Job Tag: Law/Policy

Earthjustice is the premier nonprofit environmental law organization. We take on the biggest, most precedent-setting cases across the country. We wield the power of law and the strength of partnership to protect people’s health; to preserve magnificent places and wildlife; to advance clean energy; and to combat climate change. We partner with thousands of groups, supporters, individuals and communities to engage the critical environmental issues of our time and bring about positive change. We are here because the earth needs a good lawyer.

Founded in 1971, Earthjustice has a distinguished track record of achieving significant, lasting environmental protections. We achieve this by hiring people who share a passion for justice and a healthy environment. Our headquarters are in San Francisco with offices in Anchorage, Juneau, Chicago, Los Angeles, Tallahassee, Miami, Honolulu, New York, Philadelphia, Denver, Seattle, Bozeman, and Washington, D.C.

This position provides legislative and administrative strategy development and implementation as well as oversight of a team of the Policy and Legislation staff working on Earthjustice’s climate and energy priorities, including limited PAL advocacy in the states if applicable.

This is a hybrid position from our Washington, D.C. office (minimum 2 days a week).
Responsibilities:
Lobby Strategy Development and Implementation (30-40%)

Oversees the development and implementation of legislative and administrative advocacy strategies by supervisees as well as develops and implements same on issues covered directly.
Directly lobby Congress and the Administration.
Educate the Administration and Congress on key legal challenges and rulings.
Serve as spokesperson for Earthjustice on (climate and energy) issues.
Responsibly takes positions on policy and legislative matters relating to (climate and energy issues) in consultation with the V.P. of PAL, relevant supervisees, and, as warranted, relevant Legislative Director peers, Litigation V.P.s, litigators and other internal policy experts.
Works with V.P. of Policy and Litigation and, as appropriate, relevant PAL, Litigation and Leadership staff in recommending positions on Presidential nominees.
Develop, maintain and expand trusting relationships with senior staff of key congressional and administration decision-makers, including relevant congressional committees.
Tracks legislation and policy initiatives relating to (climate and energy) issues.
Develops or oversees the development of lobby and education materials by staff, including but not limited to fact sheets, letters, action alerts and blogs.
Works with the relevant issue-based and PAL National Communications Strategists to develop media strategies and conducts media outreach and the creation of social media, blogs, op-eds and other strategic communications tools on (climate and energy) issues.
Perform policy, legislative and legal analysis.
Plan and implement initiatives, as well as oversee the planning and implementation of initiatives by supervisees, to educate the public and foster broader public advocacy for (climate and energy).
Plan and execute events, such as fly-ins, briefings and lobby days and oversee same by supervisees.
Proactively seek out opportunities to advance policies in the federal, and when applicable state, legislative and regulatory arenas.

Coalition and Partnerships(10-20%)

Creates and maintains a leadership position within the D.C. environmental community and when applicable state and local environmental and justice communities on assigned issue areas.
Represent Earthjustice in coalitions and with partners on assigned issues.
Create opportunities for partners and allies to engage in education and advocacy on assigned issues and to be engaged in strategy development as appropriate.
Cultivate and expands deep and trusting relationships with clients, partners, and coalitions in support of climate and energy issues.
Coordinate briefings, seminars, and informational sessions with clients and partners as well as support partners’ Hill/administration outreach as appropriate.

Internal Coordination/Administration (15-20%)

Serve on the PAL Managers Team and meaningfully contribute to same.
Liaison with Earthjustice Vice President of Litigation for Climate and Energy, relevant Practice/Working Group chairs, litigators as well as PAL and Climate and Energy National Communications Strategists.
Contributes to organization-wide annual and strategic planning, including serving on planning working groups and/or delegating team members to do so.
Contribute to department-wide advocacy and efficiency improvement strategies.
Assist in efforts to cultivate diversity, equity and inclusion within the organization and the broader environmental movement.
Maintain clear communication and close coordination with PAL Vice President, fellow Legislative Directors and, as appropriate other PAL lobbyists, work you or your team are doing that may impact them, as well as on shared legislation or cross-cutting issues.
Act as a team player, including assisting supervisees or other PAL lobbyists when time-pressed to complete actions pertaining to their assigned issues.
Participate and contribute in strategy meetings regarding possible or pending litigation likely to impact advocacy efforts on covered issues.
Assist PAL V.P. in developing annual budget, mid-year enhancements and establishing PAL issue priorities to advance strategic plan objectives.
Contribute to Earthjustice’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) mission through involvement in trainings and internal working groups.
Ensure timely submission of attendance, time accounting and reimbursement requests.
Regularly assist in fundraising efforts for (climate and energy) issues as requested by the Earthjustice Development Department and proactively flag cultivation opportunities when appropriate.

