With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. This leading green group, with programs from Boston to Beijing, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents and contributions, where innovation and a focus on results are a way of life.
Overall Function
The Policy Specialist will play a central role in our work to promote policies that create economic incentives for conservation and improved stewardship of America’s working farms, ranches and forestland. The selected individual will work closely with our Agriculture Policy Director to implement a strategy to engage with elected officials and members of the Administration (including particularly USDA) to promote federal policies that advance EDF goals. A particular focus over the next 18 months will be on the development of the 2012 Farm Bill and other LWW policy priorities. The selected individual will build durable relationships with key stakeholders in Washington, D.C. and across the country, working closely with Land Water and Wildlife program staff and consultants in the Capitol and across the country. The position will be based in Washington, DC, report to the Agriculture Policy Director, and work closely with EDF’s VP for Congressional Affairs.
Key Responsibilities
Work with Environmental Defense Fund’s team of policy and on-the-ground specialists to develop policy concepts that advance LWW goals, particularly as they relate to federal policy impacting agriculture.
Work with the VP for Congressional Affairs and Agriculture Policy Director to advocate for these policies on Capitol Hill and within the Administration.
Contribute to development and implementation of a legislative strategy for the 2012 Farm Bill and other important federal agriculture policy initiatives.
Build trusting relationships in the NGO community, agriculture community, Capitol Hill, the Administration.
Become fluent in the goals, objectives, strategies and tactics of EDF and our strategic partners.
Conduct relevant policy analysis, research and writing.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have:
Sophisticated understanding of the policymaking process in Washington, D.C. is critical as is a good reputation among agriculture stakeholders.
Experience on Capitol Hill is a plus.
Knowledge of key federal policies affecting agriculture including Farm Bill, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act and others.
Ability to think clearly and creatively about technical, scientific and legal issues.
Excellent written and oral communications skills.
Demonstrated track record of working with diverse interests on all sides of the political spectrum.
Strong strategic sense for influencing public policy.
Demonstrated commitment to environmental values.
Advanced degree in environmental science, policy, or political science is a plus.
Detail oriented, organized, a self-starter, able to adapt to frequent change and prioritize effectively under constant deadline pressure.
Excellent strategic thinking skills and judgment.
Ability to follow guidance from and consult frequently with senior staff.
Ability to work with a diverse range of people, both inside Environmental Defense Fund and externally.
Application
Interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume and salary requirements to jobs@edf.org. Due to the volume of employment applications and queries received, EDF is unable to respond to each application individually. Applicants will be contacted directly if selected as a candidate.
Environmental Defense Fund is an Equal Opportunity Employer
