Seeking a Maine Policy Associate to work directly with the Maine Policy Manager in furthering AMC's conservation interests in the state of Maine, with some work in northern NH. The focus of this position encompasses AMC's involvement in the Mahoosuc Initiative, public funding for land conservation programs, engaging grassroots support for strategic land conservation projects, building a coalition for outdoor recreation, and promoting appropriate management of public land. As our Maine Woods Initiative (MWI) is a substantial component of AMC's efforts in Maine, the Maine Policy Associate will also work with other MWI and Conservation staff to ensure continuity and consistency between the MWI and other Maine conservation issues. This is a year-round exempt position based in Southern Maine with excellent benefits, reporting to the Maine Policy Manager.
Responsibilities
- Act as AMC's point person for our conservation and community work in the Mahoosuc Region of northern NH/western ME. The Mahoosuc Initiative is a community-based coalition effort to address conservation and local economic and community needs in the two-state Mahoosuc region.
- Represent AMC in the Maine state legislature on a defined spectrum of legislative issues, including funding for state conservation agencies.
- Implement grassroots outreach efforts in support of conservation projects of interest to AMC and public funding for those projects.
- Assist in direct and grassroots lobbying efforts in support of conservation funding programs including the Forest Legacy program, the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and the Land for Maine's Future program.
- Work with the Take it Outside Coalition to identify ways in which AMC can both lead and partner with other groups to build a broad outdoor recreation constituency in Maine.
- Track regulatory issues before the Land Use Regulation Commission and brief AMC staff on items of interest.
- Work with the Bureau of Public Lands on public lands management and funding.
- Represent AMC in Maine in statewide climate change coalition efforts.
- Assist with MWI community and grassroots relations efforts.
- With Policy Manager, work with and support AMC's Maine Chapter.
- Coordinate AMC's web and email efforts directed to Maine in support of conservation advocacy.
- Other duties as necessary or assigned.
Employment Qualifications
- Grassroots outreach and communication experience
- At least two years of environmental policy experience, preferably at both the state and federal level
- Bachelor's Degree in related field or equivalent experience is required
- Knowledge of Maine conservation issues strongly preferred
- Strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to listen to, and respect, a broad range of opinions and perspectives
- Knowledge of, and love for, outdoor recreation
- Non-profit experience including familiarity with grant-writing
- Computer skills including - but not limited to - PowerPoint, Excel, and a basic knowledge of GIS technology
- Willingness to work nights and weekends with frequent travel, mostly within Maine, but also to Boston, MA, and New Hampshire
- Most work is performed in a standard office setting. Physical abilities to stand, sit, walk, climb stairs and operate standard office equipment required. Physical ability to travel to all AMC destinations in all weather conditions is strongly preferred, including hiking and skiing on unimproved trails
- A demonstrated commitment to the AMC mission and goals
- A sense of humor is preferred
To Reply
Please send resume and cover letter to amcjob143@outdoors.org by January 12, 2010. For questions, contact Bryan Wentzell, AMC Maine Policy Manager at bwentzell@outdoors.org (do not send resumes to this email).
Benefits of Working With the AMC
The AMC offers a great benefits package! Here is a partial list that highlights some benefits offered for our regular full-time employees. Benefits may vary based on position.
- Group Health Plan: 72-75 percent employer paid.
- Group Life Insurance: 100 percent employer paid.
- Long-term Disability Insurance: 100 percent employer paid.
- Vacation: Three weeks accrued each year.
- Holidays: Thirteen paid holidays per year.
- Use of AMC Facilities: Free and discounted rates.
- Free AMC membership.
The Appalachian Mountain Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace.
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