Supervision (40%)

Cultivate and lead a cohesive and supportive policy team around (climate and energy).
Occasionally substitute for V.P. of PAL when the V.P. is unavailable.
Hire and supervise PAL staff on the climate and energy team issues and foster coordination and collaboration with PAL staff whose work intersects with the work of your team.
Provide advocacy coaching, mentoring and regular feedback to direct reports.
Foster a transparent and inclusive culture within your team and PAL.
Supervise projects and other efforts performed on assigned issues by Legislative Assistants, Interns or contractors.

Management (Essential Functions)

Thirty to seventy percent depending on number of direct reports (approximately 10% of time per direct report). Currently manages 5 direct reports.

Recruits and hires qualified candidates who fit position requirements and the work environment.
Promotes change in terms of the expected benefits, as well as removing or lowering the impact of potential obstacles.
Sets clear team direction that aligns with Earthjustice strategy, mission, and vision.
Develops staff by identifying and encouraging training and professional development opportunities appropriate to role and creating development plans for all staff.
Provides staff with consistent performance feedback — both positive and constructive — and acts as a coach and mentor.
Creates a learning culture, by encouraging debriefing after completion of significant stages of projects.
Creates a respectful and inclusive work environment for team and models respectful and inclusive behavior.
Promptly addresses micro-aggressions and other concerns brought to their attention.
Resolves interpersonal conflict among team members and brings in outside facilitators as needed.
Communicates regularly with existing employees and encourages staff to raise concerns and to provide ongoing feedback.
Creates or identifies strategic opportunities for team building and individual and overall staff engagement with one another in order to strengthen teamwork, interaction and collaboration.
Values and uses individual differences and talents to improve employee satisfaction and the quality of collective work.
Celebrates successes and helps team members to understand and manage setbacks.
Other duties as assigned.

*Current Direct Reports: Legislative Representative, Sr. Legislative Counsel, and Staff Scientist.

There is the potential for an additional direct report.
Qualifications:

Eight years combined federal legislative and administrative advocacy experience.
Bachelors, Masters, or JD.
Proven leadership skills.
Significant familiarity and experience with administrative rulemaking process.
Substantial knowledge and experience with the federal legislative process.
Experience with U.S. environmental laws required.
Proven ability to develop and implement successful legislative and administrative strategies.
Maintain leadership within D.C. environmental community on assigned issues.
Ability to handle multiple tasks, projects and deadlines.
Excellent writing and oral communications skills.
Proven ability to develop sound relationships with key staff of decision-makers.
Detail-oriented and good organizational skills.
Proven ability to work in diverse coalitions and with allies, and ability to grow these relationships.
Experience in working with traditional and social media.
Proven ability to work independently and proactively.
Prior management experience a plus.

The National Park Foundation is currently seeking a Government Relations Communications Coordinator. This position will work with the Vice President, Government Relations, to develop and execute an earned and paid media strategy in collaboration with the strategic communications team and a communications firm surrounding major legislative priorities for the National Park Foundation. The position will facilitate a variety of communications activities supporting public relations, media relations, and digital communications and will work closely with Congressional offices and the National Park Service.

Note: This is a 1-year term, full-time position based in Washington, DC.

Essential Functions/Duties/Tasks

Assist the Government Relations team in developing messaging in support of NPF legislative priorities
Work closely with the NPF communications team to develop messaging that is consistent with NPF brand and voice
Support relationship with outside communications firm to craft messaging for NPF, partners, and legislators
Develop materials including press releases, media statements, pitch letters, interview briefs, and other materials
Write and copyedit communications materials including blogs, newsletters, reports, presentations, and more
Assist Park Partners with holding events surrounding infrastructure projects nationwide
Draft messaging, op eds, talking points, with communications firm to elevate national park success stories and emphasize the need for continued support
Develop messaging toolkit for park partners
Track and amplify park partner messaging
Work with social media team to develop a plan for amplifying successes and events
Other duties as assigned

