Environmental Justice Organizer

Company Description

Clean Water Action is a non-profit organization with 160,000 members in Michigan working to empower people to take action to protect America's waters, build healthy communities and to make democracy work for all of us. For over 50 years Clean Water Action has succeeded in winning some of the nation's most important environmental protections through grassroots organizing, expert policy research and political advocacy focused on holding elected officials accountable to the public. Our recent victories include passing a drinking water standard for PFAs in Michigan, setting the highest standard for lead in drinking water in the country, and funding lead pipe replacement across the state.

Job Description

As an Environmental Justice Organizer at Clean Water Action, you will be working with our field canvass to speak to Michigan residents every day about local issues, informing and educating them to build and channel  support into action. Over the past 53 years, we have worked on a wide variety of issues connected to water quality, water access and environmental justice. 

Right now, we're working to shut down the Line 5 pipeline and Enbridge's proposed replacement - an oil tunnel. Line 5 is a 70 year old oil pipeline that pumps 23 million gallons of oil daily under the Straits of Mackinac. It is a ticking time bomb in the heart of the Great Lakes run by Enbridge, the same company responsible for the Kalamazoo River oil spill in 2010. Enbridge is now proposing to replace the pipeline with an oil tunnel, dug 200 feet below the lakebed, through bedrock. The planned construction will take place while the original pipeline is still operating.  Michigan needs to move away from fossil fuels and shut down this dangerous plan. We’re pressuring the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy to deny Enbridge’s permit request for the tunnel and to protect the Great Lakes. 

Responsibilities of this position include:

• Ensuring communities are aware of our issues and given the tools to achieve solutions by organizing and fundraising with our field canvass team. 
• Aiding community members in writing letters or otherwise contacting their lawmakers on these issues.
• Identifying volunteers who will work with us to hold politicians accountable for their votes on environmental and health related issues.
• Participating in occasional press conferences, lobby days, and other events.

Starting rate at $20.00 per hour. An attractive benefit package is available. Hours are from 2pm to 10:30pm in East Lansing. Full time and part time positions are available with a minimum commitment of 3 days per week Monday-Friday. This is an in person position. Employees are expected to be masked indoors and in work vehicles. Opportunities for career development are possible. Additionally, this position can be used towards internship or class credit depending on the requirements of the school or program.

From this opportunity, you will receive training on environmental issues including regular seminars, training in the legislative process and the political arena, and you will develop strong communication and organizational skills. You will be working as part of a highly motivated and dedicated team who are interested in your personal development. We also provide opportunities for travel to national conferences, and to other offices across the country.

Qualifications

Candidates must enjoy working directly with people and be comfortable engaging with community members from a wide variety of backgrounds. We look for candidates who have strong communication skills and possess good attention to detail. Candidates must possess cultural competence and a commitment to racial justice and equity, and should have an interest in non-profit work, policy, or politics.  Multilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund values a diverse workplace. People of color and those from economically disadvantaged communities are particularly encouraged to apply. Clean Water Action is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. This policy covers all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, terminations, pay, and the work environment. 

* Unfortunately, we do not provide any housing assistance. We welcome applicants from around the country, but please only apply if you have a specific plans to be located in East Lansing, MI. If you don't already have plans to be in Michigan please consider applying for one of our positions listed in a region that is closer to your home or school base.

* Clean Water Action adheres to all the principles of professional practice set forth by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. In all locations we operate, Clean Water Action complies with all FLSA requirements and applicable state labor requirements.