Job Tag: Law/Policy

The Senior Paralegal, under minimal supervision of a TNC attorney, provides an advanced level of expertise to support and coordinate legal services for assigned business units or projects, ensuring that transactions and activities are legally sound and consistent with TNC’s mission, authority, policies, and procedures. The Senior Paralegal applies advanced knowledge and skills to serve organizational needs in a highly efficient and effective manner. They can effectively articulate relevant legal concepts and internal policies and procedures to others. They have a solid understanding of the concept of legal liability and risk management.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for work that makes a difference? The Nature Conservancy has received a $200 million grant that will support implementation of nature-based solutions across four states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland. Projects will focus on improved forest management, peatland restoration and tidal wetland enhancements. This grant is part of a historic $421 million award from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) Program that will fund both state-led projects and TNC-led projects. North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland, and TNC Chapters within those states joined together in forming the Atlantic Conservation Coalition to implement this program. The term of the grant is five years.

TNC seeks to protect 67,650 acres of Appalachian Forest and 25,450 acres of bottomland hardwoods, restore 33,000 acres of peatlands and protect an additional 10,500 acres of peatlands, and restore 150 acres of tidal wetlands. When complete, these efforts will result in sequestering the equivalent of between 200,054 and 507,871 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually through 2050. At a minimum that is the equivalent of taking more than 120,874 gas-powered vehicles off the road each year.

Your legal and organizational skills will provide necessary support to accomplish this project and our broader mission to preserve the land and waters on which all life depends. As Senior Paralegal you will work with other members of the legal team to acquire and protect conservation real property, review grant agreements that fund our work, and draft and revise contracts for implementing nature-based solutions to climate change. You’ll have exceptional communication and organizational skills, be self-motivated, detail oriented, able to multi-task, track and complete many items simultaneously and have great customer service skills! You will work closely with legal team members based primarily in Virginia, but also supporting other team members in North Carolina and will work Eastern time zone working hours. Preference will be given to applicants located in North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia as there will be opportunities to engage with the project team in person. While this is a remote position, hybrid options may also be available based on candidate location.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING

Bachelor’s degree plus at least 5 years of combined legal and administrative experience OR equivalent qualifications acquired through coursework and/or related job experience that demonstrates (i) assumption of significant responsibilities for supporting and coordinating complex or specialized legal work and (ii) ability to engage in legal analysis.

Legal experience with real estate transactions.

Experience conducting research on the Internet and in other legal resources.

Attention to detail and organizational skills.

Experience in project and/or process management for efficient workflow.

Experience with MS Office (Word, Excel, etc.), enterprise file management solutions such as iManage, and any other relevant technology.

Communication, critical thinking, writing, editing and proofreading skills, including experience editing and drafting legal documents.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Legal experience with contracts and grants (private and/or governmental).

Legal experience with large scale land acquisitions.

Experience working with cross-functional teams in a decentralized organization.

As Oregon’s only statewide land use watchdog, 1000 Friends works with Oregonians to improve our quality of life by building livable and lovable cities and towns, protecting family farms and forests, and conserving natural areas. 1000 Friends achieves these efforts by building power with Oregonians across the state through land use policy research, advocacy, mentorship and programming, coalition-building, and enforcement. And, as a result of these efforts, Oregonians continue to take care of the only statewide watchdog; the majority of funding, year after year, comes from individual donations.

In 2023, Oregon faces similar pressures to those of the 1960s and 70s: historic amounts of federal stimulus dollars for jobs, transportation, housing, and energy projects. The pressure to irreversibly pave over our farms, forests, and watersheds mounts. But, 1000 Friends is built to work with communities to guide these dollars in ways that improve our quality of life for generations to come. Oregonians continue the strong tradition of resisting pitting two good things against each other like our environment vs. jobs. We continue to show we can build a diversified economy of the future and ground ourselves in nature.

We rely on membership and public events and surveys to ensure we are responding to the most timely issues. We also incorporate polling results. For example, 68% of respondents hope Oregon will limit the construction of new homes in fire-prone areas. Oregon Values and Beliefs Center Survey, June 29, 2022. 71% of Oregonians said they would oppose allowing local governments to permit housing developments in areas currently protected as farm and forestlands. DHM Research, March 16, 2023.

