Mid-Atlantic Policy Associate, Appalachian Mountain Club (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania)
Deadline: August 12, 2011
AMC is seeking a talented and enthusiastic Policy Associate to enhance our efforts to conserve the Highlands Region. The Policy Associate will have proven grassroots organizing, campaign and outreach skills as well as a passion for the outdoors. The three-person office works to conserve land and increase recreational opportunities in the 3.5 million-acre Highlands region of PA, NJ, NY and CT, with a specific focus on the Pennsylvania Highlands.
RESPONSIBILITIES
* Assist the Pennsylvania Committee of the Highlands Coalition in its work to protect the Pennsylvania Highlands region including the implementation of the adopted Pennsylvania Committee strategic plan.
* Assist the Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager to implement a campaign to secure a special state designation of the Pennsylvania Highlands.
* Outreach to municipalities and other key groups, implementation of a marketing and branding effort in the Pennsylvania Highlands, working with media, and the development of online content for our web page, blog, Facebook page, and other new media tools will also be a part of this position.
* Coordinate efforts with AMC volunteers as well as other recreation-based partner organizations to plan hiking and paddling trips throughout the region
* Engage in other conservation or recreation policy issues central to the AMC's mission in CT, NY, NJ and PA as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
* Bachelors degree (or higher) plus a minimum of 2 years of experience in fields related to: conservation advocacy, land and water protection, environmental policy, grassroots organizing, issue-based campaign work; volunteer coordinating; and/or the promotion of recreation or conservation based tourism.
* Proven experience developing media and outreach materials, coordinating and supporting grassroots volunteers, and participating in public meetings.
* Familiarity with local, county and state government institutions and processes, and how to influence public policy outcomes.
* Experience or knowledge of working in a coalition setting, specifically in facilitating meetings, conference calls, and balancing a broad range of opinions and perspectives.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, and familiarity with using social networking tools for advocacy, specifically blogging and other web advocacy tools.
* Solid computer skills and a willingness to learn more as needed
* A willingness to contribute to fundraising efforts, especially grant writing, under the direction of the AMC's development staff and the Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager.
* Ability to occasionally travel safely in the backcountry in all weather conditions carrying a backpack of up to 20 pounds is preferred. Must be able to sit, stand, walk, and operate standard office equipment.
TO APPLY
Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, at least one writing sample, and contact information for three references electronically in a Word file to amcjob185@outdoors.org. No phone calls, please.
