Since 1843, Maine Audubon has worked to conserve Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action. Maine Audubon has eight public centers and sanctuaries across the state, seven chapters, and more than 30,000 members, supporters, and volunteers, making it the oldest and largest Maine-based conservation organization. Maine Audubon is hiring a Policy Advocate who is passionate about conserving Maine wildlife and habitat.

This position will work collaboratively with Maine Audubon biologists, ecologists, educators, communication specialists, and attorneys to develop and execute policy priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. The Policy Advocate will be responsible for spearheading our organization’s efforts to transition Maine to a clean energy future – leading our work at all levels of government to advance solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies and infrastructure while minimizing impact to wildlife and habitat, as well as supporting our advocacy efforts in areas such as land use planning, environmental education, environmental justice, and more.
An ideal candidate will have demonstrable policy analysis; campaign building and strategic communication skills; and political acumen. Most importantly, the ideal candidate will be skilled in building and maintaining strong relationships, both internally and externally, including with elected officials; natural resource professionals; Maine Audubon members; and conservation and climate partners.

This position is based out of Maine Audubon’s headquarters in Falmouth (Gilsland Farm), with frequent, required travel to Augusta, occasional travel to other parts of the state, and opportunities to work both onsite and remotely. Advocacy Department staff use vehicles available to staff and carpool as much as possible, but mileage is reimbursed for personal vehicle use. Candidates must reside in Maine or be willing to relocate. For reference, Advocacy Department staff currently spend an estimated 33% of their time working in Augusta and other parts of the state, 33% onsite at Gilsland Farm, and 33% remote averaged over the year. Throughout the legislative session, which comprises 4-6 months of the year, staff spend up to 90% of their time in Augusta and other parts of the state.

Essential Duties:

● Work collaboratively with Advocacy, Conservation, Education, and Communication Department staff to develop policy priorities and positions in alignment with the organization’s Strategic Plan and priority projects.
● Draft and present legislative testimony.
● Lobby before legislative and executive branches on behalf of Maine Audubon’s policy agenda at the local, state, and federal levels.
● Review and analyze agency rulemaking proposals as well as draft and present public comments.
● Represent Maine Audubon on legislatively-appointed committees or other committees tackling issues consistent with Maine Audubon’s mission.
● Coordinate and collaborate with partner organizations and coalitions to achieve shared objectives.
● Actively collaborate with the Communications Team to advance Maine Audubon’s policy priorities through strategic communications, including email, Maine Audubon’s quarterly magazine, social media outlets, and earned media.
● Assist with managing grassroots outreach to members, supporters, and new activists.

Qualifications:
● Bachelor’s degree and 3 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
● Experience with legislative, policy, and/or planning initiatives at the local, state and/or federal levels, including strategic communication strategies.
● Familiarity with Maine environmental laws and regulations.
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
● Strong interpersonal skills and experience working collaboratively with a variety of groups and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including government agencies, elected officials, and partners.
● Highly organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated, and committed to the organization’s mission and values.

Physical Requirements: Able to work occasional evenings, weekends, and travel; operate computers and other program equipment; and sit or stand at a desk for extended periods of time. Access to a vehicle and valid driver’s license.