Position Description

The Staff Attorney works with individuals and organizations across the state to ensure that Oregon’s land use laws are implemented legally at the local and state levels. This involves providing technical and legal advice and, when appropriate, legal representation to clients. The Staff Attorney’s workload includes cases inside and outside of urban growth boundaries, including urban growth boundary expansion proposals, and the Staff Attorney works to protect farm, forest, and ranch lands and natural resources.

This person works collaboratively with the other staff attorneys and members of the Working Lands team and Great Communities team within 1000 Friends of Oregon to identify fact patterns calling for strategic litigation and to identify existing laws and administrative rules that should be changed to improve and strengthen the land use program. This includes providing technical assistance to other staff as needed in drafting or responding to any proposed legislation and rules.

The Staff Attorney will also collaborate with the 1000 Friends Communications staff to publicize when land use laws are being abused, to demonstrate the benefits to all Oregonians of the land use program, and to advocate for proper implementation of Oregon’s land use laws.

Essential Functions

Legal Services

Strategically review local proposals and applications for changes to city and county comprehensive plans, including UGB expansion proposals and related amendments.

Develop testimony for and participate in local land use proceedings in cities and counties throughout Oregon. • Manage a docket of local comments and appeals.

Litigate land use cases and enforcement actions at the Land Use Board of Appeals, the Department of Land Conservation and Development, the Oregon Court of Appeals, the Oregon Supreme Court, and, if needed, the Oregon Circuit Court.

Work with local land use activists, organizations, and Affiliated groups as relevant in carrying out the above responsibilities.

Policy Development

As needed, assist the Senior Staff Attorney and other staff to develop legislative concepts and draft bill language, administrative rule language, and local ordinances to strengthen the land use planning program and its implementation.

Assist, as needed, other staff during legislative sessions to evaluate and comment on proposed bills impacting rural lands. Outreach and Education

In collaboration with other staff, provide education and outreach presentations to local Affiliates and members of the public, to increase capacity for advocacy.

Collaborate with other staff to develop outreach strategies and materials and on communications and media relations.

Other duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications

J.D. and active membership in the Oregon State Bar.

Commitment to the goals and vision of 1000 Friends of Oregon.

Knowledge of legal research methods.

Strong analytical ability and technical and persuasive writing skills.

Self-directed, self-motivated, organized, and attentive to detail.

Strong public speaking skills.

Assertive, persistent, and effective in working and with public officials and staff.

Ability to work as part of a team.

Valid driver’s license and safe driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with land use law and the Land Use Board of Appeals.

Litigation experience before the Land Use Board of Appeals, Oregon Appellate Courts and/or in Oregon circuit courts.

Experience working in the non-profit sector.

The Sheridan, Wyoming based Powder River Basin Resource Council is a respected and effective member-led organization in its fiftieth year of working on behalf of Wyoming’s air, land, and water, its people and its non-human residents. Our commitments are to: the preservation and enrichment of our agricultural heritage and rural identity; the conservation of our land, water, air, and mineral resources consistent with the responsible use of those resources to sustain the web of life of which we are a part; and the education and empowerment of our residents such that each one of us can participate in making the decisions that shape our environment and our communities.

Our new executive director will join a financially strong organization with a grassroots base and committed knowledgeable board members who work with the organization’s staff to advance our members’ priorities. We are excited to work with our new executive director to chart a strategic direction for the next fifty years, to update our staff structure, and to rebuild our team following staff departures in 2024. This is a time of growth and opportunity at Powder River.

