Director of Government Relations

The Director of Government Relations is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of the Coastal Conservation League’s (CCL) advocacy strategies at the state and local levels. This position involves working closely with government officials, private groups, and community stakeholders to influence policy decisions that advance the organization’s conservation agenda. The Director will serve as the primary liaison between the CCL and various governmental entities and coalitions, while mobilizing grassroots support for key legislative priorities.

Essential Functions:

Advocacy Strategy & Government Relations:

Develop and execute advocacy strategies to influence state and local policy decisions that support the conservation of South Carolina’s natural resources.
Monitor, analyze, and track relevant legislation, policies, and regulations; attend hearings, workgroups, and meetings as needed.
Act as the primary liaison between the Coastal Conservation League and federal, state, and government agencies, elected officials, and private groups, advocating for policy positions that further conservation goals.
Provide information and briefings to government officials and other stakeholders on the League’s policy positions and priorities.

Policy Influence & Research:

Influence policy and decision-making to advance the League’s conservation goals, including coastal land protection, water resource management, and climate resilience.
Conduct policy analysis and research to support advocacy efforts and draft responses to policy issues that impact the League’s mission.
Draft briefing materials, legislative reports, talking points, and one-page handouts to communicate policy priorities to stakeholders.

Coalition Building & Partnerships:

Build and maintain strategic partnerships with government agencies, conservation organizations, business associations, and industry stakeholders to advance legislative and policy objectives.
Serve as the organization’s representative in key coalitions and build diverse coalitions to further legislative and grant goals.
Coordinate member testimony, legislative visits, and workgroup meetings, and plan and participate in key events.

Public & Media Engagement:

Collaborate with the communications team to develop and implement advocacy campaigns that build the League’s profile and generate media support for key initiatives.
Build support for the League’s policy goals by engaging businesses, industry groups, and donors to activate their networks in support of conservation objectives.

Internal Collaboration & Leadership:

Work with program staff to align advocacy strategies with conservation goals and assist in coalition building to achieve legislative victories.
Provide updates to the Executive Director and board of directors on policy developments and advocacy efforts.
Other duties as assigned.

Authorities:

The Director of Government Relations has the authority to work with staff in order to craft/determine policy positions and participate in negotiations on behalf of Coastal Conservation League in order to advance Coastal Conservation League’s mission.
Responsible for supervising contracted lobbyists and legislative program staff.

Competencies:

Effective negotiation and communication skills when working with government officials, community leaders, and diverse stakeholders.
Ability to manage and lead a team, including external lobbyists, and engage partners to advance legislative priorities.
Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex policy issues into clear, concise communications.
Excels in directing or participating in complex negotiations and presenting to and communicating with government officials, corporate executives, board members and others.
Ability to work with partners/government agencies without violating any restrictions related to conflicts of interest, lobbying former employers, or influencing decision makers.
Effective public speaker.
Extensive knowledge of policy and regulatory issues.
Experience using social media and web based communication tools.
Ability to work with a diverse set of interest groups.
Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects covering a diverse set of issues.
Ability to communicate complicated subject matter in a clear and concise way.
Ability to organize public opposition and support at the community and state level around priority issues.
Effective management skills.
Proficient computer skills.
Excellent reading and writing skills.
Proficient research skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and navigating online research and communication tools.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, public policy, political science, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
7-10+ years of experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy, with demonstrated success in navigating the state and federal legislative processes.
Extensive knowledge of South Carolina’s political landscape, especially in coastal conservation, environmental policy, and rural-urban dynamics.
Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects covering diverse issues.

Preferred Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in a related field.
Experience in conservation funding mechanisms and understanding South Carolina’s conservation-related social and political dynamics.
Demonstrated success in presenting to government officials, corporate executives, or program leadership, with the ability to negotiate and navigate complex political landscapes.

Work Environment

The position operates in a professional office environment located in Columbia, SC.

Assistant General Counsel I or II

Job Summary: This is professional work providing legal counsel and services in support of the District’s regulatory program. Prior experience in rulemaking or litigation is a plus.

This position may be filled at the level of an Assistant General Counsel I or Assistant General Counsel II depending upon the selected candidate’s qualifications.

