Earthjustice is the nation’s premier nonprofit environmental law organization. We take on the biggest, most precedent-setting cases across the country. We wield the power of law and the strength of partnership to protect people’s health; to preserve magnificent places and wildlife; to advance clean energy; and to combat climate change. We partner with thousands of groups, supporters, individuals and communities to engage the critical environmental issues of our time, and bring about positive change. We are here because the earth needs a good lawyer.

Founded in 1971, Earthjustice has a distinguished track record of achieving significant, lasting environmental protections. We achieve this by hiring talented and dedicated staff who share a passion for justice and a healthy environment. Our headquarters are in San Francisco with nine offices across the U.S.

The Research and Policy Analyst supports the CA Regional Office’s programmatic focus on energy and air pollution issues in California by: developing the factual basis for lawsuits, writing and editing comment letters or other advocacy documents, representing Earthjustice in advocacy work with government decision makers, and developing and maintaining relationships with clients and other partners.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Litigation Support Responsibilities (35%)

• Conduct preliminary case inquiries and investigate potential new cases, including preparing factual research, analysis and organization of relevant information and preparation of a written report.
• Conduct factual research to support all stages of litigation.
• Draft client and expert declarations.
• Summarize case-related documents and information.
• Review and interpret regulations, environmental planning documents, technical support documents and other factual and technical information to support legal strategies.
• Draft and submit formal requests to agencies for public records.
• Communicate with clients, experts and government agencies.
• Draft comment letters and present public comments and testimony at agency hearings.
• Conduct media outreach and coordinate with the Communications Department.
• Draft fact sheets, press releases, blogs, new articles, and other materials.
• Produce multi-media materials (including GIS mapping) for case development and litigation.
• Proofread pleadings.
• Draft factual portions of pleadings.

Other Advocacy Responsibilities (65%)

• Conduct outreach to potential and existing client groups, including groups from diverse and/or under-served communities, and otherwise cultivate allies, thoughtful partnerships and coalitions in support of assigned issues.
• Develop relationships with regional, state, and federal agencies and engage in advocacy to promote programmatic priorities.
• In coordination with the California Policy Advocate, track legislation and policy initiatives relating to assigned issues.
• Develop advocacy materials, including but not limited to fact sheets, letters, action alerts, blogs, and other educational materials for affiliated coalitions and the public.
• Perform policy and legislative analysis.
• Coordinate briefings, seminars, and informational sessions with partners.
• Educate decision makers in California on key legal challenges and rulings.
• Serve as spokesperson for Earthjustice on assigned issues.
• Manage projects and other efforts performed on assigned issues by contractors, litigation assistants, interns or others.
• Develop and implement administrative advocacy strategies relating to assigned issues.
• Work with the Communications Department to develop media strategies and conduct outreach to media on assigned issues.
• Support for client coalitions by participating in committee groups, attend conferences, maintain websites, and track political and regulatory developments.
• Track environmental news throughout the region and identify issues in which Earthjustice should engage.
• Monitor developments in programmatic priorities by attending relevant agency hearings and preparing and presenting comments as needed.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with relevant agency staff.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s preferred), preferably in Natural or Applied Sciences.
• Experience or familiarity with energy and/or clean air policy issues and laws preferred.
• Ability to understand scientific issues quickly and transfer this knowledge to attorneys.
• Ability to “translate” factual concepts of case for public relations and fundraising purposes.
• Familiarity with administrative rulemaking process.
• Experience in working with traditional and social media.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and ARC GIS.
• Outstanding online and traditional research skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with clients, experts and agency staff, as well as take proactive role in coalitions and other partnership opportunities.
• Attention to detail.
• Outstanding organizational skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, quickly, proactively, and with deadlines.
• Awareness and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds and orientations.
• Ability to contribute to the creation of a diverse, equitable and inclusive work culture that encourages and celebrates differences.

We offer a mission- and employee-focused work environment and a competitive compensation package, including excellent benefits. Earthjustice is an equal opportunity employer and highly values diversity. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

TO APPLY:

Using the Jobvite application tool, please submit:

• Resume.
• One- or two-page cover letter that addresses at least the following subjects: (1) why you are drawn to Earthjustice’s mission and whether there are particular legal, environmental, or justice issues that inspire you; and (2) aspects of your background that demonstrate competence to work with diverse clients and colleagues.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Please reach out to jobs@earthjustice.org if you are having technical difficulties submitting your application. No phone calls, drop-ins, or hard copies.

 

Earthjustice is driven by a passion for justice, partnership and excellence. Our core values lead us to seek a broad range of perspectives and backgrounds to achieve our mission and to maintain an inclusive environment where all staff are valued and respected. As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to employment practices that ensure that employees and applicants for employment are provided with equal opportunities without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other factor that is not related to