P O S I T I O N S U M M A R Y

The executive director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization. The director leads our staff and works with the board to plan the long-term direction, priorities, and policies of Powder River. This means developing relationships with and between staff and board members, community members, individual and organizational funders, and a wide variety of community organizations. While the position is based in Sheridan, Wyoming where the organization’s office is located, travel and weekend work are sometimes required. In addition to the responsibilities listed below, the executive director is sometimes asked to carry out other duties as assigned by the board of directors

P O S I T I O N R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S

As to Leadership and Values

building relationships of trust with Powder River’s staff, board, members, and allies;
creating with the board and staff strategic planning that engages our members and Wyoming’s residents to plan for the future;
seeing the big picture–envisioning long-term possibilities with a focus on goals as much as on tasks;
bringing community organizing values to our conversations along with strong facilitating skills and a commitment to building consensus;
honoring and promoting member-leaders as spokespeople for the organization and as visible leaders and voices for Powder River with funders and in broader coalitions;

With the Board

reporting to and working as a partner with Powder River’s board to ensure strong governance policies and fiscal health;
cultivating the development of an engaged board equipped with necessary information, shared understanding and analysis of issues, and ownership of the organization;
bringing policy recommendations to the board, engaging the board in strategic decisions;
preparing with the board chair meeting agendas and materials, the time and place of meetings, as well as assisting the chair in planning and facilitating meetings to encourage participation, open discussion, the freedom to question, and consensual decision-making;
ensuring that the board chair and board are conversant with ongoing issues and campaigns;
serving as liaison to board committees;
informing the board of management changes and areas where staff needs assistance;
implementing board decisions and communicating these to the general membership.

With the staff

ensuring equity in staff hiring, training, development, supervision, and dismissal
developing with staff ongoing work plans and assignments;
delegating and sharing staff responsibilities;

overseeing practices to update staff structure when needed so as to strengthen internal relations to increase our impact and sustainability;
implementing personnel policies and conducting regular staff evaluations so as to mentor individuals and help them work as effectively as possible.

With financial matters

ensuring that the organization is fiscally sound and financially healthy;
preparing with the board’s Finance Committee the yearly budget to ensure that financial resources are used effectively and appropriately in advancing Powder River’s mission, strategies, and priorities, and to monitor and report on the budget throughout the year;

overseeing the fundraising strategy and annual internal and external fundraising plans and campaigns to support sustainable funding necessary to carry out our work, including preparing and submitting grant proposals and reports;
coordinating with the office administrator membership development and renewal;
maintaining with the office administrator proper accounting procedures and the filing of required financial reports;
ensuring that all activities maintain the organization’s 501(c)3 status.

With outside organizations

representing Powder River at the Western Organization of Resource Council’s staff meetings and trainings;
participating in professional development seminars and reporting to the board as to how such training can be used in the workplace;
speaking and writing on behalf of Powder River with members, Wyoming individuals and community representatives, government agencies, elected officials, and industry representatives;
guiding Powder River’s work at the state legislature.

T H E K I N D O F P E R S O N W E S E E K

Powder River is looking for candidates who value grassroots community organizing and embrace our mission and history. The work is complex, requiring a person with both patience and drive, one who understands others, feels sympathy and affection for people, listens well in order to help people work through disagreements and build trust so as to come together. Because we sometimes work with groups that are not always supportive of our work, that may even be hostile to our work, the director will be called on to reconcile competing or conflicting views for the benefit of our communities and our environment. Powder River has entered its fiftieth year of working on behalf of Wyoming’s air, land, and water, its people and its non-human residents. Our director needs to be committed to the next fifty years. The successful applicant will:

care deeply about Powder River’s mission and issues and work hard on their behalf;
have a background in community organizing, financial planning, and management;
have substantial experience leading a mid-size organization, including in the areas of staff management, board engagement, and foundation and grassroots fundraising;

speak and write well to clearly communicate vision, values, goals, and strategies for various audiences;
think strategically at the individual, team, organization, network, and movement levels to set and implement goals;
have experience advancing public policy campaigns;
work with and cultivate a deeply engaged board of directors, including supporting leadership development and facilitating transparent, informed, shared decision-making;
have professional or other experience in Wyoming and/or rural communities.

S A L A R Y A N D B E N E F I T S

Starting salary ranges from $75,000 to $85,000 per year according to experience and background. Powder River offers to staff members a benefits package that includes health, vision, and dental insurance, flex time, paid vacation and holidays, parental leave, paid professional development sabbatical leaves after each five years of service, contributions to a SIMPLE-IRA retirement plan, and at the completion of fifteen years of employment with Powder River, an end of service bonus plan.