Experience and Qualifications

2-3 years of experience in communications-related field; experience on Capitol Hill is preferred
Ability to both thrive in a fast-paced, fluid, collaborative, team-oriented environment and to work independently effectively while sharing information openly is a must
Willingness to work, collaborate, and communicate with colleagues in all departments to gather the resources, skills, and expertise necessary to convey the NPF message on Capitol Hill and across administrations
An understanding of communicating with policy makers and legislators to advocate on a particular topic
Dedication to promoting NPF’s core mission and priorities and connecting donor’s philanthropic impact to advancing shared goals
Knowledge and understanding of public relations and communications best practices, trends, and analytics
Exceptional communications skills – written, verbal, and visual
Demonstrated flexibility in writing styles, both in creative and tactical materials
Analytical thinking, research, and editing skills
MS Office proficiency including Word, Excel, PowerPoint required
Experience using Cision Monday, and PRNewswire a plus

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) is the nonprofit organization that represents America’s 3,000 conservation districts and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. Conservation districts are local units of government established under state law to carry out natural resource management programs at the local level. Districts work with millions of cooperating landowners and operators to help them manage and protect land and water resources on all private lands and many public lands in the United States.

NACD’s mission is to serve conservation districts by providing national leadership and a unified voice for natural resource conservation.

Position Description: This full-time position is responsible for providing assistance to the National Association of Conservation District’s (NACD) Board of Directors and members to advance conservation, resource development, and to assist in the implementation of the association’s federal policies. The NACD Director of Government Affairs is the association’s primary liaison with Congress, federal natural resource agencies and groups with interests in responsible management and conservation of natural resources.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Serves as staff lead for the association’s direct advocacy efforts.
Develops plans, strategies, and tactics to advance policy positions and supports grassroots efforts.
Leads efforts to influence legislation and policies related to natural resources conservation.
Monitors, analyzes, and responds to emerging legislation or policies impacting conservation. o Assists with preparing and reviewing briefings, talking points, testimony, letters, position papers, and comments on regulations, programs, policies and statements affecting conservation districts.
Establishes and maintains working relationships with Congress, federal natural resource agencies, coalitions and special interest groups to advance district policies and positions. o Serves as liaison to outside conservation and commodity organizations.
Represents the association in meetings and other public forums.
In coordination with the NACD Executive and Management Teams, helps shape and implement NACD’s strategic plan and goals to advance conservation and continuously improve support to its members.
Coordinates with NACD Directors to implement communication strategies to conservation districts, state associations, government agencies, conservation organizations, and the public.
Provides leadership for NACD committees and subcommittees, as assigned. o Serves as staff lead for the association’s policy development and resolutions process.
Performs other duties, as assigned.
Carries out tasks of managing, coordinating and implementing grant related activities related to specific national grants and cooperative agreements. o Assists in planning and executing NACD conferences and events.
Performs any and all related duties that advance the mission and purpose of NACD.

Desired Skills/Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred in political science, public policy, environmental science or a related field.
Working knowledge of conservation districts, federal natural resource agencies, and federal conservation programs.
Significant professional experience working with Congress and federal agencies.
Proven track record of building coalitions and maintaining effective partnerships that advance an organization’s policy agenda.
Strong analytical skills to evaluate legislative or policy proposals and their impacts on conservation.
Excellent written communications skills, including experience developing congressional testimony and policy position papers.
Strong public speaking skills and experience representing organizations through presentations or panel discussions.
Some travel required (estimated one trip per quarter).

Location: This position is located in NACD’s Headquarters in Washington, D.C. This position reports to the Chief Program Officer.

The Climate Action Campaign (CAC) Fellowship is a paid intern program designed to immerse its participants in the environmental advocacy field. Assignments vary and are designed to both support the campaign with its mission to advance and defend climate policies and assist the fellow with their professional growth. This non-exempt position allows interaction with all of the campaign’s departments providing a wide breadth of experiences.

We have a fellowship available in our Government Affairs department. As an integral part of the team, the Government Affairs fellow will learn about environmental advocacy at the national level, including efforts to build public support for action to tackle the climate crisis, educate key decisionmakers, and shape federal policy.

CAC is based in Washington, D.C. We are currently working in a hybrid environment with fellows expected in the office 2-3 times per week.

The fellow will work predominantly with the Government Affairs team completing tasks including but not limited to:

Conducting legislative research, tracking, and analysis, including reviewing and summarizing major legislation and tracking decisionmakers’ positions on priority issues

Assisting with environmental advocacy efforts including drafting outreach language and creating, editing, and distributing a variety of documents for internal and external use

Tracking and reporting Congressional and administrative activity (meetings, events, etc.)

Tracking and reporting national and local partners’ activities (meetings, events, etc.)

