Job Tag: Law/Policy

The Monterey Bay Aquarium seeks a strategic and mission-driven legal leader to serve as Senior Counsel, providing expert legal counsel and risk management guidance to advance the Aquarium’s priorities with integrity, innovation, and a deep respect for the communities we serve. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Senior Counsel will be a trusted advisor to leadership and divisions, ensuring that all business operations, partnerships, and complex transactions align with the organization’s mission and long-term strategic objectives.

As a key legal and strategic partner, the Senior Counsel will lead efforts to assess and mitigate risk, enhance business operations, and develop forward-thinking policies and programs that strengthen the Aquarium’s impact. This individual will model continuous learning and ethical leadership, providing clear, actionable guidance to decision-makers at all levels, including executive leadership, project managers, and the Board of Directors.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a highly skilled and mission-aligned legal professional to play a critical role in shaping the future of the Aquarium, ensuring its continued success as a leader in ocean conservation, education, and public engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as a strategic advisor, providing legal insight on complex deals, partnerships, and operational initiatives to advance the Aquarium’s mission while ensuring compliance and risk mitigation.
Lead the development and implementation of risk management strategies and business operations policies, including overseeing legal aspects of contracts, workplans, and organizational initiatives.
Apply a solutions-driven approach to guide decision-makers through evolving and uncertain legal landscapes, helping teams navigate challenges with confidence and integrity.
Ensure all transactions and business activities align with the Aquarium’s mission, policies, and long-term strategic vision.
Foster collaboration and innovation, working cross-functionally to develop creative legal solutions that support the Aquarium’s growth and sustainability.
Communicate complex legal concepts with clarity, equipping staff, leadership, and Board members with the knowledge needed to make informed, ethical decisions.
Model ethical leadership and continuous learning, ensuring that legal strategies reflect best practices in governance, compliance, and organizational stewardship.

Team Leadership

Lead the development and implementation of strategic and annual objectives including expense budgets, workplans, new and/or improved programs/systems, etc.
Lead the team in executing daily work plans and managing workflow; oversee project priorities and ensure alignment with MBA objectives
Foster the professional growth of staff directly and indirectly reporting to the role through targeted development initiatives.

Strategic Contract Business and Risk Analysis

Review Aquarium and outside vendor contracts for business risks and stated Aquarium’s goals.
Recommend contract improvements to achieve Aquarium objectives and reduce business risk.
Draft and/or review standard vendor agreements/templates, review requested modifications.

Employee Issues

Provide counseling and guidance to stay compliant with state and federal employment laws including updates on new regulations.
Provide guidance on workplace employment issues including hiring practices, workplace discrimination, retaliation and terminations.
Drive the creation and maintenance of Aquarium policies and standard operating procedures to manage risk and improve staff efficiencies (including Employee Handbook, etc.).

Business Legal Partner

Advise on and develop creative solutions in partnership with Aquarium work groups to craft business deals, agreements and other instruments with outside partners that advance the Aquarium mission while protecting brand, mitigating risk and optimizing financial and mission outcomes.
With Aquarium leadership, advise on organizational and legal risks and mitigation strategies including a range of intellectual property matters such as copyright protection and artificial intelligence issues that may impact the Aquarium’s operations.
Develop risk mitigation strategies for insurance coverage/claims and in areas such as cybersecurity.
Serve as primary contact with external legal guidance on work such as trademark, corporate governance, fundraising, etc. and provide guidance as needed regarding compliance with cities of Monterey and Pacific Grove, including use of permits/process.

Corporate Governance

Attend Aquarium quarterly Board meetings and/or as required, review minutes and maintain compliance with non-profit requirements with federal, state and local regulations.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have the following professional and personal qualities, skills, and characteristics:

Experience in one or more of the following legal subjects: commercial contracts, employment law, technology and intellectual property, commercial or property litigation, grants and public funding, environmental protection and related administrative law, tax-exempt and nonprofit organizations and related tax issues.
Broad transaction experience, including negotiating complex, sensitive or high-profile transactions and agreements.
Familiarity with California labor laws.
Demonstration of the ability to work in a highly diversified work portfolio participating in the formulation and evaluation of broad policies and/or long-term programs or making decisions involving complex financial analyses and evaluating risk for the organization.
In-house experience and/or law firm experience advising sophisticated clients and senior management.
Juris Doctorate or equivalent and license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
10-12 years of relevant work experience with 7 years relevant legal experience as an attorney.
Experience directing staff both by direct reporting structure and/or non-direct reporting and fostering a collaborative and results-oriented team culture.
Excellent communication and problem solving skills, sound judgment, initiative and a commitment to hard work.
Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, serving as a thought partner to colleagues across the organization.
Ability to work sensitively and ethically with a variety of communities to advance shared goals.
Ability to work within and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Core Values.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The salary range for this role is $200,000 – $240,000 with a generous benefits package. The exact salary that will be offered to the Senior Counsel will be determined based on a consideration of the successful candidate’s skills, experience, and geography and aligned with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s compensation policies.