The Digital Communications Specialist, Political Affairs will lead digital communications efforts for EDF’s Political Affairs team, writing, editing, producing, and capturing video and still content for key digital media platforms. This role will support project management on a variety of digital communication campaigns including coordinating with EDF’s Marketing and Communications Team, Political Affairs staff and partners. The Communications Specialist’s goal will be to help the communications team create impactful digital media content, contributing to the work of developing and implementing a message that supports EDF’s mission.

The Digital Communications Specialist will report to the Senior Communications Manager, Advocacy and work as part of the Political Affairs communications team, helping to achieve EDF and EDF Action’s policy objectives. The position will be hybrid, based in Washington, D.C.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leverage approved messages to implement a video-first, multi-platform social media strategy to support the policy goals of the Political Affairs team.
Respond to breaking news and legislative events with creative digital content using photography, vertical video content creation, video editing tools, including new mobile-specific software or apps that are geared towards specific mobile platforms.
Monitor social media trends, current news, and popular culture to adapt strategies to increase reach and engagement.
Design graphics for use in social media and other materials.
Participate in advancing EDF Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organizational challenges in alignment with EDF’s values.
Draft social media copy for the Political Affairs team and coalition partners and other materials as needed.
Support digital communication requests from the EDF legislative, field and state-based teams.
Provide strategic guidance for digital tactics for communications plans for campaign and program activities.
Analyze and create reports on the effectiveness of social media campaigns to keep the organization and partners informed.
Monitor and analyze activity across all social platforms including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube to ensure we are responding to political opportunities and threats.
Assist with paid advertising campaigns and the organization of related elements.
Additional relevant responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Associate degree or equivalent in a relevant field, with at least 3 years of experience developing, managing, and executing digital communications strategies preferably in the advocacy context. A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent may substitute for up to 2 years of relevant experience. College, non-working and internship experience will be considered.
Strong video and graphic production skills and experience.
Experience managing scheduling processes using social media platforms and tools.
Excellent writing, proofing and editing skills with the ability to translate complex policy ideas for a variety of audiences.
Demonstrates self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Ability to adapt to frequent change and prioritize multiple tasks effectively under deadline pressure.
Willingness to occasionally work irregular hours to capture and produce content and get digital media content online.
Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Background or strong knowledge of climate and energy issues and their political context.
Practical, real-world experience in environmental, political, legislative or advocacy media and communications.
Experience producing content in Kapwing and Adobe’s suite of products.
Experience working on local and/or statewide digital communications campaigns.

New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (New Jersey LCV) is the leading bi-partisan, environmental non-profit organization in New Jersey that protects our precious natural resources by raising awareness of key environmental challenges; increasing the efficacy of the environmental community; helping elect environmentally responsible candidates to state and local offices; advocating for strong environmental policies; and ensuring accountability to safeguard the health of our communities, the beauty of our state, and the strength of our economy.

We are committed to and incorporate in all our work, the goal of helping establish a just, inclusive, and equitable environment for New Jersey. We work with, learn from, and support overburdened and low- income communities to publicly educate, co‐create social change, and advocate for environmentally just policies.

We seek an experienced individual who is excited about working with and helping lead dynamic Policy and Campaigns teams, and brings significant, relevant experience that will help them shape the policy and campaign initiatives we undertake. Someone who is also motivated, an excellent communicator and experienced advocating for and building relationships, as well as passionate about our mission will thrive. This job offers an opportunity to work with a strong, successful team that is committed to a better, more equitable future. It will offer you both growth challenges and inspiration, and you’ll know you will be making a real difference.