Job duties include:

Provide legal advice to District staff and Governing Board regarding the interpretation and application of relevant law and policy to the District’s permitting, water supply planning, and regulatory enforcement programs;
Research, review, and interpret laws, regulations, and policies affecting the District’s regulatory program;
Provides legal advice and editorial assistance in reviewing technical staff reports regarding permit applications;
Reviews conservation easements, deed restrictions, financial assurance and operation and maintenance documents submitted by applicants;
Reviews and drafts consent agreements resolving violations of regulatory rules;
Provides legal support in regulatory rulemaking;
Serve as legal counsel for the District in judicial and administrative proceedings, including propounding and responding to written discovery, engaging in motion practice, taking and defending depositions of expert witnesses, attending mediation and settlement conferences, drafting trial and appellate briefs and post-hearing recommendations, participating in oral argument, presenting testimony and conducting cross-examination, and assisting with overall litigation strategy for hearings and trials in circuit court, federal court, and/or the Division of Administrative Hearings; and
Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

The Assistant General Counsel I requires a juris doctor from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association and admission to the Florida Bar. Candidates who are awaiting admission to the Florida Bar or are preparing to graduate from an ABA-accredited law school and intend to sit for the Florida Bar Examination in the current year will also be considered.

The Assistant General Counsel II requires admission to the Florida Bar and two years of experience as a licensed attorney in civil litigation, administrative, environmental, governmental, real property, or contract law. A Master of Laws (LLM) from an accredited law school may substitute for one year of the required experience.

Climate Action Coordinator

Primary purpose:
The City of Newton has a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. While reaching this goal requires effort from all City departments, residents, and businesses, about 60% of the City’s greenhouse gas emissions come from residential buildings and personal vehicles. The role of the Climate Action Coordinator is to focus on decarbonization of the residential sector, while also coordinating other climate action work happening around the City. The Climate Action Coordinator works as part of a team, and the work varies depending on the changing focus of the team at different times.

Supervision:
Supervision Received: Works under the general direction of the Co-Directors of Sustainability. Works according to City policies, procedures, laws, or special directives. Direct supervision is received as needed.

Supervision Given: May oversee and direct co-op or intern students, volunteers and/or grant-sponsored contractors.

Job Environment:

Administrative work is performed in an office environment in City Hall and remotely if/as City policy provides. Some work is performed outdoors at which time the incumbent may be exposed to hot and cold temperatures and inclement weather. The work environment may be moderately noisy. The Climate Action Coordinator may need to be in close proximity to moving mechanical equipment, heavy machinery, fumes and/or airborne particles. The incumbent is sometimes required to work outside of normal business hours, e.g., when attending evening meetings or weekend events. The Climate Action Coordinator must at times operate an automobile, computer, telephones, inspection equipment, and standard office machines.
The Climate Action Coordinator makes frequent contact with various community organizations, attorneys, engineers, surveyors, architects, city residents, City department employees, vendors, and state and federal agencies. Contacts are made by phone, in person, by E-mail, or by written correspondence.
The Climate Action Coordinator has access to confidential information regarding proposed projects and real estate developments. Considerable discretion with confidential information is required.

Essential Functions:
(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar to, related to, or a logical assignment for the position.)

Climate Action Plan Development and Tracking:

Take the lead in the development of periodic updates to the Newton Climate Action Plan, including leading an outreach and feedback process.
Take the lead in the creation of metrics, tracking, and reporting progress of Climate Action Plan activities.
Coordinate with other City departments to develop climate policies and procedures consistent with the Plan.
Develop programs with Newton Public Schools, universities, non-governmental agencies, and community groups to support implementation of the Plan.

Outreach and Coordination:

Design, develop, and disseminate outreach information and activities to promote, educate, and support residents with undertaking green building retrofits and new green building construction, building on the existing 4 for our Future campaign.
Participate in and train volunteers to participate in community events to publicize climate information and actions.
Work with community partners and consultants to develop branded materials such as banners, yard signs, flyers, etc.
Grow community knowledge of and engagement in Newton climate actions by regularly updating the climate action newsletter, social media, and City webpages.
Host the Newton Earth Day Festival and other events in coordination with community organizations.

Technical Expertise:

Knowledgeable with respect to best green building practices, energy technologies, services and incentives available for integrating green building practices into new construction and building retrofits.
Ability to perform website maintenance.
Familiar with the use of remote meeting software such as Zoom, Teams or other similar technologies.

Communications and Administrative

Manage the Newton Energy Coach program by supervising volunteer energy coaches and providing coaching assistance as necessary.
Serve as an interface among Newton residences and businesses, contractors, developers, City departments, and other groups.
Maintain and develop new relationships with utilities, contractors, grassroots organizations, state-level organizations, developers, designers, and other buildings professionals to maximize the implementation of green building practices in new construction and retrofits in the residential sector.

Policy Development

Assist with the development and implementation of City climate policies, including but not limited to BERDO and electrification.

