Context: Builds grassroots power to accomplish Sierra Club campaign goals. Develops and implements organizing strategies for priority campaigns. Represents the Sierra Club to the public and in coalition spaces in Central and Southern Illinois.
Scope: The Downstate Lead Organizing Representative is responsible for recruiting, engaging, and training Sierra Club volunteer leaders and community members across Central and Southern Illinois. They will identify and build alliances with other organizations in order to influence decision makers. They will travel to relevant communities to implement campaign plans, largely focused on achieving an equitable and just transition to 100% clean, renewable energy, reducing air and water pollution for all in Illinois, and protecting Illinois natural places.
- Develops and implements organizing campaign plans with the assistance and input of Sierra Club volunteer leaders, staff, and local community partners. In collaboration with the Sierra Club stakeholders, engages key strategic partners in frontline communities, labor allies, elected and appointed decision-makers, business leaders, and other strategic stakeholders to ensure advancement of Sierra Club’s priorities.
- Implements Sierra Club best practices regarding the Jemez Principles for Democratic Organizing, building new partnerships and engaging community members most impacted by environmental and socio-economic harms. Works with staff and volunteers to center Equity, Inclusion and Justice in campaign work and organizing plans.
- Supports downstate local Sierra Club group members in their efforts to develop new leadership and engage members in winning local conservation campaigns.
- Works with appropriate regional staff and volunteer entities to develop campaign organizing plans to implement visibility, media and community outreach events to move decision-makers and generate public support.
- To grow our movement with more regional power in Central and Southern Illinois, develops and trains a larger network of new and existing volunteers and partners with leadership skills to co-create campaign strategies, build partnerships, organize in local communities and execute tactics.
- Represents the Sierra Club to the general public and to strategic allies. Helps build, maintain and lead or participate in coalitions and coalition efforts in Central and Southern Illinois.
- Coordinates and measures success of activities with manager and campaign or program leads to ensure progress towards the campaign's mission and goals.
- Performs miscellaneous duties as directed.
Seasonal Activities:
Heavier seasonal workloads may occur as a result of project deadlines, staff absences and vacancies, and during peak activity periods. Frequent weekend and/or evening work required.
- 2-3 years experience working with volunteers in the environmental movement, political campaigns, or other, similar organizations to plan and implement grassroots campaigns.
- Basic knowledge of current environmental policy issues affecting the assigned region. Ability and willingess to learn energy policy topics relevant to Illinois.
- Has current contacts or has the ability to develop contacts with environmental coalition partners in Central and Southern Illinois
- Commitment to building an organization that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, as well as promoting a culture of learning and growth.
- Demonstrated ability to work in a challenging political landscape to advance policy goals.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to speak publicly with a wide range of different constituencies.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively in action-oriented office.
- Ability to work independently, cooperatively and effectively with public, staff and volunteers. Strong ability to network, build trust, and build working relationships.
- Able to travel as needed. Valid driver’s license, satisfactory driving record, and proof of auto insurance required.
- Proficient computer skills including social networking sites, word processing, and database software.
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.