Responsibilities:

Work with the Deputy Director to develop and execute strategic and comprehensive policy, grant, project, outreach campaigns, and program plans, including but not limited to the following initiatives:
Flood Defense Coalition to address stormwater from legacy development by inspiring communities to invest in green infrastructure to clean up polluted runoff.
Clean Energy policy efforts facilitating statewide action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand renewable energy, and establish the most aggressive renewable goals in the nation.
Support the formulation of the Common Agenda for the Environment legislative priorities, with input from a diverse array of partner organizations, members, staff and the Board of Directors.
Advance racially just environmental, public health and voting rights policies.
Research legislative proposals, analyze pending legislation and make recommendations to support conservation;
Communicate legislative priorities to elected officials, track voting records, and maintain contact lists
Write policy briefs for staff, one-pagers for partners, legislative and regulatory testimony, vote recommendations, coalition sign-on letters, and other policy materials on a wide range of issues
Lead coalitions of other environmental groups and sit on other coalitions, representing New Jersey LCV, as assigned
Work with Deputy Director and development staff to design and write future programs and funding proposals
Support the New Jersey LCV Political Action Committee and/or Victory Fund, including helping develop campaign plans, working with consultants, strategically implementing plans, and helping secure required funds to support robust electoral campaigns to elect environmental champions and defeat foes
Assist in the development, implementation and management of communications and campaign outreach strategies and plans to educate the public and legislators on key priorities
Provide preparation and support for meetings and media events scheduled for the Deputy Director, including writing talking points, preparing presentations and ensuring timely and proper correspondence and follow-up from Deputy Director with elected officials and partner organizations
Staff the New Jersey LCV Board Political Committee and Policy Committee;
Provide back up to Deputy and Executive Directors as requested, representing the organization at meetings and events
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Commitment to bold climate and justice policy, and strong understanding of environmental issues
Knowledge of the legislative process and political landscape of New Jersey
Experience directing, managing and participating in coalitions
Experience recruiting, managing, and working with volunteers, consultants and staff
Demonstrated ability to work accurately under pressure, meet deadlines and manage high volume workload
Strong written and oral communication skills
Adept and strong research skills
Excellent personal organizational and time management skills
Commitment to racial justice and equity
Personable, dependable team player
Some sporadic evening and weekend event attendance may be required; real-time access to a vehicle and valid driver’s license will be necessary

Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 range, depending upon experience and candidate qualifications, and a robust, comprehensive benefits package are offered. Ranges are based on an external and organizational wage analysis, noting that new staff rarely start at the top of a range.

The Heinrich Böll Foundation, Washington, DC, is welcoming applications for our Climate & Environmental Policy Program Director position.

The Climate & Environmental Policy program seeks to advance green ideas in the fight against climate change, advocate for climate and environmental justice, and facilitate transatlantic exchange on how to win a sustainable future. The program fosters transatlantic dialogue in support of a low carbon economy agenda, with a particular focus on renewable energies and community engagement. Through expert analysis, workshops, study tours, coordinated policy work, and publications, the program brings together policymakers and civil society organizations from the US/Canada and Germany/Europe to advance a just transition to a sustainable future. Rooted in the global green movement, the program’s approach has a unique emphasis on gender, racial, socioeconomic, and intergenerational justice.

Responsibilities

The Program Director is responsible for all program-related activities. Specifically, she/he/they will:

Design the strategic vision for the program’s goals and activities, in close coordination with the executive director and other program directors
Monitor energy, climate, and environmental policies in the US, Canada, Germany, and the European Union and provide expert analysis to policymakers, media, and civil society organizations on both sides of the Atlantic
Organize and implement the program’s activities, including conferences, workshops, study tours, publications, and visitor programs
Connect policymakers and civil society organizations in the US, Canada, and Germany/Europe for transatlantic exchanges on energy, climate, and environmental policy
Manage program funds in close cooperation with the finance manager, including budget planning, expense monitoring, and project evaluation
Prepare annual reports on program activities
Maintain the program’s landing page and contribute to the team’s social media presence, in close coordination with the Head of Communications

Required Qualifications

Oral and written fluency in English
Relevant graduate degree
Relevant work and/or academic experience
Strong grasp of US, German, and European climate and energy policies
Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail
Creative, self-directed, and responsible work attitude
Appreciation for working in international and culturally diverse team settings
Sensitivity for issues of gender equality, racial justice, and intersectionality
Genuine interest in the values and mission of the green movement and the Heinrich Böll Foundation

Preferred Qualifications

Having the qualifications below will strengthen an application. However, candidates without these qualifications are still welcome to apply.