Other: Assist with identifying, applying for, and implementing climate and energy grants, as they become available.
Administer the Green Communities requirements for the city including annual reporting and maintaining the Mass Energy Insight data platform.
Perform a variety of administrative and supervisory functions.
Perform similar or related work as required, or as the situation dictates.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental studies, engineering, economics, public policy, or related fields; two years of recent paid work experience related to the duties of the position and the knowledge, abilities and skills required; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Experience with Massachusetts agencies and programs involved in energy-related matters, e.g., the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, Mass Save, the Department of Energy Resources, and the Department of Public Utilities.
Experience with the development and implementation of climate action plans or other similar plans.

Special Requirements

Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license.

Independence and Judgment

Ability to independently take the initiative to develop materials and practices to efficiently execute many aspects of the Climate Action Plan for the City. Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in interactions with residents, property owners and governmental officials. Errors in judgment may result in significant delay or loss of department services and may cause financial and legal repercussions.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill

Knowledge: General knowledge of policies and current issues relating to green building practices; general knowledge of building energy efficiency rating systems such as HERS, Passive House, and others; and general knowledge of construction practices, methods, and materials.

Ability: Ability to clearly and effectively communicate in oral and written form with a wide variety of people of varying backgrounds and with differing knowledge bases. Ability to read and interpret plans, maps, laws, specifications, codes, bylaws and regulations. Ability to analyze, comprehend, and explain complex laws, ordinances, regulations and policies related to energy efficiency. Ability to prepare reports and recommendations applicable to community planning and economic development. Ability to speak in public in front of audiences of all sizes. Ability to work collegially as part of a team.

Skill: Excellent oral and written communications skills. Excellent skill with common computer software applications such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud. Cartographic skills in creating maps using GIS.

Director, Offshore Wind

Position Summary:

Reporting directly to the Senior Director, Climate Strategy the Director of Offshore Wind will lead the organization working collaboratively with the Climate team in meeting the goals of the Climate Strategy of the Flight Plan and resultant work plans in facilitating a rapid deployment of GigaWatts (GW) of well-sited and operated offshore wind that benefits climate, communities and conservation. The Director will represent Audubon’s science, conservation, and coastal and marine expertise in advocacy on federal and state planning processes, permitting under federal laws that protect birds, and selected priority projects in collaboration with industry, federal and state agencies, eNGO partners, front line community organizations and our Audubon Network of national and state offices, chapters and independent Audubon statewide organizations.

The Director will also represent Audubon to external audiences and funders, and provide connections to technical advice for local and regional offices. They must have a background in renewable energy siting and operating fundamentals including some expertise related to federal and state siting and leasing processes, best practices in using the mitigation hierarchy to address impacts – avoid the impact first, if the impact cannot be avoided then minimize the impact, and if the impact cannot be minimized then provide compensation to offset the loss. The Director will feel comfortable working through others, serve as a central connector for distributed work, and be a strong storyteller with an ability to aggregate across the strategy to share how this work supports organizational shared objectives to protect birds and biodiversity through offshore wind.

A knowledge and ability to understand, facilitate and engage in the latest research and science on offshore wind and birds and the places birds need is essential for Audubon’s reputation of science-based conservation and advocacy on offshore wind.

Essential Functions

Interact internally with Audubon’s climate and energy team, national and state coastal programs, federal state policy leads and our Climate communications team with the goal of meeting our Flight Plan milestone of 100GW of well-sited and operated renewables and transmission over the next four years

Collaborate externally with industry, federal and state agencies, research institutions, eNGO partners and commissions at the national and state level to promote efficiencies in planning, siting and permitting a rapid deployment of environmentally responsible offshore wind. We define offshore wind as environmentally responsible when it;

Avoids, minimizes, mitigates and monitors for adverse impacts on marine and coastal habitats and the wildlife that rely on them,

Minimizes negative impacts on other ocean uses

Includes robust consultation with Native American tribes and communities

Meaningfully engages state and local governments and Stakeholders from the outset

Includes comprehensive efforts to avoid negative impacts and provide benefits to underserved communities

Uses the best available scientific and technological data to ensure science-based and stakeholder-informed decision making.

Identify, support, and coordinate this work by and with internal teams at the national and state level to identify coordination opportunities, build partnerships across teams, and serve as a central contact point for offshore wind related engagements.

Represent Audubon in coalitions with other organizations focused on state and local based NCS offshore wind policy as needed.

Liaise with National and State staff to identify, understand, prioritize and support positive policy opportunities and/or to oppose harmful policy changes related to this strategy.

Effectively partner with the Senior Director and Development team in support of fundraising.

