Program Director

Environmental Advocates has served as the states government watchdog in Albany for almost 40 years. We are a nonprofit organization that advances the cause of environmental protection and we seek candidates who are highly motivated to change public policy and build the movement for sustainability and conservation.  

We seek applicants for the position of Program Director for the oversight of advocacy related to how the environment and state environmental programs are impacted by state fiscal policy.

The Program Director will analyze the New York State budget and track spending on environmental projects; the program also performs quantitative analysis on fiscal issues affecting the state's environmental quality. This program also scrutinizes and evaluates the state's ability to implement existing environmental laws.

Responsibilities:

The Program Director oversees and executes analysis and advocacy efforts around the state budget and publishes findings on state spending and other fiscal issues related to environmental quality. This includes, but is not limited to, analyzing staffing levels at state agencies and the impact of staffing on enforcement and policy implementation, monitoring general expenditures and tax expenditures, and crafting and lobbying for legislation within the State Capital pertaining to these issues.

* Lead advocacy efforts that fall within program areas, particularly those that impact the state budget or state operations; 
* Serve as a public spokesperson before the general public and the media;
* Work with the communications staff to develop and execute a communications strategy that includes electronic and web-based communications, media releases, and the development of other outreach materials; 
* Work with program staff to develop strategies for achieving the organization's policy goals; 
* Conduct public outreach and be able to build and lead effective coalitions;
* Serve as a lobbyist and spokesperson before the state legislature; and
* Publish reports and detailed analysis of state spending and revenue, particularly as they pertain to the state's environmental programs.

Project Management

* Establish goals for programs and projects including intermediate objectives and timelines for achieving them;
* Define the strategic direction of programs and projects and identify what Environmental Advocates' priorities should be in those areas; 
* Identify funding opportunities, develop grant proposals and foundation reports, and maintain relationships with funders;
* Manage one to two volunteer interns, when available; and
* Develop and manage project budgets.

Skills/Experience

* At least five years of experience in advocacy, policy analysis, and/or government relations;
* Master's degree (preferred) in political science, public policy, public administration, economics or other applicable fields;
* Detailed knowledge of the New York State budget process; 
* Excellent quantitative analysis skills;
* Ability to juggle competing priorities, manage multiple projects, and make decisions under pressure;
* Willingness to travel as needed;
* Ability to work as part of a team;
* Excellent verbal and writing skills;
* Strong interest in environmental policy and politics; and
* A strong will to succeed against all odds. 

Salary and Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience, excellent health benefits, retirement savings including an employer contribution, and a vibrant, fast-paced work environment.

To Apply

Please email, fax or mail cover letter, resume, references and a writing sample. Deadline: Applications will be received through February 1, 2008.

Robert Moore,
Executive Director
Environmental Advocates of New York
353 Hamilton Street
Albany, NY 12210