Environmental Justice Campaign & Policy Manager

Position Overview:

El Puente is seeking an Environmental Justice and Campaigns Manager to lead its environmental justice agenda, programs, and initiatives. The Environmental Justice Campaigns & Policy Manager will play a vital role in advocating for environmental justice and leading campaigns to address environmental inequalities. You will work with a team of dedicated individuals to develop and implement strategies that promote equitable environmental policies and ensure that marginalized communities are heard and protected. This position requires a deep understanding of environmental justice principles, policy analysis, and community organizing.

This position reports directly to the Director of the Green Light District and will work with El Puente staff, members, and the community. The Environmental Justice and Campaigns Manager is responsible for the day-to-day functions, consistency, and success of El Puentes Environmental Justice program. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, flexible, team-oriented environment, and is motivated by challenges and movement work.

Who we are:

Founded in 1982, El Puente is a youth-centered organization that uses the arts and education to advance racial and environmental justice. Its mission is to inspire and nurture leadership for peace and justice, working as a human rights institution in NYC and Puerto Rico with national and international impact. El Puente creates community-led movements of self-determination through a holistic leadership and membership program model, as a high-impact youth and community development organization. As a staff member of El Puente, the Environmental Justice and Campaigns Manager is expected to uphold and work within the mission, philosophy, and principles of the organization.

El Puente integrates its activities and community campaigns within its eight Youth Leadership Centers, and its nationally recognized public high school, the El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice. Organizing in North Brooklyn, Puerto Rico, and beyond, El Puente is at the forefront of community & youth development, and as such, initiates social policy locally and nationally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Environmental Justice Advocacy:
  • Lead and coordinate advocacy efforts to address environmental justice issues and promote equitable policies.
  • Collaborate with community organizations, environmental groups, and other stakeholders to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
  • Develop and implement campaigns that raise awareness of environmental injustices and advocate for solutions.
• Policy Development and Analysis:
  • Research and analyze existing environmental policies to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
  • Develop policy recommendations and draft legislation to address environmental disparities and promote justice.
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory processes, and provide expert analysis on their potential impact on environmental justice.
• Community Engagement and Organizing:
  • Build relationships with impacted communities and grassroots organizations to understand their concerns and priorities.
  • Organize community meetings, workshops, and events to raise awareness and empower local residents.
  • Mobilize community members to participate in advocacy campaigns and policy-making processes.
• Coalition Building:
  • Foster partnerships and collaborations with diverse stakeholders, including community leaders, environmental organizations, and policymakers.
  • Work closely with coalition partners to develop joint campaigns, share resources, and leverage collective strengths.
  • Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and public hearings to advocate for environmental justice.
• Communications and Public Outreach:
  • Work with the Communications Manager to develop and implement strategic communication plans to engage the public and media on environmental justice issues.
  • Create educational materials, press releases, and social media content to raise awareness and support for campaigns.
  • Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, effectively communicating key messages to diverse audiences.

• Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental studies, public policy, social sciences, or a related field.

• Proven experience in environmental justice advocacy, campaigns, or policy work.

• Strong knowledge of environmental justice principles, policies, and current issues.

• Excellent research, analytical, and policy development skills.

• Experience in community organizing and working with diverse communities.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships and facilitate collaboration.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage campaigns and initiatives.

• Proficiency in data analysis, including the ability to work with environmental and demographic data.

• Familiarity with legislative and regulatory processes related to environmental policy.

• Commitment to social and environmental justice, equity, and inclusion.

COVID-19 considerations:

All new hires must submit proof of vaccination.

Location:

This is a full-time position based in Brooklyn, NY.

Schedule:

Generally Monday through Friday. Work days and hours may shift depending on scheduling needs; the typical schedule will be 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Salary and Benefits:

$60k annual salary. To counter pay inequality and uphold internal parity, salaries are non-negotiable for new and current employees.

El Puente is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to a staff that reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage and seek applications from women, people of color, DREAMers, as well as members of the LGBTQ community.