Work closely with Audubon’s communications team to tell the story of Audubon’s role in the rapid deployment of offshore wind effectively communicating complex policy issues and leasing and siting processes to non-technical audiences.

Use both qualitative and quantitative analysis to make the case for policy interventions and appropriate metrics.

Promote an organizational culture and structure that fosters cooperation, communication, collaboration, respect, teamwork, and trust.

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

Engage in personal development to enhance advocacy and communications skills.

Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.

Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.

Perform other job-related duties as assigned, to advance NAS’s climate strategy and goals.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in public policy advocacy, communications, federal ocean policy, or related field required; an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

10+ years’ progressive, professional experience in government relations, advocacy, public relations, development, and/or public service, including time spent leading successful policy and grassroots campaigns.

Working knowledge of impacts of climate change and climate solutions policy through renewable energy, strong connections with leading experts in the field and with funders of climate change work is plus.

Exceptional project management skills; including managing complex or multiple projects through to success, meeting project deadlines, and coordinating the work of key staff and partners.

A self-starter, one who is able to work collaboratively with staff at multiple career levels.

Proven record of building and activating diverse coalitions to successfully advance policy or program outcomes.

Experience working in a decentralized organization that coordinates strategies for both local and national legislative issues.

Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills that can be adapted to reach a wide range of individuals and used to build consensus. Ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other web-based products and ability to use ArcGIS Online or other GIS mapping programs in coordination with our data and science team.

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

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

Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs, and ability to traverse up to 5 miles on beach carrying spotting scope, binoculars, and daypack with or without accommodation. Must have a flexible approach to work, with a willingness to travel nationally as needed.

Government Relations Director

About Land Stewardship Project: Founded in 1982, LSP’s mission is to foster an ethic of stewardship for farmland, to promote sustainable agriculture, and to develop healthy communities. Our programs engage and serve the farming community to cultivate soil health; train and support new and emerging farmers: catalyze regional food systems; and increase access to land for small and mid-sized farmers. We translate the priorities of farmers into public policy, and advocate for programs and practices that further our mission. We think critically about the displacement and exclusion of people in agriculture based on race, gender and economic status, and we advocate for justice in farming and agriculture. Our sister organization, Land Stewardship Action (LSA), is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit that works in support of office holders and candidates who are in alignment with LSP’s vision.

Position Summary: The Government Relations Director is a new leadership position in LSP, holding primary responsibility to cultivate and sustain relationships with elected and appointed decision makers, and to develop and execute legislative strategy. Initial priority is on Minnesota State Legislature, Executive and Administrative structures and will extend to federal activity as opportunity and strategy dictate. The Government Relations Director collaborates with staff in organizing, communications, and other capacities to integrate legislative and administrative strategy with LSP’s other strengths. The Government Relations Director works with member-leaders, farmers and partner organizations to plan and deliver legislative and administrative tactics that further the objectives of LSP.

Essential Functions:

Serve as LSP primary representative in legislative and administrative decision-making venues.
Maintain open, collaborative communication within the organization to leverage capacities and resources in service of the organization’s objectives, and in the development of campaign plans, coordinated workplans, and member communications.
Build multi-year legislative and administrative strategies to achieve ambitious goals.
Establish and utilize strong relationships with networks and partners. Exercise strategic insight and judgement in cultivating shared purpose and action.
Ensure compliance with all laws and manage reporting requirements regarding lobbying activity for both LSP and LSA.

Supervisory Responsibilities: LSP may hire additional government relations staff, contract for lobbying assistance, and/or engage interns depending on need. The Government Relations Director will assist in determining that need and will supervise these positions as needed.

Necessary Skills/Education/Experience:

You have experience in government relations – Minimum two years professional experience working in a government relations role at the state or federal level.
You are a long-term, strategic thinker – Experienced in building and executing ambitious, multi-year legislative agendas.
You are a leader – Able to work independently, take initiative, and exercise sound judgement.
You are a persuasive communicator – An active listener and effective speaker, who understands the essential role that integrity and trust play in this professional function.
You know the subject matter- Familiar with agricultural practices and policy.
You are aligned with LSP’s mission – Committed to sustainable agriculture and food systems, the health and vibrancy of small/mid-sized farming operations, and rural community development.
You are committed to justice – A sound analysis of systemic barriers to accessing resources and opportunities in agriculture based on race, gender and economic status. A solutions-orientation for addressing those injustices.
You are team-oriented
Specific experience working collaboratively and across differences to achieve substantial outcomes.
You lower barriers to civic engagement – Familiar and comfortable with enlisting and engaging constituents, members, and partners in the work of building and exercising relationships with decision-makers.

