Policy Analyst

About Conservation Voters of PA:
The political voice for Pennsylvania’s environment, Conservation Voters of PA (CVPA) works to pass sound conservation policies, promotes pro-environment candidates for office, and holds elected officials accountable for the decisions they make.

CVPA is seeking a Policy Analyst to develop and promote federal and state policy, advocacy, and educational content as part of a campaign to enact bold climate policy at the federal level. The ideal candidate will be able to conduct in-depth and substantive research into various areas of environmental policy. Key job duties involve researching and writing talking points, policy reports, fact sheets, and white papers that can be used internally and in public-facing communications. The Policy Analyst is expected to be a thought leader and expert as it pertains to state and federal environmental policies and will be called upon to lend their expertise in public presentations, policy hearings, and other high-visibility venues. The Policy Analyst will work with the Political Director to ensure the needs of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and their communities are centered in CVPA’s policy work. 

Job Duties:

• Develop written and verbal content including white papers, fact sheets, memos, talking points, and presentations about the environmental impacts of relevant state and federal legislation, particularly their impacts on BIPOC communities.
• Develop briefing materials for local, state, and federal policymakers.
• Identify ways to use CVPA resources to support the work of grassroots and grasstops groups as well as state and federal legislators.
• Conduct research and analysis and synthesize peer-reviewed and expert white papers on the impacts of both climate change and localized environmental issues in Pennsylvania, centering issues that continue to have unique impacts on BIPOC individuals and communities.
• Participate in, and potentially lead, environmental and advocacy coalition groups, advocating for diverse representation in membership in all groups in which CVPA participates.
• Support CVPA’s communications team by identifying policy priorities to amplify through digital, social, and earned media channels and reviewing content as needed.
• Work with other CVPA departments to conduct outreach to stakeholders, including experts, coalitions, partner organizations, and civic leaders, as necessary.
• Track and monitor statewide, federal, environmental and industry news relevant to assigned issue areas; attend agency hearings, community events, and conferences. 

The following skills are required for the successful applicant:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Environmental Science or related field.
• Minimum of 2-5 years of relevant professional experience including reading and analyzing policies and legislation, advocacy, issue campaign, or political work (graduate studies may be included).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and synthesize complicated material and present it to a general audience.
• Demonstrated ability to meet tight deadlines, and an ability to respond rapidly to breaking news and legislative maneuvers.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial justice and equity.
• Collaborative spirit. Must be a dependable team player.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong commitment to CVPA’s mission.

The following skills and experience are preferred for the successful applicant:

• Master’s degree preferable in Political Science, Public Policy, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Experience working with stakeholders, advocacy organizations, and press, and media platforms.
• Excellent personal organization and time management skills.

Compensation: $45,000-55,000 depending on qualifications. Benefits include medical and dental coverage; 401K with employer match; paid vacation and sick leave; life insurance; and short- and long-term disability coverage.

Position Requirements: This is a full-time position based in Harrisburg, but telecommuting is an option with regular travel to Harrisburg. Evening and weekend hours and frequent travel within the state and to Washington, DC may be required. Applicants must have access to reliable transportation, as this position will require frequent travel within the state and some travel to Washington, DC. Reimbursement for mileage and/or required travel-related expenses will be reimbursed pursuant to CVPA policy and as required by applicable law.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to Molly Parzen at molly@conservationpa.org with the subject line: “Policy Analyst” no later than March 24, 2021. No phone calls please.

Conservation Voters of PA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a just, equitable, and inclusive workplace, and encourages people from all backgrounds to apply. CVPA celebrates diversity and is committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; religion; national origin; ancestry; citizenship status; disability; association or relationship with a person with a disability; use of a guide or support animal because of the blindness, deafness or physical handicap of the user or because the user is a handler or trainer of support or guide animals; familial status; veteran status; pregnancy or related condition; having a GED rather than a high school diploma; or any other basis protected by law. CVPA’s hiring and employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, and business needs.