Reporting to: Government Affairs Manager
Our Mission: To sustain and enhance the Hudson Valley’s inspirational beauty and health for generations to come.
Mission of Position:
Provides strategic support to the Government Affairs Manager in the form of public policy research, preparation of reports and case statements, community outreach and engagement, and direct and grass-roots lobbying related to public funding and environmental, agricultural and land-use laws, regulations, and programs. A focus of this position is to bring together the diverse people and organizations of the Hudson Valley and New York State to protect the natural resources at the heart of the Hudson Valley’s health and prosperity in order to safeguard the region’s air, water, land and other irreplaceable natural resources, and address climate change through federal, state, and local action. Provides auxiliary support to other Scenic Hudson departments/teams as directed.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree or higher required, ideally in environmental sciences, political science, pre-law, public administration or related field; 1-2 years’ experience in related position preferred. Excellent research, analytical, organization, interpersonal communication and social media skills needed. Must be a team- player, accountable for generating outcomes and results following predictable work plans as well as in response to sudden events, and able to handle multiple priorities simultaneously. Entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic essential. Knowledge and proficiency in using internet-based legal and legislative research tools, social media applications, and Microsoft Office Suite. Working knowledge of climate and agricultural policy as well as New York State legislative, budgeting and regulatory processes preferred. Knowledge of Environmental Quality Review, Coastal Consistency Review, and state grant making processes preferred. Must have own transportation and valid driver’s license. Frequent travel to New York State Capital and other communities in all weather conditions. Must be able to lift 30 lbs to transport meeting materials. Occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.
Principal responsibilities may include:
- Researches legislation, reports, data and media that relate to high priority outcomes and strategies. Monitors local, state and federal government legislation, as well as legislative and budget processes.
- Collaborates to review State and Federal Registers and State Environmental Notice Bulletin for issues of interest, as directed.
- Represents Scenic Hudson on various coalitions and advisory committees, as directed.
- Synthesizes information and prepares memoranda summarizing situations and issues based on research and monitoring, and knowledge of the organization, its partners, and other relevant context.
- Coordinating with Scenic Hudson’s Land Conservation Team to share information and solicit feedback on federal, state agricultural policy and programs help advance sustainable and regenerative practices on farms while supporting farm viability.
- Monitors federal, state and local policy discussions related to land conservation, climate change, environmental justice, watershed management, storm resiliency and infrastructure development issues and coordinates review of policies with Scenic Hudson’s Land Conservation, Conservation Science, River Cities, and Advocacy Teams.
- Reviews, assesses and provides recommendations on requests for letters of support related to legislation and grant funding
- Drafts fact sheets, letters, press releases and reports.
- May create and deliver public statements and represent organization in public settings, on social media and in meetings with public officials and their staff. Public statements will be closely coordinated with supervisor.
- Maintains contact lists, databases and project files to provide easy access by others to this critical information and track progress toward outcomes.
- Keeps records and generates monthly reports on government relations activities in accordance with NY State’s Joint Commission on Public Ethics, and other relevant regulatory agencies.
- Makes frequent trips to Albany, New York City, and other communities.
- May work on an array of projects for other teams and individuals in the organization, as assigned.
- Assists with ongoing general Development activities and performs other related duties as deemed necessary.
Compensation:
Full Time, $59,000 – $62,000 commensurate with experience.
Contact:
Send cover letter, resume, and brief writing sample to: jobs@scenichudson.org. Further information can be found on our website: www.scenichudson.org. No phone calls please.
Scenic Hudson defines Environmental Justice as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people regardless of their ability, culture, education, gender, heritage, income, or race in efforts, decisions, and actions that impact their environment, health and livelihoods.
Scenic Hudson is an Equal Opportunity Employer promoting and celebrating excellence and cultural diversity. We are committed to advancing diversity, equity, representation, and inclusion, and strive to serve all people in the Hudson Valley by evaluating all our projects, strategic initiatives, and outcomes through that lens.