Travel: Expected travel for rural office visits, field events and meetings, plus occasional out-of-state travel. Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, active registration and insurance. Mileage reimbursement is compensated at the federal standard.

Work Environment: This is a hybrid work position and will require work from the LSP Minneapolis office, work in the field, and work from home. This job requires substantial evening and weekend work in and around the Capitol in St Paul, Minnesota during the state legislative session. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and virtual conferencing technology. We will provide you with or support the technology necessary to complete your job duties.

Physical Demands: This role requires an active, physical presence in the Minnesota Capitol building complex. Other physical demands could include setting up for events and loading and unloading materials for presentations. This would require the ability to lift and carry at least 20 lbs, and bend or stand as necessary.

Campaign Manager

Vote Solar seeks a candidate based in Illinois who is passionate about implementing collaborative state based campaigns to advance equitable energy policy focused on maximizing the deployment of distributed energy resources, reducing our reliance on fossil gas, and ensuring BIPOC, frontline, low wealth and other systematically excluded groups have a voice in regulatory and legislative venues.

This position will report to the Deputy Program Director, Midwest and focus primarily on supporting campaign implementation in Illinois. In addition, at the direction of the Deputy Program Director, Midwest, this position will take on specific projects to support campaigns work across the region, including but not limited to the creation of assets such as social media and blog posts, and educational resources; or tracking legislative activity and trends across the region; as well as supporting the maintenance of team systems that support collaboration and achievement of regional team goals. The ideal candidate is a results-oriented person who excels at building relationships and managing complicated projects.

The Manager, Campaigns – IL role is funded through a grant and is currently approved for a one-year term. While there may be opportunities for extension based on future funding, continuation of the role beyond the one-year period is not guaranteed. Candidates should be comfortable with a limited-term position and prepared for the possibility that the role may not be extended beyond the initial period.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Campaign Manager’s primary responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

CAMPAIGN IMPLEMENTATION (50%)

Support Vote Solar’s legislative and public-facing energy and climate justice campaigns in Illinois. This will likely include leadership opportunities for advocacy campaigns focused on power sector reform, clean energy deployment, and income-qualified solar programs.
Conduct policy research to help ensure that Vote Solar and our allies are proposing the best possible policies to continue Illinois’s journey to the equitable clean energy future.
Support the priorities and increase the capacity of the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition as they relate to power sector policy reform.
Draft campaign materials, such as, blogs, social media posts, press releases, digital communications, talking points, legislative letters and testimony, and one pagers in coordination with the Regional Director, Regulatory Directors, and Communications team.
In collaboration with the Deputy Program Director, Midwest, support the development and maintenance of internal systems that enable successful campaigns across the region.
Implement strategies to grow new and existing relationships with decision makers, and other thought leaders at all levels to champion our policy goals now and into the future.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT + COALITION MANAGEMENT (40%)

Build and collaborate with coalitions of stakeholders – including frontline communities, environmental justice advocates, consumer advocates, environmental advocates, energy efficiency proponents, energy storage providers, electric vehicle advocates, etc. – to develop and pursue win-win strategies.
Work with the Deputy Program Director, Midwest to develop an Illinois-specific plan to grow new and existing relationships with partners that supports the development of a shared long-term agenda.
Attend regular regional campaign and coalition meetings to identify how Vote Solar can meet its goals in the state and add value to the work being done by partners.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND JUSTICE (10%)

Continue personal learning and contribute to organizational work on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Work to embed equity in all organizational internal practices and culture, as well as our programs.
Bring openness and engagement to personal, professional, and organization-wide learning on race, class, gender, justice, and equity.

REQUIREMENTS

WHAT YOU’VE ACCOMPLISHED

4+ years of relevant, combined education and experience. Of those, the candidate should have at least one year of experience in community organizing, advocacy campaigns, and/or stakeholder outreach work.
Knowledge of the legislative process, and familiarity with the components of an advocacy campaign: lobbying, grassroots and grasstops organizing and media relations.
Interest in energy policy and a proven ability to become conversant with policy details.
Experience building strong, trust-based partnerships and working in coalitions and finding common ground among diverse and occasionally competing perspectives.
Compelling communication skills, including the ability to speak in public and with media outlets.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects at once.
A personal commitment to building an inclusive and supportive work environment.

OTHER THINGS YOU MIGHT HAVE ACCOMPLISHED OR WOULD BE EXCITED TO LEARN HERE

Expertise on solar or other energy policy and regulatory topics, particularly in the Midwest.
Expertise on climate policies, particularly related to the intersection of clean energy and climate change adaptation.
Strong relationships with regional stakeholders, especially environmental justice, frontline and traditional environmental groups as well as the solar industry.