Oral and written fluency in German
Strong public speaking skills and experience moderating/speaking on panels, in media interviews, and other public fora
An understanding of German and/or European green movements and parties, and a network of relevant connections
Relevant connections to the US and/or Canadian climate and environmental movements
Proven research, writing, and editing skills
Experience in managing a program budget

Note on work experience: program directors come with different levels of job experience. Successful candidates tend to have a minimum of 5 years of work experience. However, we welcome applications from candidates with more and less experience and adjust salaries accordingly.

The Environmental Justice (EJ) program uses a community-based lawyering approach to respond to environmental injustices throughout the South. SCSJ’s EJ program advocates for and empowers impacted communities through community legal education, strategic counseling, and litigation on a wide range of issues including zoning and land use, air and water pollution, energy equity, and climate resilience. Given the often-intersectional nature of the harms that burden the communities SCSJ supports, the EJ program’s work often overlaps with that of the Voting Rights and Justice System Reform program areas.
Position Summary:

The Senior Counsel for Environmental Justice will litigate cases, develop case strategies, advise clients, and work with state and federal policymakers to improve environmental justice outcomes for communities across the South.
Responsibilities Include:

Litigating cases in state and federal courts, including developing and implementing case strategy, conducting legal and fact-finding research, drafting pleadings, briefs, and other documents, conducting discovery and depositions, and representing clients in court and administrative proceedings.

Meeting with clients to ensure program projects and priorities are consistently responsive to community-driven need.

Managing multidisciplinary matters, including developing and implementing project plans involving and leveraging SCSJ’s research and communications teams.

Building SCSJ’s Environmental Justice program by combating community contamination, addressing zoning & land use issues, promoting energy equity, and advancing climate justice & resilience.

Expanding and deepening Environmental Justice program’s network by attending community events and conferences related to environmental justice in the South.

Supporting partner organizations and community-led coalitions.

Required Qualifications:

Extensive experience serving as the primary attorney at all stages of litigation

Excellent communication skills and experience fostering client relationships

Extensive and effective settlement and negotiation experience

Strong affinity and capability for mentoring newer attorneys

Ability to work independently with a strong work ethic and sense of initiative

A vision for the continued growth of SCSJ’s Environmental Justice program

An unwavering commitment to SCSJ’s work and community-based lawyering model

Admitted or eligible for admission to practice law in at least one state in SCSJ’s service region

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

In-depth familiarity with state and/or federal environmental statutes and regulatory implementation, including litigation experience, in one or more of the following subject areas:
Clean air permitting and enforcement
Water quality, water pollution, and/or water rights
Utilities Commission proceedings and/or clean energy topics
Tribal sovereignty issues
Solid and hazardous waste management

Experience in zoning and land use litigation or other urban policy or rural development education or experience

Facility with e-discovery

Demonstrated commitment to social justice, civil rights, and/or environmental justice work

Spanish or other second language proficiency is a plus

Duration and Start Date:

This is a full-time position. Starting dates are negotiable. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Salary and Benefits:

The Senior Counsel for Environmental Justice starting salary is $95,000 per year, commensurate with experience and includes comprehensive health and retirement plans.

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans waves and beaches. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 50,000 volunteer members and 80 chapters in the United States dedicated to beach preservation, water quality, beach access, coastal adaptation and protecting special coastal places. As an environmental organization, first and foremost, the organization’s activities are conducted with the intent to protect the coastal and nearshore ocean environment.

The summer legal Internship is open to current law school students in their second year (for the summer between 2L and 3L year), and is located remotely, or on a hybrid-remote basis at Surfrider’s headquarters in San Clemente, California. Interns will assist the Legal Department and staff, which consists of a variety of ocean policy experts, researching issues involving litigation and legislation at the forefront of ocean policy governance. The position is designed to provide a wide range of legal, programmatic, and administrative experience relating to environmental and coastal issues of national significance, as well as issues relating to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Interns will be expected to provide detailed legal research, writing, and general support for our campaigns. The internship program covers a diverse range of issues affecting our beaches, from the public trust doctrine to the Clean Water Act, and is a wonderful opportunity for law students dedicated to coastal law and policy.

