Research Associate, Conservation Policy

Reports to: Director, Public Lands
Staff reporting to this position: None
Department: Energy and Environment
Position classification: Exempt, full time; Union - Level 3
Compensation range: $56,000–$64,400 per annum
Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary
American Progress has an immediate opening for a Research Associate on the Conservation Policy team to conduct research and analysis related to public land, water, ocean, and energy policy. The ideal candidate will have strong writing skills; an attention to detail; a commitment to conservation, addressing climate change, and improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in conservation policy; and a willingness to work on a wide range of policy issues. 

The position will report to the Director of Public Lands. Experience in conservation policy is not required. 

This role will be driven by the American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country. 

Responsibilities: 

• Conduct research and analysis on conservation, climate, energy, and equity policy issues in coordination with American Progress’ Energy and Environment team, including conducting internet research, proofreading, fact-checking, data analysis, and editing documents.
• Help develop a range of written products to influence the policy debate on key conservation issues, including memos, reports, rapid-response statements, op-eds, and social media.
• Engage in rapid-response research and writing in response to policy developments.
• Perform light administrative duties, such as helping track publications and timelines, tracking congressional hearings and other political developments, and coordinating meetings.
• Represent American Progress in external meetings with Capitol Hill staff, coalition partners, and media contacts to advance American Progress’ work.
• Help embody a culture of justice, equity, and inclusion by performing tasks with these values at their core.
• Develop expertise in assigned areas of responsibility.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• At least two years of professional experience in conservation and/or environmental policy or a related field. This can include internships, activist roles, and more; volunteer experience may also be taken into account.
• Research and analytical skills, including attention to detail and proficient quantitative skills. Experience with geographic information system (GIS) software is preferred.
• Proficient in written and verbal communication, including the ability to communicate policy matters to a nonpolicy audience.
• Ability to independently plan ahead, prioritize, allocate time, balance projects, and coordinate with internal and external partners.
• Willingness to take ownership over independent projects. 
• Eagerness to learn and develop expertise in the conservation policy field, including public lands and ocean policy, energy policy, and ensuring equal access to nature. 
• Ability to work under and meet deadlines in a team setting.
• An understanding of how environmental and conservation issues intersect with racism, economic, and social inequality, with a passion for working to dismantle these systems.
• Commitment to treating all partners, internal and external, with courtesy and respecting those of different cultural backgrounds.
• An understanding and willingness to learn how power, privilege, and oppression manifest at the individual, interpersonal, and team levels.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals—in particular, progressive values such as environmental and social justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

American Progress offers full and competitive benefits packages. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by IFPTE Local 70 and has a salary range of $56,000–$64,400.