Under the direction of the Deputy Chapter Director, be the lead advocate for Sierra Club efforts to move Illinois to 100% clean energy, particularly focused on strong and just implementation the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and advocacy and implementation of the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA). Collaborates with various internal departments and programs, partner organizations, and volunteer leadership to support strategic coordinated campaign work. When needed, represents the Sierra Club to government officials, the media, business and community leaders, allies and other organizations, and to the public.
- Implements strategic campaign to move Illinois to 100% clean energy, working in collaboration with Illinois Chapter and National staff, as well as volunteer leadership, partner organizations, and the public.
- Advocates before state and local government and Illinois utilities. Along with Director and other staff, represents Sierra Club at state coalition working group meetings on design of new clean energy policies.
- Supports staff, volunteers, partners, and businesses in priority implementation areas to promote clean energy project development. Develops and maintains relationships with policymakers responsible for clean energy development in Illinois.
- Assists in representing the Sierra Club’s views to legislators, government agencies, administrative officials, clean energy businesses, news media, and the general public by giving testimony, participating in meetings, public speaking events and by establishing and maintaining personal contacts.
- Supports and provides professional expertise to staff, volunteers, elected officials and the general public.
- Assists in content development of educational/informational materials such as newsletters, flyers, and fact sheets.
- Seeks opportunities to advance the Sierra Club’s diversity initiatives through new partnerships and engagement strategies where appropriate.
- Handles miscellaneous projects and duties as assigned.
- At least 3 years of experience in public policy advocacy, and implementation of campaigns
- Experience in these aspects of advocacy campaigns is a plus:
- planning and managing a state or regional level policy advocacy campaign;
- working with attorneys and utilizing legal advocacy;
- legislative lobbying;
- media relations and strategic communications;
- working with senior-level political and business leaders;
- working with citizens and volunteers to engage them in policy advocacy; experience working with clean energy businesses, organized labor and disadvantaged communities is a plus;
- Strong knowledge of energy issues, including renewable energy and energy efficiency policy and programs
- Excellent demonstrated written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated public speaking and media presentation ability
- Demonstrated ability and effectiveness working with volunteers
- Valid driver’s license, satisfactory driving record, and proof of auto insurance required
The Sierra Club offers competitive salary package commensurate with skills and experience plus excellent benefits that include medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a retirement savings 401(k) plan.