MINDSETS

A personal commitment to being a part of an inclusive and just workplace, including a commitment to being on a journey with Vote Solar to develop personal, and inter-personal core competencies related to diversity, equity, inclusion and justice.
Problem-solving orientation that includes thinking ahead to identify possible obstacles, searching for and proposing answers, independently owning work as assigned, and the ability to navigate ambiguity.
Passion for building new capacity at a growing organization.
Understanding that how we work (in collaborative, authentic partnership) is as important as what we work on.

LOCATION

This is a remote position open to anyone in the Midwest, with a strong preference for candidates based in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois. Candidates outside of Illinois should be prepared to visit the state frequently. This position may require some additional travel within the region and occasional national travel. Workplace arrangements are flexible, including options to work from our Chicago office as needed or work from home.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

This position is funded through a grant and is currently approved for a one-year term. While there may be opportunities for extension based on future funding, continuation of the role beyond the one-year period is not guaranteed. Candidates should be comfortable with a limited-term position and prepared for the possibility that the role may not be extended beyond the initial period.

The salary range for this position is $86,400 – $93,700. At Vote Solar, we work hard to ensure that our compensation is equitable internally and aligned with our compensation philosophy and defined job levels. In order to ensure equitable compensation across roles in the organization, we do not negotiate new hire offers.

Vote Solar provides full-time staff with a competitive package, including 4 weeks of paid vacation, 12 days of sick leave, 4 days of personal leave and 16 paid holidays. We also offer 100% employer-provided health, dental and vision care for both the employee and dependents; a retirement savings plan with an employer contribution of 3.5%; and a paid parental and medical leave policy for all regular employees.

State Water Policy Director

LCV is hiring a State Water Policy Director who will develop a network-wide advocacy program to advance state and local policies protecting clean water. The State Water Policy Director strengthens collaboration across 30+ state affiliates, collectively called the Conservation Voters Movement (CVM), by identifying and broadly sharing lessons learned and helping develop, implement, and design advocacy campaigns that result in state and local policy victories to protect clean water. This role develops and designs policy guidance for issue campaigns at the state and local level, grounded in social, racial, and economic justice and works with CVM partners to implement those policies.
Responsibilities:

Coordinate with national staff and state affiliate partners to monitor, develop, implement and evaluate state policy advocacy around water issues.
Coordinate with internal teams to connect and develop coalition-building and organizing campaigns focused on protecting clean water through state and local policy.
Collaborate with other departments to manage the state water policy grant process to support state partners’ advocacy campaigns and create a shared narrative across states.
Work collaboratively with state affiliate policy campaign managers and national water policy staff to identify policy priorities and share strategies across the CVM.
Integrate racial justice and equity into policy and advocacy priorities focused on ensuring every community and household has access to clean water.
Work with the communications and government affairs teams to identify messaging and communications strategies to build a shared national narrative about the need to expand protections for clean water.
Amplify state and local campaign progress; work closely with the digital team to develop online campaigns and tools that increase online engagement around state and local clean water campaigns.
Identify opportunities to advance our clean water program, including partnering with federal staff to participate in national coalitions, scoping potential new alliances, and connecting our state affiliates to opportunities to advance their leadership.
Research, track and analyze state and local clean water policies.
Work collaboratively across departments to design and implement state-focused, anti-racist clean water policy campaigns.
Support fundraising for the State Clean Water Policy program by assisting with grant proposals and reports as well as attending donor meetings, as needed.
Travel up to 20% of the time for retreats, training, and conferences.

Qualifications:

Work Experience: Required – Minimum of 5 years of experience in issue advocacy and/or organizing campaigns, including direct experience working in politics or lobbying at the state or local level. Experience working with state and/or local coalitions, and in particular collaboratively facilitating coalitions and organizing meetings. Project management experience. Preferred – Experience with campaigns that focus on protecting clean water. Experience working with low-income families, youth, and communities of color. Experience working with a national organization who has state affiliates or chapters.
Skills: Familiarity with state and local clean water policy. Ability to synthesize policy goals into campaign demands and public messaging. Familiarity with how communications strategies advance programmatic and advocacy goals. Ability to consistently integrate a deep understanding of key racial justice and equity concepts into projects and interactions by addressing structural implications and disproportionate impacts of policies, activities, and decisions on race, class and other group identities within the context of job responsibilities and projects. Exhibits strong leadership traits including reliable, consistent, detail-oriented, self-motivated, self-aware, and emotionally intelligent.
Racial Justice and Equity Competencies:Demonstrated awareness of how one’s life experiences influence one’s personal attitudes, biases, and assumptions. Demonstrated commitment to continual learning and ability to successfully deliver culturally responsive services. Commitment to equity and inclusion as organizational practice and culture. Understands how environmental issues intersect with racism, economic and social inequality in the U.S. and has a passion for working to dismantle these systems.
Working Conditions:This job operates in a professional office environment, and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and audiovisual systems. This position is largely sedentary, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods. The person in this position frequently communicates with partners and must be able to exchange accurate information. Applicants must be located in and legally authorized to work in the United States.

Clean Energy & Climate Attorney – Vermont

Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) is seeking a full-time attorney to join our team working to protect New England’s environment for all people. The Attorney will work with CLF’s Clean Energy and Climate Change program and will be based in CLF’s Montpelier, VT office with the opportunity for remote and flexible work within New England. The Attorney’s work will focus on legal and policy issues in Vermont. The position may be hired as a Senior Attorney or Staff Attorney depending on years of experience.

What you’ll do

The Attorney will be a key player in helping us achieve our mission. The Attorney will work independently and as part of state-based and regional teams and coalitions advocating for a just and clean energy future. In this role, the Attorney will both lead and support high-impact, cutting-edge advocacy efforts in the energy, transportation and buildings sectors as part of an over-arching strategy to tackle the climate crisis while centering environmental justice.

The Attorney will:

Devise and execute legal strategies for achieving CLF’s advocacy goals, including through litigation;
Develop relationships, build coalitions, and work collaboratively with community and advocacy groups, public officials, and business interests;
Build and sustain alliances and coalitions among impacted and allied entities;

Represent CLF in regulatory and administrative proceedings;
Draft public comment letters on projects, policies, and plans;

Advocate for priority bills before the Vermont General Assembly, including oral and written testimony;
Advocate before Vermont’s Public Utility Commission and engage with the regional independent electric system operator, ISO-NE;
Engage in public outreach efforts on transportation, climate, and energy-related advocacy initiatives;

Contribute to CLF’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion;

Write public educational materials, articles, and opinion pieces and communicate about advocacy work through media outlets and social media; and

Contribute to the health of our community and the smooth operation of our organization.

What you’ll need

We are looking for a motivated and mature self-starter who can work independently and as a productive member of a talented and diverse group of advocates dedicated to CLF’s mission and distributed across New England.

To be successful in this role, you’ll need:

At least 2 years of experience practicing law for Staff Attorney I, 5 years for Staff Attorney II and 7 years for Senior Attorney, preferably in the areas of environmental and/or energy law and preferably in Vermont.
An active license and good standing in Vermont, or an active license and good standing in another state and willingness to become licensed in Vermont.
Demonstrated experience working with state and federal environmental, energy, and climate laws and a strong grasp of political systems and regulatory proceedings.
Significant litigation experience in state and federal courts, before regulatory agencies or public utility commissions, or comparable experience.
Strong analytic abilities, oral and written communication skills, and a commitment to environmental justice advocacy.
Strong commitment to CLF’s mission, including its commitment to diversity, equity and
Coalition and network building skills, including cultural competence and ability to communicate and collaborate within diverse and multicultural communities.
A capacity to develop and/or enhance expertise in relevant technical or policy areas.

Our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. Our hiring process is centered on assessing candidates with various lived experiences. We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or have a less traditional background.

Adjunct Lecturer in Law – Environmental Justice

USC Gould School of Law is seeking lecturers to co-teach Environmental Justice (LAW 657). This two-unit course will explore the emergence of the environmental justice movement, nationally and in California, within the civil rights foundation. It will also examine several ongoing environmental justice controversies in California.

Candidates must have a JD and experience in the subject matter. In addition, this course will be taught on campus, so instructors must be local.

USC reserves the “Adjunct” appointment for faculty teaching less than full-time at USC, who are employed full-time in a primary profession or career elsewhere. Adjunct faculty typically teach only one course per year but, in exceptional cases, may teach one course per semester, if approved by the dean.

The base salary range for this position is $2,304 – $9,466 per semester. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the number of units per course, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Attorney – Climate & Energy Program

The Western Environmental Law Center is a leading nonprofit, public-interest environmental law firm rooted in the landscapes and communities of the western U.S. Founded in 1993, WELC has been celebrated as an Outside Magazine Best Place to Work for the last five consecutive years, Oregon Business Magazine Best Nonprofit, Law360 Environmental Group of the Year, and Better Business Bureau Torch Award winner for ethics.

