Deputy Policy Director

~ The Michigan Environmental Council (MEC), a non-profit charitable organization, was founded in 1980 and is a coalition of over 60 environmental and public health organizations with more than 200,000 individual members. ~

For 34 years, MEC has provided a voice for the environment at the State Capital. In addition to serving as a clearinghouse of environmental information, MEC develops public policy, educates elected officials and the public, and provides training and support to member organizations.  

Position Overview 

MEC seeks a Deputy Policy Director to lead and support MEC efforts to defend Michigan's environment by shaping policy decisions made in the State Capital.

The successful applicant must have one to three years of legislative experience in public policy advocacy or analysis, coalition facilitation, the legislative process or political campaigns and will work full time in our Lansing offices. This position will work under the direction of MEC Policy Director. 

Responsibilities 

• Work with MEC Policy Director, and other Policy Staff, to develop and advance environmental policy reforms in the State Capital.
• Analyze environmental policy proposals (both legislative and executive branch) and monitor their progress through state decision-making processes.
• Meet with lawmakers and executive agency officials - and testify at committee meetings and departmental hearings - in support of environmental protections.
• Organize opportunities for representatives of MEC member groups and other allies to make their voices heard with elected representatives and government officials.
• Coordinate key environmental policy campaigns by facilitating coalition meetings and ensuring campaign plans are implemented according to schedule.
• Recruit new allies for MEC's advocacy work, particularly from constituencies traditionally underrepresented in environmental campaigns.
• Produce, with MEC Policy Staff, MEC's weekly Capitol Update, and develop additional tools for communicating with MEC member groups and other allies on the status of key policy initiatives in Lansing.
• Respond to media inquiries as appropriate.
• Assist in the preparation of proposals and reports to funders.
• Provide content for MEC's quarterly newsletter, website and other publications.
• Duties as assigned. 

Desired Qualifications 

• Legislative experience, 1-3 years.
• Professional experience in at least one of the following areas: public policy advocacy or analysis, coalition facilitation, the legislative process or political campaigns.
• Passion for environmental protection, interest in the political process, and commitment to diversity required.
• Familiarity with environmental issues and expertise in one or more of MEC's core program areas.
• Direct or related experience reaching out to potential new coalition partners, particularly those traditionally underrepresented in Michigan's environmental community.
• Excellent communications skills.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team; meet deadlines; and balance multiple tasks.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. 

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. Paid vacation and health/dental insurance provided. Employer-matched retirement plan available.

To Apply

Please use the email address below to send a cover letter, three references, a writing sample (1-3 pages), and your resume to: 

Chris Kolb, President
Michigan Environmental Council
602 West Ionia Street
Lansing, MI 48933

Note: It is preferred that you email materials (as one PDF, please). To submit your application you must follow all directions and format of materials to be considered for the position. If you have questions, contact Judy Bearup at the email address or phone number provided. 

Deadline: Friday, June 9, 2014  

~ MEC is an equal opportunity employer ~