Attending briefings, meetings, and events with CAC staff and external allies

Assisting various Departments during surge moments, including but not limited to attending events or otherwise supporting community-wide climate advocacy efforts, facilitating outreach to partners and decisionmakers, conducting research and data entry

Attending internal meetings and assisting with Campaign-wide metrics and reporting

Assisting with internal information sharing and communications

Providing logistics and meeting support as needed

Completing other duties and tasks as they arise

Who You Are

A successful candidate has the following:

Interest in environmental issues and the environmental community

Ability to learn to juggle multiple, distinct projects in a fast-paced, high-expectation campaign environment

Ability to work successfully individually and collaboratively, with diverse teams and individuals internally and with external partner organizations

Experience with data entry and managing large amounts of data

Excellent communicator and self-starter; keen attention to detail

Experience in issue-organizing, advocacy or electoral campaigns a plus

Familiarity with Congressional activity and legislative research and analysis a plus

The paid fellowship program lasts for 13 weeks, with an ideal start date of June 2, 2025 and fellows participate for 20 hours/week. Rate of Pay: $18.00 per hour, as an hourly non-exempt position.

Friends of the River seeks to engage all California communities in protecting and restoring California’s aquatic ecosystems, to sustain life itself and provide the foundation for a water system that is just, resilient, sustainable and practical. Restoring natural river and estuary systems is critical to successfully reverse a century and a half of degradation and to adapt California’s water management to the future of climate change. Friends of the River works to accomplish these goals by influencing public policy and inspiring citizen action.

Lead Scientist

Friends of the River seeks an expert in the biology and ecology of aquatic systems to lead our technical and analytic efforts to evaluate proposed programs, policies and projects affecting California rivers and to develop and promote effective, efficient and durable approaches to restoring aquatic systems and improving water and land use management practices. The position is full-time. The Lead Scientist reports to the Program Director.

Duties and responsibilities:

Working under the guidance of the Program Director, implements science-based strategies for achieving FOR policy and advocacy goals.
Oversees the technical, analytical work necessary to refine and promote FOR’s positions regarding river and estuary ecosystem restoration and water management, by:
Reviewing, analyzing and commenting on proposed regulations and projects
Conducting focused technical research and analysis on priority issues, and
Supervising the activities of technical staff and consultants, and reporting to the Program Director on staff activities.
Stays well informed regarding current scientific papers and studies, and other materials, as needed to track and apply the best available scientific information.
Represents FOR in hearings, workshops, conferences and other meetings as appropriate, including formal testimony.
Communicates to the media and the public regarding FOR priorities and contributes to FOR communication and outreach materials.
Participates in grant-writing and reporting where relevant to program activities.

Lead scientist qualifications:

Doctorate in conservation biology, aquatic ecology or related field, or equivalent expertise

Key skills/knowledge desired:

Understanding of California water policy and environmental management issues
Ability to rapidly review and analyze multiple streams of complex information and use findings to help formulate effective science-based policy guidance for management issues
Ability to communicate complex scientific issues and recommendations to decision-makers and the public
Several years’ experience in engaging on aquatic ecosystem management issues
Exceptional writing ability
Collegiality, flexibility and a sense of humor
Flexible and positive outlook in the face of big challenges like the climate crisis, curious, independent with collaborative work style
Foster productive work relationships with others. Follow FOR practices, procedures, and policies

Salary and benefits:

The position is full-time.
Salary range is $100,000 to $130,000 depending on qualifications and years of experience.
Benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, 13 paid holidays, a generous vacation and sick time policy, and 3% Simple IRA matching.

Other requirements:

Valid driver’s license
Travel within the state of California, mostly in Northern California, and access to a reliable automobile
Evening and weekend work may be required for events throughout the year.
Able to work on a computer for up to 8 hours a day and sit at a desk for extended periods; able to read a computer screen and manual dexterity to operate a keyboard.
Able to speak clearly on the phone, in person and be understood by others.
For events, meetings, and a safe return to the office, COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for all staff (unless medically exempt as authorized by a medical professional).

Location:

The job location is at the FOR offices in Sacramento.
Candidates may have the option to work remotely at the discretion of their manager, when business needs do not require presence at the office.
Travel to the Sacramento state capitol, and other locations throughout the state is required on occasion to meet the job objectives.

The Senior Policy Manager will lead policy efforts and oversee governmental affairs functions to advance Audubon Great Plains mission and bird conservation objectives. Audubon Great Plains includes Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. Reporting to the Vice-President and Executive Director of Audubon Great Plains, they will work closely with state and national staff to develop and implement strategic policy agendas, initiatives, and campaigns.

