diverse constituencies and organizations.
Write California Advocacy material for NRDC publications, board and donor reports and staff updates.
Coordinate meeting requests, logistics, agenda setting and execution of lobbying efforts to advance NRDC’s policy agenda.
Serve as liaison with NRDC affiliates, E2 and donor advocates, advise on advocacy matters and coordinate schedule, messages and logistics for their Sacramento lobby trips. Ensure follow up and ongoing communication with affiliate groups regarding NRDC’s policy agenda in CA.
Craft materials for the press, including blogs, press releases, statements, and background information, in consultation with communications staff.
Collaborate on occasional NRDC engagement on state and local ballot measure campaigns.

Qualifications

Commitment to NRDC’s mission and values.
Minimum 2-4 years’ relevant experience in environmental advocacy or CA legislature.
Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science or similar field.
Thorough knowledge of the California legislative and budget process and political landscape.
Excellent written and oral communications skills
Strong analytical, strategy, and public relations skills with the ability to adjust work priorities and policy portfolio as needed. Demonstrated ability to form relationships, build consensus, develop effective coalitions, and manage collaborative projects.
Strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks and competing priorities under tight timelines.
Ability to prioritize and respond timely to legislators and their staff, administration officials, donors, affiliates, coalition partners, NRDC staff and the public.
Ability to train and guide program staff in navigating the legislative process and CA state government.
Excellent research and analytical skills.
Outstanding problem-solving skills, including the ability to proactively identify obstacles and propose solutions or recommendations to overcome them.
Demonstrated ability to manage projects involving multiple people and deliverables, and to perform or quickly learn new tasks, systems, and technologies.
Ability to prioritize and efficiently execute many tasks, follow institutional procedures, and work independently with meticulous attention to detail.
Passion for politics.
Self-starter.
Competence with and commitment to diversity and inclusion; ability to be an effective partner with diverse colleagues, leaders and partners.
Ability to travel to NRDC U.S. based offices, approximately 10-20% annually
Commitment to NRDC’s mission, values, and DEI principles

The Director, Policy supports Elevate’s mission by ensuring its programs are well-adapted to the policy environment and bringing Elevate’s practical expertise to policy discussions. The Director of Policy develops policy initiatives and advocacy efforts at state and local levels and supports furthering policies at the federal level to support Elevate’s mission. The Director, Policy is responsive to environmental justice issues and communities. The Director, Policy presents, updates, and communicates to all Elevate staff on relevant policy initiatives. The position represents Elevate in key working groups, advisory groups, and relevant policy forums.

The Director, Policy reports to the Sr. Director, Policy. The position is located in Illinois and is currently remote.
Responsibilities

Manage clean energy, state-centered energy and water policy activities in coordination with relevant program teams, policy staff, community partners, and public and elected offices.
Inform program teams of changes to regulatory and legislative requirements for compliance purposes.
Represent Elevate at external policy forums, including in-person meetings, conference calls, and events.
Develop, support, and maintain relationships with policymakers, external stakeholders, and internal customers.
Lead and collaborate within the policy team and across the organization on the development of Elevate’s policy positions.
Serve as an energy policy expert, providing expert opinions as required, and collaborate with Elevate’s water policy and program staff to ensure effective water policy support and representation.
Research policy and industry conditions related to Elevate’s mission.
Draft fact sheets, comments, testimony, and other materials to educate policymakers and stakeholders on Elevate’s positions.
Collaborate with the communications team, policy team, programs, and national strategy teams to document policy wins and develop/support the development of stories, case studies, blogs, etc.
Lead and/or support the development of policy-related content for convenings, trainings, webinars, and other convening, networking, and sharing opportunities.
Effectively communicate Elevate’s mission and policy positions within and outside Elevate.
Draft grant proposals and reports, board reports, presentations, and other deliverables.
Manage interns.
Disseminate policy information internally to Elevate staff.
Manage travel, expense reports, timesheets, and other administrative needs following Elevate processes.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area, master’s preferred, or equivalent work experience.
Minimum of seven (7+) years of experience in policy-related positions with two – four (2-4) years in recent roles with a clean energy or climate-related focus.
Deep commitment to communities that have been historically disinvested and environmental justice communities.
Familiarity with the workings of state, local, and federal government
Demonstrated persistence, initiative, and creativity
Demonstrated ability to work within a team and with people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and political viewpoints
Excellent interpersonal, writing, and oral presentation skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight business travel, and attendance at meetings and events that occur outside of daytime working hours

Compensation
The total compensation for this position includes health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, etc.), defined contribution benefit (401k with contribution), professional development, generous paid time off policies, and a flexible schedule. This is an exempt individual contributor position with a salary range of $110,000 – $125,000, based on experience.

Job Description

Performs intermediate to advanced professional work, focusing on ensuring compliance with state, local, and federal environmental regulations, as well as the County’s Comprehensive Plan. The Environmental Planner collaborates with various stakeholders, provides technical expertise, and may occasionally lead or mentor junior staff members. Work is conducted with a degree of independence and requires specialized knowledge of environmental and planning regulations.

This is an upcoming opportunity opening July 1, 2025
The hiring range for this position is $57,969.60 to $79,726.40 based on experience.
The full salary range for this position is from $57,969.60 to $101,462.40 to provide opportunity for growth and development.

Examples of Duties

Environmental Planning and Studies: Conduct short- and long-term environmental planning studies, focusing on sustainable development, water quality, and land use.

Performs short- and long-range environmental planning studies; serves as staff support to various committees; prepares and maintains studies, graphics, records, and files;
Performs or assists in the development of studies, analyses, and recommendations in connection with the current and long-range physical, social, and economic development of the County;
Gathers, selects, complies, and analyzes data pertaining to environmental characteristics of the area;
Performs field reviews, which may involve walking in fairly rugged terrain;
Analyzes and summarizes existing conditions, derives conclusions, and develops projections;
Reviews subdivision and site plans;
Prepares reports and supports graphic display materials descriptive of research and recommendations;
Serves as staff assistant to various boards and commissions;
Acts as a technical advisor, within field of specialization, to other staff members;
Provides direction to planning technicians;
Reviews subdivision and site plans;

Performs related tasks as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

General knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental and urban planning;
General knowledge of economics, federal, state and local laws pertaining to environmental and water resource quality issues;
General knowledge of grant opportunities and writing;
Some knowledge of recent developments in the field of environmental and water resource management;
Ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information and to prepare technical reports;
Ability to prepare and present technical information clearly and in an interesting manner to lay groups and the public;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with professional colleagues, employees and representatives of other public agencies; ability to plan and supervise the work of technical subordinates.

Education and Experience

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or planning, water resource management, civil engineering, hydrology or a related field, and 3 years of experience in a professional environmental planning and water quality management.

Possession of the following certifications preferred:

State of Virginia Professional Wetland Delineator Certification;
International Society of Arboriculture Arborist Certification;
Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional (CBLP) Certification;
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Erosion and Sediment Control Combined Administrator Certification;
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Stormwater Management Combined Administrator Certification;
American Society of Floodplain Managers Floodplain Manager Certification (CFM).