Interns will be expected to work 40 hours per week for 10 weeks during the summer and will be offered a stipend, amount TBD, comparable to other non-profit organizations. Qualified candidates will possess strong writing, research, legal analysis, and communication skills. Demonstrated commitment to coastal preservation and other experience relevant to Surfrider Foundation’s mission is preferable.

This professional-level position is responsible for developing, overseeing, and implementing assigned Defenders’ strategic plan conservation goals and objectives in the Northwest, with a focus on implementing the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and improving various state and federal lands management and environmental laws, policies and plans to protect and recover imperiled species and mitigate threats impacting them. As such, this position fulfills Defenders’ mission to protect all native wild animals and plants in their natural communities. This is a full-time, nonsupervisory position with potential opportunities to manage contracts and intern projects.
The Representative will design and lead initiatives to proactively protect and recover imperiled species and mitigate threats using a variety of approaches including advocacy; project review and comment; decision-maker and public outreach; coalition building; project development and implementation; application of best available science; and litigation. Key strategies to achieve these goal(s) involve: engaging with state and federal agencies and decision-makers to advance conservation initiatives; developing and promoting improved wildlife policies; building coalitions and partnerships to establish appropriate prioritization, resourcing and science-led application of conservation initiatives; and engaging with communities to empower and equip them with knowledge, skills, and tools to contribute to conservation initiatives. Program objectives are achieved by collaborating with a variety of partners including state and federal agencies and officials, Tribes and other conservation and community organizations. This position requires an ability to maintain productive working relationships with community leaders and decision makers. This position requires knowledge and experience in wildlife biology and conservation; pertinent best practices in the field; strategic plans and their implementation; advocacy in the private, public and governmental sectors; public outreach; media relations, fundraising and project evaluation.
The Representative serves the 2 state Northwest region, though primarily Washington State. The Representative will collaborate closely with the Northwest Senior Advisor and Senior Alaska & Northwest Director to develop strategy and set priorities, and along with other Northwest staff, to implement and communicate outcomes. The Representative is also expected to collaborate with other Defenders programs and departments (e.g. Landscape Conservation and Climate Adaptation, Center for Conservation Innovation, Biodiversity Law Center, Communications, Marketing, Government Relations, and other regional Field Conservation Programs) and lead inter-department and external working groups when opportunities arise.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist with the development of assigned strategic and annual work plans of the Northwest Program, contribute to the achievement of the goals and milestones therein, including implementation of key strategies. The focus will be on species listed under the ESA and state listings, apex predators and keystone species; initiatives related to climate change adaptation, habitat connectivity and restoration; fostering the participation, engagement and decision-making of diverse communities in these conservation issues.
Identify key information relating to policy, strategy, and decision-making, and communicate it as appropriate and in a timely manner to the Director and other relevant field and headquarters staff members.
Actively promote and develop Defenders’ work in the Northwest through best available science, field-based projects, presentation of testimony and formal comments on pertinent state and federal proposed policies, direct engagement with decision-makers and community leaders and representatives, and media development. These tasks will be accomplished using a wide range of strategies including:
Reviewing, recommending and facilitating species recovery, critical habitat restoration projects as appropriate.
Initiating partnerships and developing and implementing activities with diverse communities to advance conservation goals.
Participating in direct and grassroots lobbying of the U.S. Congress and state legislatures and agencies.
Advocating before state fish and wildlife commissions.
Recommending litigation where appropriate and providing technical support.
Recommending reforming or modernizing state wildlife agencies and commissions where appropriate.
Engage with Northwest Program and other regional program staff to develop and execute conservation initiatives for endangered species, apex predators and keystone species as assigned.
Work with other Northwest Program staff to mobilize a broader constituency to advance the conservation goals by:
Facilitating and promoting the integration of diversity, equity and inclusion strategies into Defenders’ programmatic and outreach work in the Northwest.
Working closely with Communications and Marketing staff to develop relevant local messaging and storytelling (through alerts, blogs, videos, publications, etc.) to promote conservation and coexistence to a wide audience including rural and urban communities, current and prospective members, and decision makers.
Working closely with Northwest Program staff to engage and grow our regional base of members and supporters – including identifying how our programs can better include communities historically marginalized by the conservation movement.
Working with Development staff to provide information to funders and help identify and develop potential sources of funding to support local coexistence work.
Serving as a spokesperson for Defenders on Northwest wildlife and habitat conservation issues and community engagement; represent Defenders and Defenders’ interests to the public, the media, and key decision-makers, and in working groups, committees, and processes.
Collaborate with other Defender’s staff and departments as needed to further Defenders’ mission.
Perform all other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor’s (B.A./B.S.) degree or equivalent
Experience: 4 years of relevant experience
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities for Northwest Representative

