Grassroots Organizer

Prairie Rivers Network (PRN), an independent, state affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation, is Illinois's advocate for clean water and healthy rivers. We champion clean, healthy rivers and lakes and safe drinking water to benefit the people and wildlife of Illinois.

Drawing upon sound science and working cooperatively with others, we advocate public policies and cultural values that sustain the ecological health and biological diversity of water resources and aquatic ecosystems.

In the past five years, coal mining in Illinois has increased dramatically as production in Appalachia has dwindled and exports have increased. This expansion has come at a cost, as Illinois coal mines and coal fired power plants have not invested in advanced water pollution controls, putting our state's water resources at risk.

Position Overview: 

PRN is fighting to protect our rivers and streams from new and expanding coal mines, and to ensure that toxic coal ash dumps are responsibly cleaned up as Illinois phases out its aging fleet of coal fired power plants. The Grassroots Organizer works closely with our staff scientist and attorney to design and implement campaigns to protect Illinois' rivers and streams from coal pollution.

Responsibilities: 

Major Duties:

Perform community organizing and grassroots mobilization in support of our campaigns to reduce water pollution from coal mining and coal ash disposal in Illinois. Specifically, this position is responsible for: 

• Working directly with frontline community groups to develop their capacity to influence decision making processes and protect their water resources from coal pollution.
• Continuing to build and support an alliance of organizations and frontline community residents that facilitates communication, participation and basin-wide action on coal pollution issues.
• Coordinating outreach and education efforts to broaden awareness of coal pollution issues in Illinois.
• Mobilizing our members, partners and supporters to take action in support of our coal program work.

Qualifications: 

• B.A./B.S. degree in Biology, Environmental Studies, Political Science or a closely related field.
• At least 1 year experience in environmental non-profit or related advocacy field.
• Prior experience organizing campaigns.
• Excellent public speaking skills, written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience generating earned media coverage of environmental issues.
• Prior experience researching and writing training and information materials.
• Prior experience and knowledge of the legislative or administrative processes a plus.
• Demonstrated ability and effectiveness working with volunteers.
• Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently.
• Familiarity with clean water advocacy / river conservation a plus.
• Requires frequent travel.
• Valid driver's license with either access to own vehicle or eligibility to rent. 

To Apply:

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to submit a cover letter with your qualifications and a resume.