Program Officer

Local Governments for Sustainability, U.S.A (ICLEI), a non-profit membership association of local governments working to achieve climate protection and other sustainable development goals, seeks a dynamic and talented Program Officer for our Houston, TX office.

Through ICLEI's "Cities for Climate Protection" campaign, over 230 local governments across the U.S. and hundreds more around the world have made commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Participating local governments agree to conduct baseline analyses of greenhouse gas emissions, and develop and implement plans to meet GHG emission reduction targets. ICLEI staff work closely with these local governments, providing technical assistance, training, software and other tools to help them achieve their emissions reduction goals. 

Responsibilities Include: 

* Respond to requests for information and provide technical assistance to local governments on a daily basis on methods of quantifying or measuring GHG emissions levels or reductions 
* Develop new resources (e.g., case studies, fact sheets) to help local governments learn from and replicate model policies and practices
* Provide trainings and assistance in the use of ICLEI's GHG quantification software tools
* Manage individual projects with attention to strategic planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation
* Collaborate with other staff in evolving municipal emissions reporting protocols
* Participate in the development and improvement of ICLEI's software tools
* Coordinate ongoing quantification and verification processes of local government GHG reduction activities 
* Assist local governments in the identification and development of policies and projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, along with the development of action plans to guide implementation 
* Perform site visits to provide technical assistance to local governments throughout the country
* Coordinate and facilitate meetings with various local government stakeholders 
* Participate in developing and conducting training programs for local government staff
* Contribute to the design and implementation of regional and national workshops
* Train and guide ICLEI staff hired to assist local governments in conducting emission inventories 
* Maintain an active knowledge of regional developments in the fields of climate change, emissions reduction, alternative fuels, energy policy, and other areas relevant to ICLEI's work 
* Represent ICLEI and its member communities at state and regional climate protection meetings 
* Recruit new jurisdictions to participate in ICLEI's campaigns and initiatives
* Contribute to ICLEI's strategic vision and the development of new programs
* Contribute to fundraising via concept and relationship development and proposal writing

Position Requirements:

* advanced knowledge of or experience working with local governments on the topics of climate, energy, and/or other sustainability initiatives.
* advanced degree in a technical or policy-related field and have at least two years of work experience in energy/climate, transportation, waste, urban environmental issues, or related fields OR who hold a BA/BS degree and possess 5+ years of relevant experience.
* excellent analytical, organizational, interpersonal communications, and writing skills; and be able to work independently as well as collaboratively;
* be willing to travel, as necessary (less than 25 percent).

Other desirable qualifications include: 

* Familiarity with the topics of global warming and climate change
* Understanding of environmental, economic, and social issues related to energy use, transportation, and waste management 
* Work and/or volunteer experience with local government
* Experience conducting emissions inventories
* Experience in data manipulation or statistical analysis using quantitative software programs 
* Technical expertise in quantifying the greenhouse gas emissions that result from the transportation, waste, and energy sectors; urban energy management; and/or urban environmental planning
* Experience in workshop development and leading training sessions - in groups and one-on-one 
* Excellent interpersonal, phone, written communication, and public presentation skills 
* Strong computer background in the PC environment, with experience in quantitative software programs, including database programs

The hiring salary range for the Program Officer position is $44,500-$50,500, commensurate with experience. This is a full-time, regular position with significant upward potential and excellent benefits package. 

To Apply

Please e-mail a cover letter and resume that details and demonstrates your experience, qualifications, and why you feel you would be the right choice for this position. Please put Program Officer in subject line. 

ICLEI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, people of color, veterans, and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged strongly to apply.

For other opportunities with ICLEI's U.S. Office, check http://www.iclei.org/index.php?id=403