Knowledge and experience in advocacy in the private, public and governmental sectors; public outreach; media relations; and fundraising, with strong ties to the larger conservation community.
Knowledge and experience in a broad array of natural resource conservation issues, such as endangered species policy, federal land management policy, landscape level planning and conservation biology as well as by staying informed on relevant science and best practices.
Strong oral advocacy skills, superior writing and research skills with attention to detail to anticipate, share knowledge and make recommendations on practices and policy issues impacting wildlife.
Experience with coalitions, convening diverse stakeholders in collaborative activities and productively working with opponents on environmental, land management and species- specific issues.
Experience with community building to elevate public awareness of issues and build a constituency for solutions.
Ability to exercise appropriate judgment in response to rapid change and complex situations.
Personal interest in and demonstrated commitment to wildlife conservation as well as the holistic success of the Program Team.

Boston Government Services, LLC (BGS) is seeking a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Specialist to support our clients at Washington, D.C.

BGS is an engineering, technology, and security firm helping to advance missions of national importance for government programs, national laboratories, national security facilities, nuclear operations, and complex projects. We support clients at every stage, from strategic planning and program management to the execution of engineering and technical activities. We work to attract and retain the best talent because the best talent delivers the best results for our clients. Our capabilities are based on our experience in complex, secure, and highly regulated environments. We leverage our experience and capabilities to provide mission-driven solutions tuned to our client’s mission needs and strategic direction.

Responsibilities:

Conduct NEPA and environmental compliance reviews, provide technical review and analysis of existing preliminary documents to support drafts of the following documents: NEPA Categorical Exclusion (CX) Determinations, Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), Supplement Analyses, Sufficiency Reviews, Mitigation Action Plans and Interim Action analyses. This may include drafting documents for public meetings or public hearings.
Perform an environmental analysis of recipient information and data and use this data to develop draft NEPA determinations. This may include data gathering and data clarification with Technology Project Officer and project recipients, using Google Earth, other federal agency maps, outreach and possible consultation with other federal agencies.
Attend and document the results of assigned meetings, hearings and phone calls to include but not limited to: NEPA meetings, hearings, and conference calls; public scoping meetings, information meetings and public hearings on an EIS or EA; conduct phone interviews with recipients and/or contractors preparing NEPA documents; and support NEPA personnel in Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Requirements Document meetings, concept paper reviews, development of draft Statement of Project Objectives, and development of NEPA provisions for award terms and conditions as requested.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field (project management, sustainable energy, earth science, energy management, or other related discipline).
>5 years’ experience.
Knowledgeable of NEPA and crosscutting environmental laws, regulations, policies and guidance applicable to the preparation of NEPA documents and associated environmental reports.
Excellent communication skills – verbal and written.
Professional attitude.
Strong attention to detail.
Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint.
Self-starter, an ability to work both independently and as part of a highly dynamic collaborative team.
Ability to balance multiple long and short-term projects and competing priorities.
Comfortable switching between projects of various levels of urgency and handling new projects as they arise.
Must be US citizen.
Successful drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledgeable of NEPA requirements and proficient in the preparation of Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impact Statements.
Proficient in consulting with federal, state and local regulatory agencies.
Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills.
Experience working with multiple federal agencies and State Historic Preservation Officers.
Creative problem solving.

Location/Work Arrangement:

This position is a Hybrid Work Arrangement at (Washington, D.C.) with some travel/onsite requirements.