The Climate & Energy Program Attorney is an exempt, full-time position. The central focus of this position is strategic, legal, and policy advocacy centered on the confluence of the climate crisis with the federal public lands fossil fuels program and the Western U.S.’ transition from fossil fuels to a renewables-powered future. The position’s responsibilities will be allocated among the following core areas:

Litigation and administrative engagement pertaining to federal public lands fossil fuel planning, leasing, infrastructure, and drilling approvals (0.6 FTE).
Engagement in federal and state-level climate, fossil fuels, public lands, and energy transition legislation, rulemaking, and policymaking (0.4 FTE).
The Attorney, in working in these areas, will work to advance equity, inclusion, and justice imperatives identified in cooperation with partners and allies, including frontline and energy-dependent communities. While focused on federal advocacy, the Attorney will also coordinate with WELC’s state-level advocacy in New Mexico, with an eye towards opportunities that may arise in other states.

Given the dynamic moment we find ourselves in, this position’s focus and time allocations will necessarily evolve in response to changing political, scientific, social, and economic circumstances and opportunities consistent with specific organizational strategies. Further, and as with all WELC positions, this position is flexibly designed to accommodate a successful candidate’s distinctive skills, experiences, and interests to further and complement WELC’s strategic climate focus. WELC’s organizational and strategic direction is not “top down,” but is informed precisely by the individual qualities of its staff.

Accordingly, the Attorney will be encouraged and supported to identify and advance opportunities to shape WELC’s organizational and strategic direction, to share perspectives, and to be a trusted and respected leader in their field and within their scope of work. The Attorney will support and coordinate with WELC leadership, development, communications, and finance staff, as well as represent WELC in public and private settings. The Attorney will also participate in retreats, trainings, and other organizational events.

To fulfill this position’s responsibilities, the Attorney may provide a full range of legal services on behalf of WELC, including litigation, policy advocacy, and administrative action. To assist in these efforts, the Attorney will stay apprised of relevant law, policy, social, and other developments. The Attorney will work collaboratively with staff across the organization, as well as with partner organizations and clients.

The Attorney is a normal 40-hour week position based out of any of WELC’S existing offices or, potentially, a remote home office in the western U.S., primarily working during Monday to Friday business hours, though some night and weekend hours may be required at times, depending on organizational and advocacy needs. Limited travel is required, averaging a total of 2-3 weeks per year, including some overnight and weekend travel. The position also involves standard office physical demands. WELC will provide all reasonable accommodations to the extent possible or required pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
QUALIFICATIONS

We are keenly interested in considering a range of applicants with diverse lived experiences who approach the world with kindness, empathy, imagination, and vision. We will happily consider applicants who offer an equivalent or alternative set of qualifications to fulfill this position’s responsibilities, apart from the first two qualifications set forth below, which are mandatory.

Law degree from an accredited law school.
Admission to and good standing with a U.S. state bar or willingness and ability to obtain membership to a U.S. state bar where the attorney is located at the earliest opportunity.
Lived experience within or past work experience in partnership with people and communities of diverse backgrounds and experience, particularly in the western U.S.
At least six years attorney experience, although we will consider exceptional candidates with less experience.
Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
Experience with and knowledge of federal climate, fossil fuels, and public lands issues, as well as an interest in and understanding of science and its interplay with climate, fossil fuels, public lands, communities, and public health is important.
Ability and willingness to act as a lead attorney on cases and projects and use a complete set of legal advocacy tools including litigation, policy, and administrative advocacy.
A commitment to conceptualizing and implementing legal strategies that further equity, inclusion, and justice, including through the just treatment and meaningful involvement of clients, partners, and frontline community groups and individuals.
Dynamic and empathetic skills to foster relationships with partners, clients, agency staff, and community members. Demonstrated ability to work in complex, potentially high-conflict, multi- dimensional arenas involving a broad array of organizations and interests.
Eagerness to mentor, support, and help develop newer attorneys, and a self-awareness, motivation, and desire to seek opportunities for your own growth and development.
An interest in and understanding of science and other technical fields and their interplay with public interest environmental law.
Ability to work independently and proactively, including a willingness to be flexible and adaptive when needed.
Desire to work on and contribute to a team. This includes learning from others, giving and receiving support and feedback, and active, constructive engagement in organizational discussions to advance the organization’s mission and contribute to its cohesion.
Highly organized and intellectually curious.
Demonstrated commitment to WELC’s mission and strategies and the public interest as well as a love for the land, waters, wildlife, and communities of the western U.S.