Job Tag: Law/Policy

The Lincoln Institute of Land Policy seeks to improve quality of life through the effective use, taxation, and stewardship of land.

The Land and Water impact area of the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy focuses on sustaining land, water and other natural resources to support human and ecosystem health. It works to integrate land and water considerations into planning and infrastructure, ensuring current and future needs are met while balancing competing demands among diverse stakeholders. By advancing policies and practices that conserve and restore biodiversity, protect watersheds, and improve soil health, the impact area promotes healthier ecosystems and more resilient communities.

The Land Conservation and Restoration program of the Land and Water impact area advances land conservation and stewardship efforts to ensure the enduring provision of land and water resources upon which communities and economies depend. We strengthen land conservation practice and policy worldwide through networks, research, education, convening, tool development and partnerships.
Position Overview

The Policy Coordinator champions knowledge creation, management and exchange by monitoring emerging trends, resources and best practice in land conservation and stewardship around the world. You will synthesize complex issues and information into clear and relevant written work and knowledge products and effectively disseminate this information to land conservation audiences and partners globally.

This is a full-time, hybrid position located in Cambridge, MA at 37.5 hours/week reporting to the Director of Conservation and Stewardship. While we anticipate this position to be based in Cambridge, MA, candidates interested in a hybrid arrangement with our Washington D.C. office will also be considered. The role requires up to 10% travel, primarily domestic travel with limited international travel.

What You’ll Need

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, management or policy, or related subjects

At least one year of experience working in land conservation, restoration or environmental policy or related fields

Familiarity with land conservation policy and practice

Demonstrated outstanding research, writing and editing skills

Highly motivated person to develop subject matter knowledge in land conservation and restoration policy and practice

Flexibility with your schedule to attend meetings outside standard business hours based upon the large quantity of international conversations

Grasp the needs of practitioners, researchers, government agencies, public and elected officials, nongovernmental organizations, and private sector interests

Ability to discern and communicate important knowledge in useful formats

Self-starter who can work independently and still coordinate with multiple teams

Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and focus on delivering results

Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships

Highly organized with strong project management and problem-solving skills

Ability to meet deadlines

Attention to detail and follow-through

Proficiency with citation formats and reference management tools (e.g. Zotero, Endnote)

Proficiency in basic office software (e.g., Office, SharePoint, Asana, etc.)

The Lake George Association (LGA) seeks a Director of Government Relations to lead our state and federal policy and advocacy efforts to advance freshwater protection legislation, with a primary focus on Albany-based government relations. This role is central to LGA’s strategy, using the best available science, the law, and a deep understanding of political decision-making to turn solutions into durable policy and funding frameworks that protect Lake George and advance broader freshwater conservation initiatives for generations to come. Through policy, partnership and persistence, the Director of Government Relations helps ensure enduring protection for one of the most unique and valuable freshwater resources in the world.

Working closely with the Lake George Waterkeeper and LGA leadership, the Director will advocate for LGA priorities by coordinating LGA’s policy agenda, monitor legislative and regulatory activity, develop policy recommendations and briefs, and represent LGA at relevant hearings and with elected officials, agencies and coalition partners. The ideal candidate brings significant experience in New York State government, including roles in the Assembly, Senate, legislative committees, or state agencies, and has established relationships within Albany’s policymaking community.

What We’re Looking For

Demonstrated experience supporting senior leadership or board governance in a mission-driven environment.
Strong project management and organizational skills; proven ability to keep complex initiatives on track.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Confidence to serve as a proxy for the Executive Director in select forums.
Fluency with modern productivity tools (Office 365, project management platforms, CRMs, etc.).
Sound judgment, discretion and a passion for environmental protection.

The anticipated salary range is $90,000 – $110,000, commensurate with experience, along with a health benefits package including health, dental, and vision coverage, 403b retirement savings with employer contributions after six months, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Riverkeeper is New York’s premier water quality advocate. Our mission is to protect and restore the Hudson River from source to sea and safeguards drinking water supplies, through advocacy rooted in community partnerships, science and law.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Government Affairs Coordinator is an integral role focused on advancing Riverkeeper’s state and federal policy priorities, with a special emphasis on the New York State legislative session and select federal policies. Working closely with the Associate Director of Government Affairs, this position will amplify Riverkeeper’s reach in legislative affairs, public policy research, communications, and administrative functions through the addition of a second full-time lobbyist. The role is designed to provide essential leadership and support for effective advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, collaborating with Riverkeeper’s diverse program team of scientists, legal experts, and advocates.

EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

Research shows that people from under-represented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Please know that no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications. If much of this describes you, we encourage you to apply.

Hold a college degree (post-graduate education preferred).
Have 1-2 years of experience in advocacy, legislative work, or government affairs.
Are highly proficient in research, with experience in online research tools, databases, and complex policy topics.
Have strong writing skills, with excellent attention to detail.
Strong event management skills.
Strong public speaking skills.
Demonstrate the ability to be a resourceful, self-starter, able to navigate multiple tasks and priorities independently.
Are familiar with Google Drive (Sheets, Docs) and other productivity tools.
Experience creating visually engaging materials using Canva, InDesign, or similar design applications.
Are enthusiastic about Riverkeeper’s mission and ready to support the Associate Director of Government Affairs in achieving annual advocacy goals.
Must be eligible to register as a lobbyist under

SALARY: Full-time base salary range: $50,000-60,000 annually.

The Ohio Environmental Council seeks a Drinking Water Manager who will join our Water team. This role will work across the OEC to develop, execute, and coordinate smart strategies to advance the water-related policies outlined in the OEC’s strategic plan. The role will also support the water policy advocacy efforts conducted by the OEC’s affiliated 501(c)(4) organization, the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund.

The Drinking Water Manager will ensure the maintenance of strong partnerships and networks with diverse stakeholders, decision-makers, and media to strategically execute and coordinate a range of effective tactics to advance OEC’s drinking water policies. Along with the Agriculture and Water Manager, The Drinking Water Manager will report to the Managing Director of Water Policy.

Key qualifications

You have at least 3 + years of relevant experience in advocacy, community organizing, or program management.
You have working knowledge of drinking water issues, solutions, policies, and regulations.
You have effective communication and interpersonal skills that can be leveraged to represent the OEC in a variety of settings.
You have effective time management skills, including prioritizing and managing multiple projects independently.
You are comfortable with facilitating meetings and problem solving with a variety of stakeholders.
You have the ability to work collaboratively or independently and “fill in the blanks” when needed.
You approach your work with a flexible, positive attitude, and the spirit of “yes”.
You have the ability to adapt quickly to change.
You share our commitment to ensuring an inclusive organization that is representative of all Ohioans.

Preferred qualifications

You have some experience working with nonprofit and government organizations or advocacy groups.
You have demonstrated a commitment to continued professional growth and development.
You have experience managing multiple projects at once while delivering quality results.
You have experience with fundraising and/or grant writing.
You have the ability to plan, track, and manage a budget successfully.
You can travel within the state, and available for occasional overnight or out-of-state travel for meetings and conferences.

Ocean Conservancy’s Government Relations team works to develop and implement policy solutions to address key ocean threats. Through strategic engagement with Congress, the Administration, partner organizations and other stakeholders, we work to educate policymakers on ocean issues and influence ocean-related legislation and policy decisions to achieve lasting change. We pride ourselves on promoting policy solutions that are visionary, but pragmatic; inspiring and activating key constituencies in new and innovative ways; and working with our program teams to win real policy and legislative changes that protect and promote ocean health.

The Government Relations Manager develops, implements, and coordinates efforts to advance Ocean Conservancy’s national policy and legislative agenda. The Government Relations Manager has the responsibility of developing and executing comprehensive government relations strategies for achieving our objectives in both congress and the administration. The primary focus of this position may include coverage of issues related to sustainable fisheries, Arctic conservation, and climate. Other programmatic topics could include appropriations.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Represent the organization, and maintain close contact with Members of Congress, their staff, and the Administration on ocean conservation and funding issues.
Work closely with Ocean Conservancy program staff to identify and create opportunities to advance specific policy goals, and to develop and implement strategies and tactics to achieve effective policy outcomes.
Policy analysis, legislative strategy development and implementation, selective stakeholder outreach, and coordination of the NGO community.
Help determine when new legislative authority is needed, draft testimony, legislation, legislative amendments, and communicate with Congressional staff.
Respond to requests for information and advocate for the organization’s positions before Congress and federal agencies.

REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

Minimum of one year of experience working with Congress and/or the federal government on policy issues.
Proven ability to understand and analyze complex regulatory and legislative issues; and develop and implement strategies to advance policy and legislative goals.
Superior oral and written communication skills, including capacity to communicate complex ideas compellingly to a variety of audiences.
Demonstrated ability to integrate across disciplines and work collaboratively with diverse teams, networks, and coalitions.
A strategic thinker who can identify, maximize, and create opportunities to advance Ocean Conservancy’s policy goals.
A high-level performer who will bring the necessary creativity, energy, and commitment; and with the ability to move rapidly in response to policy opportunities as they present themselves.
Understanding of Congress, the Administration, and the policy-making process.
Attentive to details and adheres to deadlines and deliverables while keeping a larger vision in mind.
Highly collaborative with an appreciation of the benefit of a multi-disciplinary team approach.
Experience working in a government agency, congressional office, or experience lobbying is strongly preferred.
Knowledge of or familiarity with one or more of the policy issues listed above preferred.

EDUCATION/TRAINING

Bachelor’s degree in political science, environmental policy, marine science or related field is required.

Reporting to WildEarth Guardians’ Climate & Health Program Director, the Climate and Health Program Attorney will develop, spearhead, and implement legal strategies and tactics that expose the true cost of oil and gas extraction and strengthen protections for clean air, clean water, public lands, and public health.

The Attorney will focus primarily on New Mexico and Colorado, coordinating closely with Guardians’ Climate and Health Advocates in both states to ensure consistent and effective engagement across legal, policy, and campaign priorities. This work will advance Guardians’ broader strategy to end federal oil and gas leasing by 2035 and to hold state and federal regulators accountable for pollution, waste, and environmental health violations.

Qualifications:

Law degree from an accredited law school with admission to the New Mexico or Colorado Bar or willingness and ability to obtain membership to one of those state bars by the start date.

4+ years of demonstrated experience in environmental, administrative, or energy law (nonprofit, government, or private practice).

Experience writing and filing administrative comments, appeals, and litigation pleadings.

Strong understanding of oil and gas regulation, including air quality, produced water, waste management, and public health impacts.

Familiarity with federal oil and gas leasing processes, resource management planning, and strategies to reform or end leasing programs.

Understanding of western U.S. political, environmental, and cultural dynamics, particularly in New Mexico and Colorado.

Experience working with and building authentic relationships with community-based organizations, including those led by frontline and underrepresented groups.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of federal statutes such as NEPA, FLPMA, RCRA, the Clean Air Act, and the Clean Water Act.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legal issues into compelling advocacy and communications materials.

Strong analytical and research abilities.

Willingness to travel regularly within NM and CO and occasionally throughout the western U.S.

Capacity to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.

Creative thinker, strategic risk-taker who pursues bold advocacy within the bounds of law and ethics

A healthy degree of creativity, irreverence, and sense of humor.

Commitment to WildEarth Guardians’ mission and values, including Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) principles.

Earthjustice seeks an Associate Attorney to join our Sustainable Food and Farming Program based in New York or Washington, D.C. The position requires 0-3 years of post-law-school legal experience.

Earthjustice’s Sustainable Food & Farming Program (“SFF”) engages in litigation and advocacy to improve our nation’s food systems, from crop selection and farming practices to food processing and sustainability. Working in partnership with communities, advocacy groups, scientists, and others, we fight for safe and healthy food, climate-friendly farming, and justice throughout the chain. We take on cases with regional and national scope.

The Associate Attorney position is a three-year position with the potential for extension, designed to help attorneys who are in the early stages of their careers to develop into thoughtful, professional, and effective advocates skilled in the various phases of public interest litigation. As Associate Attorneys gain experience, they gradually take on more independent responsibility for their cases but work throughout their tenure under the supervision of Senior Attorneys, Deputy Managing Attorneys, or the Managing Attorney. Many Associates have gone on to other positions within Earthjustice and with other public interest organizations.

Required Qualifications:

Law school graduate, with 0-3 years of legal experience and admitted to, or willing and eligible to apply for admission to, the New York, NY or Washington, D.C. Bar.
Excellent research, analytic, writing, and communication skills.
Strong and demonstrated work ethic, good judgment, initiative, and creativity.
Strong desire to fight for the right of all to a healthy environment.
Ability to work well independently and in a team-oriented atmosphere.
Commitment to serving the public interest and a passion for the role of Earthjustice and its mission.
Demonstrated awareness and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and orientations.
Ability and desire to contribute to the creation of a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work culture that encourages and celebrates differences.
High level of emotional intelligence and excellent interpersonal skills.

