Energy/Air Quality Policy Specialist

ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE'Sdistinctive approach to environmental protection emphasizes science, economics and the use of market mechanisms where appropriate to reach well-crafted, durable solutions. We build teams of scientists, lawyers, economists, and other professionals to investigate the scientific causes of environmental problems as well as the market forces and government policies that contribute to them. In the full range of environmental arenas (air, water, climate, land, toxic chemicals, and wildlife), we seek practical and equitable solutions, founded on science, that policy makers, businesses, and others can be urged to incorporate into practice, law, or regulation.

Environmental Defense seeks to hire a full-timeEnergy and Air Quality Policy Specialistin ourAustin, Texasoffice to work in a multi-disciplinary team to devise and advocate for a variety of policy initiatives to reduce air pollution in Texas. The primary responsibilities for this position will be to:

Overall Function:The successful candidate will advocate for and help implement progressive energy and air quality policies at multiple levels of Texas government, including the state legislature, the Texas Public Utility Commission, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and selected local governments. This individual will utilize his/her pre-existing experience and personal network to establish positive relations with influential individuals in each of these settings and to help determine the critical areas to direct our work. The successful candidate must have the requisite experience and discretion to make independent decisions regarding priorities and specific actions to be taken, in the context of the organization's overall goals. More specifically, the selected candidate's responsibilities will include:

Requirements:

Promote Environmental Defense's energy agenda which includes: increasing the Texas Renewable Portfolio Standard; adoption of a wind transmission plan by the PUC; enhancing and simplifying the state's energy efficiency program; ensuring proper use of EPA's policy granting air quality credit to energy efficiency projects in the Texas State Implementation Plan;
Assist in a new initiative to reduce emissions from diesel vehicles and engines in the Houston area;
Represent Environmental Defense in hearings and on relevant committees; and
Plan and design research projects in support of policy advocacy agenda.

Qualifications: General qualifications include:

Master's level degree, preferably in environmental policy, public health, science, or law (candidates without a graduate degree will be considered based on qualifying experience.) At least five years experience working with legislative or other government agency staff on energy or air quality policy within Texas Ability to communicate messages in a succinct manner to the media. Ability to recognize and build on political opportunities for progress. Ability to work both independently and as a leader or team member in a dynamic and creative environment with colleagues and partners of varied background and experience. Ability to work with a variety of concerned parties, including government, private industry, grassroots organizations, academics, and to forge strategic coalitions. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Understanding of regulatory institutions and policies governing energy and air quality management in Texas. Strong analytic skills and an ability to perform rigorous analysis in support of highly visible work. Experience with grant writing and other fundraising activities. IBM PC computer proficiency, experience with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements by November 30, 2004, via email or regular mail to: