Job Title: Conservation Program Coordinator
Department: Iowa Chapter
Location: Des Moines, IA (preferred) or remote within Iowa
This position requires an ability to travel.
Reports To: Chapter Director
Supervises: None
Context: At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of interdependence. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice – a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature. As the climate crisis and deeply entrenched systemic racism all fuel injustice, we will continue to fight for a bold, transformational agenda that recognizes the interconnectedness between our planet, our humanity, and our future. By recognizing that our destinies are tied, we continue to name that all things are fundamentally connected, and the overlap between ecology, race, gender, and representative government will move to either advance our collective humanity or to oppress it. Sierra Club has close to 800 staff across the country and a network of 64 local chapters that are led and fueled by thousands of volunteers. We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees.
Scope: Under the direction of the Chapter Director or Chapter Conservation Chair, implements the Chapter’s approved conservation programmatic objectives.
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Job activities include but are not limited to:- Implements campaign strategies for conservation programs and projects in accordance with the chapter policy.
- Recruits, coordinates and facilitates grassroots involvement in conservation programs.
- Works with staff volunteer leaders and other interest groups to identify, recruit and organize volunteers for conservation campaigns.
- Monitors, analyzes, and evaluates laws, initiatives and new developments affecting a specific conservation issue at the community, state and national levels.
- Supports with presentations to community and governmental bodies regarding chapter conservation efforts and the creation of press releases, newsletters, flyers, etc. to keep the chapter membership and the general public informed.
- Advocates the Sierra Club position on public policy involving conservation programs; informs and communicates with elected officials, business leaders, governmental agencies, and other non-profit organizations.
- Supports the creation and implementation of surveys, investigations, and research needed to achieve objectives of conservation programs.
- Works on task forces, committees, stakeholder groups, etc. representing the chapter’s objectives or mission.
- Works closely with media representatives to ensure that the message of the chapter is accurately represented by the media.
- Performs miscellaneous duties as assigned.
The successful candidate must demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:- Issue Area Knowledge. Demonstrated commitment as well as some knowledge or experience with environmental issues.
- Excellent Written and Oral Communication Skills. Able to produce compelling written and digital materials: aims for accuracy and attention to detail. Can learn, internalize, and incorporate our “voice” across platforms.
- Demonstrated leadership experience working within a team structure. Ability to interact effectively with volunteers, members, staff and the general public.
- Proficient computer skills. Able to work with a variety of digital tools, eg: Google Suite, Salesforce, etc.
- Committed to evolution. You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility. And you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.
- Uplifting and additive. You see mistakes as opportunities for growth; problems as catalysts for solutions, and inspire others along the journey. You carry a constructive approach, can-do attitude, a sense of humor, and authentic kindness wherever you go.
The strongest candidates will also demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:- 1-2 years experience in the environmental field that includes research and organizing campaigns, press relations and public speaking.
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$56,500 - $62,000 a year
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $56,500 - $62,000 annually.
This position is represented by a collective bargaining unit and is subject to the terms and conditions of the contract between Sierra Club and Progressive Workers Union.
The Sierra Club offers a 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.
This is a category 6, non-exempt, represented position.
Sierra Club values the expertise and talents of foreign nationals. Sierra Club sponsors both nonimmigrant and immigrant visas when certain criteria are met, based on immigration laws and organizational needs. Such sponsorship is at the discretion of the Department Head and Sierra Club People Department in consultation with the employee’s manager. The Sierra Club cannot guarantee the approval of a visa petition. The Sierra Club is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce belonging.
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To Apply
The Sierra Club provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all staff members. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, lived experience and skills. The Sierra Club does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration status, socioeconomic status, ancestry, age, size, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, familial status, veteran status, disability, AIDS/HIV status, medical condition, prior conviction, arrest history, traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Sierra Club values applicants who are people that identify as Black, Indigenous, and other minoritized groups; women; queer, transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender fluid people.
Explore, enjoy and protect the planet.
