About the Position
The Illinois Environmental Council Education Fund (IECEF), IEC’s 501c3 sister organization, is looking for a policy manager to support our state government affairs work. They will join a team of four and report to the Chief Programs Officer, Conservation and Agriculture, working closely with our programs, communications and development teams to execute on our work.
This permanent, full-time hybrid position is located in Illinois at our Springfield office (preferred) or Chicago office. Candidates must reside in Illinois.
About You
We are seeking someone with strong project management and legislative experience to support our legislative priorities across six issue areas: conservation, agriculture, clean energy, equitable transportation, clean water, zero waste. This person should be ready to dive into established processes with a willingness and interest in adjusting and improving on those systems to create efficiency in our work. This person will work with IEC staff to educate lawmakers, develop policy, and move forward with change that creates a strong and healthy environment in Illinois. The proposed focus areas for this position are nutrient pollution, river access, and urban/rural flooding.
We strongly encourage candidates of all backgrounds and identities to apply. Each new hire is an opportunity for us to bring a different perspective, and we are always eager to diversify our organization further. IEC/IECEF is committed to building an inclusive, supportive place for you to do the best and most rewarding work of your career.
Responsibilities
Education
- Draft content for educational materials for key stakeholders.
- Communicate environmental priorities through public speaking and other outreach.
- Organize and conduct events and tours with decisionmakers and key stakeholders.
Coalition Building
- Administer and lead coalitions, as assigned, including setting agendas, meeting times and location, group messaging, goals, strategies, and tactics.
- Consult our affiliates to build on their expertise in certain fields.
- Coordinate with partner organizations to develop strategies and implement tactics.
Policy and Advocacy
- Build relationships with and join meetings with state stakeholders, decision-makers, and legislators.
- Build relationships with identified stakeholders through IEC power analysis to ensure environmental champions in targeted regions.
- Develop policy expertise in issue areas as assigned, including an understanding of current legislation and a comparison to laws in other locations. This may include nutrient pollution, urban/rural flooding, and river access.
Organizational Leadership
- Contribute to fundraising efforts, including grant applications & foundation reporting related to IEC’s advocacy work.
Physical Requirements – Have the ability to:
- Lift and carry items up to 25 pounds.
- Operate a computer.
- Sit at a desk for extended periods.
- Stand, walk, and be on your feet outdoors for extended periods.
- Communicate and exchange information.
Qualifications
- Previous work experience in similar positions.
- Excellent project management skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Strong time management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups and people.
- Commitment to and knowledge of equity, diversity, inclusion, and allyship work.
- Proficiency using both the Microsoft and Google software suites.
- Highly organized.
- Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and work independently.
- Interest in environmental issues and policies.
- Issue expertise in environmental issues.
- Legal background optional, but desired.
How to Apply
Introduce yourself to us as a colleague in your cover letter. Show us your future here! We value great writers, so be yourself and take your time with the application. Stock cover letters won’t do. Tell us why you want this job.
Applications must be received by February 14, 2025.
To apply, please send a cover letter with salary requirements and resume to Lindsay Keeney at lkeeney@ilenviro.org.