Under the guidance of the Executive Director, the Senior Policy Manager will lead the development and execution of our policy agenda and goals that advance Audubon’s priorities at the state and federal levels with a near-term focus on advancing clean energy policies; private working lands and public land policies that facilitate habitat restoration, conservation and protection; and conservation funding. This work includes collaborating with the Audubon Great Plains conservation staff in strategy development and execution, engaging the chapters, bolstering the grassroots network, and building key partnerships and coalitions. This includes proactively communicating issues and positions and supporting fundraising efforts for successful policy campaigns and conservation outcomes.

The Senior Policy Manager will build and maintain bipartisan working relationships with external partners and stakeholders, the Great Plains state Governor’s offices, Great Plains state and federal legislative offices, relevant local officials, and state and federal agencies to remain informed of policy and legislative developments related to Audubon’s agenda. They will help advance opportunities to leverage Audubon’s engaged and growing grassroots membership and organization-wide commitment to pragmatic science-based solutions.

The ideal candidate is an experienced manager and strategic thinker with a working background knowledge of the policy and political landscape of the Great Plains.

Compensation:

$89,650 – $101,000 / year

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

Lead the development and effectively implement Audubon’s policy agenda and goals in Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota, under the guidance of the Executive Director of Audubon Great Plains.
Work closely with the Great Plains team to effectively align the policy work and priorities with strategic regional and national priorities. Collaborate with Audubon’s National Policy Team on all Great Plains related issues. Develop strong and effective working relationships with staff across the Audubon Network.
Identify opportunities for policy engagement and serve as an effective advocate for Audubon’s legislative and regulatory priorities in all three states.
Build creative and enduring alliances and partnerships to support Audubon’s policy efforts and serve as an effective, enthusiastic, and visible spokesperson for Audubon.
Give presentations to elected officials, stakeholders and other audiences.
Effectively engage internal and external stakeholders in the development of key plans and strategies. Serve on issue specific task forces as appropriate.
Build and maintain relationships with key state-elected and agency officials and leaders, as well as the state Congressional delegation and federal agencies critical to Audubon goals.
Stay abreast of legislative affairs and decisions affecting Audubon’s conservation agenda and its constituents.
Lobby Congress, federal and state administration branches and agencies, and others to advance conservation objectives.
Increase grassroots policy capacity across the Great Plains in a way that engages a diverse set of participants. Collaborate with the Audubon chapters, which are partners but separate non-profits in the Great Plains that engage in policy work. Identify where we have alignment and work toward increased collaboration to advance our policy priorities.
Create opportunities and training to grow grassroots capacity. Be an active partner in helping to brainstorm engagement strategies for current and new members interested in the state’s advocacy work.
Provide periodic updates and recommendations to the Great Plains team, national staff and the Great Plains advisory board. This may include identifying important issues that need to be addressed across the range of priority conservation programs.
Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.
Manage staff, contract lobbyists and other contract staff as needed.
Promote an organizational culture and structure that fosters cooperation, communication, collaboration, teamwork and trust.
Serve as a member of the Audubon Great Plains Leadership Team, to include participating in board meetings and provide advice on organizational strategy pertaining to policy matters.
Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
In collaboration with the Executive Director and Audubon’s development team, help raise revenue for the Audubon Great Plains Program which includes grant writing and cultivate donors and foundations.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in political science, environmental studies, or related field and 7+ years professional experience in policy, grassroots advocacy, wildlife conservation, public service, or related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
Demonstrated knowledge of and experience working in federal, state, and local governmental processes.
Keen understanding of current policy trends in the Great Plains (Nebraska, South Dakota and Nebraska) related to energy, natural climate solutions, the Platte River, wildlife management, agriculture and working lands policy. Experience applying this knowledge is strongly preferred.
Desire and demonstrated ability to build durable bipartisan public will for climate, energy, and conservation issues, collaborate with diverse stakeholders and engage individuals across the political spectrum on Audubon’s policy interests.
Experience working in partnership with stakeholders and/or grassroots building. Experience working with volunteers is strongly preferred.
Excellent written and verbal communications skills and the ability build consensus amongst a wide range of individuals. Comfort with presenting and engaging others in public-speaking events is also necessary.
Demonstrated experience overseeing complex or multiple projects through to success, including meeting financial goals, project deadlines, and coordinating the work of key staff and partners.
Thorough understanding of how advocacy, communications, and grassroots engagement components effectively work together.
Superior relationship-building and interpersonal skills, including demonstrating a proven ability to collaborate successfully with colleagues across an organization to develop conservation strategies; work easily and effectively with a wide range of people; act diplomatically while exhibiting an understanding and sensitivity to the dynamics of a complex organization.
Technically savvy, to include proficiency with Microsoft Office suite applications and comfort using web-based engagement systems.
Willingness and ability to travel as needed, some weekends and evenings required.
Demonstrated interest in conservation and commitment to the mission of the National Audubon Society.
Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
Driver’s license and own transportation required.

