Background
For more than 30 years, U.S. PIRG – the federation of state Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs) – has been taking on powerful interests on behalf of the American public, working to win concrete results for our health and well-being. With a strong network of researchers, advocates, organizers and students across the country, we stand up to powerful special interests on issues to promote clean air and water, protect open space, stop identity theft, fight political corruption, provide safe and affordable prescription drugs, and strengthen voting rights.
Job Description
We’re seeking a dynamic individual to provide vision and strategic input for the PIRG network’s public health advocacy programs nationwide.
The National Public Health Program Coordinator is responsible for developing and enhancing the state PIRGs’ capacity to impact significant policy changes on issues that affect the public’s health, including exposing dangerous industrial and agricultural practices, promoting tough policies to curtail pollution, and calling for cleanups where health-threatening pollution has already occurred.
Specifically, the coordinator:
• Advises PIRG policy advocates at the state and federal levels on issue identification and prioritization, campaign planning and implementation, and strategy. The coordinator also serves as a central connection for state PIRGs working on related campaigns across the country.
• Drafts model legislation and organizes political support at the state, regional or national level.
• Conducts media outreach on environmental issues.
• Secures funding for PIRG campaigns from private foundations and high-level donors.
Qualifications
Qualified applicants will have a strong commitment to public health and toxics policy issues, as well as demonstrated experience and expertise in organizational development and strategic planning.
We’re looking for an individual who has at least 8-15 years of relevant professional experience, post-college. Relevant experience includes (but is not limited to) working in political, policy, journalistic or government settings. Advanced degrees, including a JD or masters in related fields, may count toward a candidate’s professional experience.
Successful candidates will also bring all or most of the following skills and attributes to the position:
- Strong verbal communication, writing, messaging and analytical skills;
- Proven success in campaign development, media outreach and fundraising;
- Enthusiasm for the state PIRGs’ mission and commitment to grassroots social change;
- A team orientation that combines collegiality and creativity to drive and motivate others;
- An outstanding work ethic and an entrepreneurial mindset;
- The ability to speak persuasively in a charged atmosphere;
- A willingness to engage in conflict in creative and strategic ways.
Salary & Benefits
Salary for this position is commensurate with the amount of relevant professional experience that a candidate possesses. A competitive benefits package includes health care coverage, educational loan assistance, a retirement plan, paid vacation and sick days, parental leave, and a dependent care assistance program. Opportunities for advancement, travel, and additional training are available.
Location(s)
Denver, CO; Boston, MA; Washington, DC
Application
E-mail a compelling cover letter and resume to . Please specify the position you're applying for in the subject line of your e-mail, and be sure to mention where you saw our job announcement. We'll carefully consider your application and if we think you're a good fit, we'll be in touch.