Salary range in NYC: $110,500-$123,300

Salary range in Washington, DC: $105,000 – $117,100

The Senior Attorney, U.S. Clean Energy will lead and support EDF legal and regulatory advocacy in support of decarbonization of the electric system. This primarily comprises representing EDF in federal litigation and federal and state regulatory proceedings regarding laws, policies, and actions related to clean energy projects and infrastructure, as well as engaging in proceedings related to federal actions to support or expand the use of fossil fuel generation. This position also supports EDF’s development and review of legislative and regulatory proposals regarding clean energy infrastructure, permitting, and other energy policy matters. In addition to formally representing EDF before administrative agencies and civil courts, this position will also engage with external and internal partners to develop strategy, refine policies, generate thought leadership, and leverage external communications to support and amplify clean energy advocacy across the country.

This position will report to the Director & Lead Counsel, U.S. Clean Energy in Legal & Regulatory.

Experience interfacing with a range of stakeholders, including community leaders, companies, industry trade associations, and policymakers with the ability to garner consensus between disparate groups.

Demonstrated experience in regulatory advocacy, litigation, and/or policy development at the state or federal level.

Excellent oral and written communication, with demonstrated ability to effectively communicate comprehensive subject matter expertise and technical and policy findings to colleagues, policymakers, other stakeholders and allies, journalists, and the general public.

Ability to deploy and integrate science, law, economics, and advocacy tools to initiate and win positive environmental change.

Ability to recognize and build on political opportunities for progress.

Strong presentation, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.

Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities; attentive to detail, proactive, and highly organized.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team across multiple time zones.

Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.

Commitment to EDF’s mission and values, and to advancing clean air and climate solutions.

Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% of the time.

Salary Range: $122,000 – 129,000 USD

The Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship at Colorado State University is seeking applications and nominations for a nine-month, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor specializing in Natural Resource Policy and Governance. Applications from those interested in investigating, teaching, and contributing to the innovation of policy and governance dimensions concerning the conservation, restoration, sustainable use, and stewardship of forest and rangeland social-ecological systems are especially encouraged to apply. We seek scholars who will develop an internationally recognized, innovative, independent, and extramurally funded research program involving graduate and undergraduate students with interest and expertise in one or more of the following policy and governance arenas: climate adaptation, risk management, and sustainability of forest and rangeland social-ecological systems; restoration of disturbed forest and/or rangeland ecosystems; wildland fire policy and governance; tribal policy and governance; or water resources relating to forest and rangeland social-ecological systems.

In addition, the successful candidate will be expected to exhibit leadership in, and passion for, teaching and contributing to undergraduate and graduate programs in the Forest and Rangeland Stewardship Department. These include two undergraduate natural resource policy courses and at least one graduate-level course, and integrating policy and governance topics within curricula across degree programs.

Required Job Qualifications:

Ph.D. in natural resource policy and governance, or a closely-related field
Demonstrated expertise in forest and/or rangeland social-ecological systems
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. by proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Preferred Job Qualifications:

Ph.D. in natural resource policy and governance, or a closely-related field
Demonstrated expertise in forest and/or rangeland social-ecological systems
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. by proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

The Senior Attorney, Clean Transportation, will play a substantial role in EDF’s legal and regulatory advocacy for clean transportation in US states. The Senior Attorney will help lead or support EDF’s advocacy on a wide range of innovative and impactful state and local transportation programs, including California mobile source emissions standards, State funding and incentive programs for zero-emission vehicles and charging infrastructure, and other policies. The Senior Attorney will be an integral part of EDF’s Legal and Regulatory team; collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of attorneys, scientists, economists, and policy specialists; and represent EDF before important governmental, private, and non-government stakeholders. EDF is creating this new position to meet our growing needs in this critical area for clean air and climate. The position will report to Lead Counsel, Clean Transportation.

The Senior Attorney will join a team that possesses a deep commitment to protecting public health and the planet. The current team members share a growth mindset to continuously learn and apply new legal and non-legal skills in challenging and quickly changing circumstances, as well as a culture that values integrity, optimism, innovation, respect, and results.

Qualifications

5+ years of relevant legal experience required, including significant experience in environmental, energy, and/or administrative law, with a preference for experience in clean transportation or air quality.

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.

Active membership in good standing of the bar of a State, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia.

Demonstrated experience in regulatory advocacy, litigation, and/or policy development at the state or federal level.

Experience with issues relating to preemption of State and local programs under the Clean Air Act and Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

Excellent oral and written communication, presentation, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.

Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities; attentive to detail, proactive, and highly organized.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team across multiple time zones.

Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.

Commitment to EDF’s mission and values, and to advancing clean air and climate solutions.

Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Ability and willingness to travel as needed.

Salary: $122,000 – 129,000 USD