We are looking for an Attorney to join our team as a member of DEQ’s legal staff. The purpose of this position is to assist and represent DEQ on issues and in cases regarding its administration of environmental and procedural statutes, administrative rules, and applicable constitutional provisions. The employee represents the Department in judicial and administrative proceedings, and in negotiations. The employee ensures that DEQ’s positions and actions are legally defensible and that, when challenged before a court or administrative body, those positions and actions are presented effectively and persuasively. The employee also prepares legal documents and advises clients on legal transactions, including permitting actions and day-to-day legal advice.

This position will primarily support Air, Energy, Mining Division with a primary emphasis on coal, hard rock, and open cut mining. 2-5 years litigation experience is preferred.

Essential Functions:

Administrative Enforcement Actions

· Perform legal research and evaluation to analyze requests for enforcement under laws administrated by the Department. This will include such activities as understanding and determining whether and how legal action should proceed against persons, entities, and/or responsible parties alleged to have violated a permit or have a potential liability at a site.

· Preparation or review of administrative orders and enforcement documents to direct violators and/or responsible party to an action; participate in negotiations for settlements and/or consent orders; oversee implementation of orders or provide guidance on whether orders are not being complied with; institute administrative and civil court actions to ensure compliance with administrative orders; coordinate actions with appropriate local, state, and federal agencies; and provide legal advice and guidance to the assigned program area under relevant legal authorities.

Legal Opinions, Consultation, and Research

· Perform legal research and prepare written legal opinions at the request of program management and staff regarding various areas of law to facilitate program implementation; prepare advice and consultation to agency personnel on administrative and legal matters; prepare contracts and other legal agreements between the Department and third parties; research and draft memoranda of law on issues for Attorney General opinions; and research and draft Department declaratory rulings and respond to public inquiries regarding legal and administrative matters.

· Interpret state and federal laws and rules; counsels Department and clients about legal issues and obligations; suggests courses of action to Department using knowledge of legal precedent and by analyzing probable outcomes; analyze, interpret, and advise about new laws that have no case precedent.

· Assists Department using knowledge of specific fields of law to prepare, review, and file documents.

Legal Representation and Litigation

· Represent the Department in negotiations and in legal forums ranging from administrative bodies to state district courts, Montana Supreme Court, and federal district court.

· Draft documents involved in the conduct of litigation including pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery responses and requests, affidavits, findings of facts, conclusions of law, and orders.

· Draft or review documents involving contracts for services provided by or for the Department. Draft or review documents memorializing the relationship between the Department and a third-party regarding duties and responsibilities such as Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

· Represent the Department in negotiations with contracting firms, public interest groups, regulated persons and private parties in matters concerning various functions of the Department.

· Advises private industry and public interest groups at meetings and in response to telephone calls, letters, or other requests for information regarding the authority and legal positions of the Department on issues and problems.

Contracts

· Draft or review contracts, task orders, or agreement documents for services provided by or for the Department. Contracts need to follow procurement guidelines under both federal and state government contract laws to facilitate the hiring of technical consultants, information technology services, or other expert services.

· Draft and negotiate agreements with tribal, federal, state, and local entities that memorialize the relationship between the Department and a third-party regarding duties and responsibilities, and enforce, modify, or terminate contracts and interagency agreements.

Rulemaking and Legislation

· Draft or review Department rules and Department legislation. Prepare legal analysis of the impact of proposed state and federal legislation; provide notice and presentation of administrative rule at public hearings; monitor changes in federal regulations and statutes; provide written comments on proposed federal rules.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

· Knowledge of court rules and procedures as well as general knowledge of common law and constitutional principles.

· Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing for legal and non-legal audiences.

· Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

· Work cooperatively with others as part of a team (e.g. by giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times);

· Work cooperatively with opposing parties.

· Consider the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

· Understand the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making; and

· Manage one’s own time and multitask.

Education/Experience:
Juris Doctor from ABA-accredited law school.