At The Trust for Public Land, we’re a team of outdoor advocates who believe in connecting everyone to the outdoors. As an ethos, we believe access to the outdoors is a fundamental human need and essential to our health and well-being. ​We’re committed to creating more places that bring us outside—parks, trails, playgrounds, and public lands—and making them available and welcoming to everyone, everywhere, regardless of ZIP code. We also understand that land has meaning; it tells the story of our history. That’s why, through our Black History and Culture initiative, we’re working to preserve sites that more fully represent the Black American experience; and we’re an ally and partner to Tribal and Indigenous communities, working in partnership to reconnect them with their ancestral lands.

One hundred million people, including 28 million children, don’t have nearby access to a park within ten minutes of their home. We’re determined to change this outdoor equity gap–and as a result, nine million people and counting now have access because of our work. We have miles to go and a plan to get there. We’re inclusive change-makers who believe in connecting everyone to the outdoors. We inspire by paving the way forward and strengthening our connection to nature. Join us!

Position Summary:

The Legal Assistant provides legal and other support to attorneys to further Trust for Public Land’s land protection and park creation priorities, working primarily in California. Primary responsibilities are assisting in the documentation and completion of transactions and activities that are legally sound and consistent with Trust for Public Land’s mission, authority, policies and procedures.

Essential Functions:

Drafts and proofs land acquisition and disposition agreements, real estate closing documentation, park design and construction contracts, and other legal documents for counsel review
Orders and reviews title documents, surveys, environmental assessments, and other due diligence reports as assigned by counsel
Reviews, analyzes and summarizes legal documents necessary for tracking and reporting on the legal status of projects
Coordinates the closing of projects to ensure that transactions close within commercially reasonable timeframes, including preparing closing packages, working with title companies, following up on closing documentation, and closing legal files in accordance with internal policies
Independently interacts and coordinates with project/program staff and outside parties
Word processes, edits, assembles, copies and distributes complex legal documents
Creates and maintains electronic legal files
Monitors and updates legal calendar; maintains form file and legal library
Tracks timely payment of real estate taxes and prepares and files real estate tax exemption applications where appropriate
Works as part of a nationwide team of attorneys and legal assistants

Other Responsibilities:
As needed, and as time allows, the Legal Assistant will assist with additional legal services as assigned.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
2 to 4 years of progressively responsible real estate transactional experience and legal administration is required
Paralegal or legal assistant certification is a plus but not required
Self-motivated with an ability to work without direct supervision, prioritize work in the absence of specific instructions, and exercise good judgment in identifying and solving problems
Ability to interpret and take initiative within broadly defined policies and practices
Strong organizational, planning, and interpersonal skills with an ability to maintain a sense of humor and composure when dealing with diverse personalities and work styles
Capable of multi-tasking, working under pressure, and meeting deadlines in a decentralized environment
Detail and results oriented
Excellent oral and written communications skills
Notary Public License or the desire/goal to obtain license
Strong commitment to TPL’s mission and shared values (Belonging, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Hope) to effectively work across the organization.

Compensation:
Trust for Public Land is a hybrid work environment, and this role will ideally be located near a Trust for Public Land office. As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Trust for Public Land’s comprehensive benefits program which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, vacation and sick pay plus holidays, a year end office closure, and a 403(b)-retirement plan, currently with up to a 7% company match. We offer competitive salaries commensurate with experience; the anticipated hiring range for this position is $60,000-68,000 annually.

Hours Per Week: ~35 hours/week. (9am-5pm.)

Approximate Duration: June 2025 – Early/Mid 2026. (Our internships can last up to 11 months from the start date.)

Hybrid work schedule: Work 2 days in the office (Tuesday and Wednesday) and 3 days remotely.

Basic Function of the Position:
Support CTA environmental programs, including specific support for CTA’s policy areas including electronics recycling, extended producer responsibility, electronics repair, chemical and materials restrictions, packaging, and energy efficiency.

Critical Duties and Responsibilities:

Track federal and state environmental legislation and regulation and support CTA environmental staff in preparing legislative/regulatory update memos and comments.
Support research and outreach on e-waste, green chemistry initiatives, electronics repair, energy efficiency, packaging, and other subject areas as needed.
Assist CTA environmental program staff with compiling notes and minutes for monthly member company meetings and various conference calls.
Attend legislative hearings and stakeholder meetings and take notes, as necessary.
Assist in the planning, logistical coordination, and onsite support for the Leaders in Technology (LIT) program for CES 2026 in Las Vegas, NV.
Perform other duties as required by business needs.

Work Experience:

Experience coordinating.
Work and/or internship experience in an office environment preferred.
Experience in meetings/conventions/special events preferred.
Experience reading and interpreting legislation preferred.
Experience tracking state legislation and regulation preferred.

Education and Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Completed or working toward a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Energy/Environmental Policy, Public Policy, Political Science, Government Business, Economics or other related field.
Coursework in political science, energy and environmental policy, and sustainability issues strongly desired.
Understanding of the political process at a local, state, and/or federal level.
Must possess excellent written and oral communications skills, with professional writing/editing experience a plus.
Must be exceptionally detail-oriented.
Self-starter that can work independently, complete projects with little supervision and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Strong Excel and Office skills are essential.

Additional Information:

Travel to CES 2026 is required.
PAID Internship.

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.