· Admission to and maintenance of licensure from the State Bar of Montana.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

L4GG’s Climate Change & Environmental Justice (CCEJ) Program mobilizes lawyers nationwide to combat the climate crisis and promote environmental justice. We use the law to implement and execute climate solutions equitably at federal, state, and local levels, with twin goals of expediting the country’s just transition to a green economy and directly addressing environmental racism. We do this by:

Advocating for federal agencies to address climate change and equity through their climate and infrastructure program funding
Assisting state and local governments with creating and implementing laws and policies
Providing low-income cities and communities most harmed by discriminatory environmental practices with high-quality, pro bono legal representation

Over the past two years, the CCEJ Program has become a key technical assistance provider to federal, state, and local leaders, nonprofit partners and frontline communities to help ensure the equitable distribution of historic federal funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and other federal laws to expedite a just transition to a green economy. In 2023 alone, L4GG provided guidance to over 700 state and local decision-makers, nonprofits and frontline communities regarding federal funding and programs and has become a thought leader and key technical assistance provider to the public sector writ large on IRA implementation, including in particular, tax incentives like elective pay. L4GG is regularly sought out by governor’s offices, local governments, thought leaders, and nonprofit partners to provide guidance on IRA implementation and is looking to expand its existing Clean Energy Clinic to provide additional guidance to the many public agencies and communities looking to finance clean energy projects under the IRA.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

We’re seeking a senior clean energy attorney to help lead our clean energy initiative, which includes leading the nationwide effort on the equitable implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expedite a just transition to the green economy. This person would help manage assistance to literally hundreds of state agencies, local agencies, green banks, and CBOs looking to leverage the IRA. This person would help lead the clean energy initiative and would report to the CCEJ Director, a national expert on IRA implementation.

REQUIREMENTS:

The ideal candidate will have top-notch interpersonal skills, experience working with state and local decision-makers, good judgment, and the ability to work and thrive in a fast-paced environment. We need someone who can work independently with a strong sense of urgency and take initiative to identify and resolve challenges. We also need someone with an ability to identify creative public finance solutions to help finance clean energy and climate justice projects in distressed communities by leveraging the tools in the IRA and other historic federal funding.

Must have access to a quiet workspace (home office or other space) with high-speed internet and the ability to take calls and/or video conferences during working hours.

Required qualifications include:

Education required: Law degree and 8+ years of experience in clean energy, regulatory, energy, and/or administrative law
Experience with the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act and federal funding mechanisms
Commitment to equity and our organization’s mission
Passion for tackling climate change and climate justice issues
Ability to work autonomously as well as collaborate and work well with a team
Exceptionally strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills
Strong interpersonal skills
Comfortable working with and communicating with private sector attorneys and higher-level decision-makers at the federal, state, and local level
Comfortable presenting technical legal issues to large audiences
Proven ability to lead multiple projects simultaneously
Proven ability to lead and manage a team of attorneys
Consistent attention to detail
Strong ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and escalate issues to CCEJ Director as appropriate
Experience using Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Drive, and Mac computers
Technology comfort and competence, including willingness to embrace new tools and self-train using provided resources as needed

Desired qualifications include:

Direct experience with IRA implementation, in particular, the various programs under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund
Located in or around Washington DC with willingness to travel to present on public policy
Experience with any or all of the following digital tools: Asana, Airtable, Zoom

Position Summary

Plans, supervises, provides expertise/consultation, reviews progress, and evaluates results on projects and programs involving engineering, permitting, licensing, auditing, regulatory compliance, and/or environmental assessments to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental statutes and regulations. Possesses comprehensive knowledge of theories and principles and applies it in creative and effective ways to a broad range of very difficult and complex assignments. Under consultative direction and with substantial latitude for unreviewed actions and decisions conducts important investigations requiring the application of new approaches in the field. Routinely serves on special work teams and uses expert technical knowledge to act as lead person or technical advisor on medium to large projects. Assignments are routinely self-initiated.

Essential Responsibilities

Administers and consults on complex programs designed to minimize deficiencies and ensure compliance with regulations and permits. Directs site assessment/investigations/remediation projects as necessary. (Major areas may include: auditing, air permitting and compliance, water/wastewater permitting and compliance, land quality, radiological, above ground and underground storage tanks, emergency plans, DOT compliance, FAA safety regulations, and hazardous, liquid and solid waste disposal.)

Negotiates and administers license and permit applications and response actions to ensure compliance with existing federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Performs as a regulatory liaison with federal, state, and local agencies. Presents testimony at environmental hearings to support company position on environmental regulatory development.

Directs and/or conducts data collection, strategic studies, evaluations, and report development to support environmental regulatory requirements at Xcel facilities. Projects may include proposed legislation and/or emerging public issues, operating permit limits and/or potential environmental regulatory noncompliance.

Develops training lesson plan content that meet Xcel Academy standards, maintains instructor qualifications, and provides regulatory compliance training to Xcel personnel as is regulatory required and/or customer requested.

Monitors outcomes of incidents, regulatory inspections and internal audits of company owned facilities, contractors, and/or outside disposal facilities and conducts and/or assesses root cause analysis to ensure corrective actions adequately address the problem and non-compliance conditions are not repeated. Provides support for emergency environmental incidents as needed.

Monitors statutes, regulations, licenses, and/or permits for potential impacts to facility operations. Reviews proposed regulations, licenses, and/or permits to determine potential impacts to facility operations. Serves as the lead reviewer coordinating comments from others into a single company position recommendation.

Prepares requests for proposals, contract agreements, and project estimates. Supports and/or selects and manages consultants and contractors.

Assists others in developing, refining and implementing the strategic goals and objectives of Xcel Energy. Contributes to process teams concerning budget and regulatory compliance.

Minimum Requirements

BS/BA in environmental science, engineering, applied science, or related fields and six years of progressively more responsible environmental related work experience including, but not limited to environmental regulations, remedial procedures, audit procedures, and power generation processes. Demonstrated skills in technical writing, verbal communication, and negotiations. (Note: An Associate college degree in areas of environmental or applied science and three years of progressive responsibilities in related work experience may be substituted for the education requirement. The following additional advanced education in the field can be substituted for related work experience: MS/MA/MBA = 2 years; PhD/J.D. = 3 years.)

The National Audubon Society has identified Southwest Florida as a national conservation priority and a centerpiece of Audubon’s hemispheric water strategy. This region is also the western extent of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem that supports seventy threatened and endangered species and is home to more than 8 million people.

Aligned with Audubon’s overall conservation goals and strategies and in coordination with the Sr. Director of Policy, the Director of Corkscrew Swamp and Sanctuary and the Director of Everglades Policy, this individual will oversee the continued strategic and measurable implementation of conservation goals in Southwest Florida that result in the organization’s increased capacity to protect priority birds and their habitats.

This position will be hybrid, partially located in Naples at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (CSS).

Compensation:

$71,190 – $80,089 / year

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

Lead engagement on significant water and hydrology, land use, and planning initiatives in the vicinity of CSS and collaborate with agencies, applicants, and stakeholders as necessary to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.

Amplify policy outcomes of research at CSS regionally and statewide by influencing regional water quality and supply permitting, local land-use and zoning changes, as well as state legislation that may affect these issues.

Monitor relevant government agencies and elected bodies, including municipal councils and county commissions including the South Florida Water Management District and Big Cypress Basin, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Florida Forestry Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and other agencies, which may consider rules, plans, projects, and policies that affect Southwest Florida and CSS.

Organize and provide expert and informed comments and input.

Build relationships with elected officials and their relevant subject area staff as necessary.

Staff the Corkscrew Sustainability Board, provide regular policy and issue updates and guidance to the Board. Provide field experiences to decision makers when necessary, including policy support for resource staff efforts.

Coordinate and liaise with regional partners on relevant issues, including CREW Trust, area conservation organizations, Citizen Support Org’s, Florida Panther Protection Program partners, Audubon chapters in the region (RCC).

Provide policy input and support on key Audubon Florida policy initiatives, including climate resilience and mitigation, Everglades, transportation, land acquisition, legislative, South Florida Water Management District & Big Cypress Basin Board engagement, Shorebird Stewardship, listed species policies, and water policies.

Provide policy support for regional development work by Audubon.

Attend and participate in CSS staff meetings and administrative duties as needed.

Collaborate with Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree required in policy, political science, biology, or related field.

A minimum of 5 years of experience with a policy-oriented nonprofit organization, or with a relevant government agency working on water management, environmental regulations, or similar is required.

Knowledge of Florida planning and/or water statutes, rules, and regulations.

Excellent policy analysis and research skills.

Excellent communications skills with ability to write clearly and command of public speaking. Must be comfortable representing Audubon’s interests with a variety of stakeholders, including decision-makers at multiple agencies, NGO partners, and lay audiences.

Self-starter and purposeful with a demonstrated ability to work independently and in coordination with multiple team players.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications is required.

Able to travel and attend occasional external functions occurring on weekends and evenings.

A valid driver’s license.

Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.