Are you a relationship-builder and skilled program manager who thrives in dynamic, multi-partner environments? Are you looking for an opportunity to help bridge local government and community organizations in service of urban greening projects that are at the nexus of nature, climate and justice? If so, you might be the perfect candidate for USDN’s Government […]
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Job Title: Greening America’s Cities Government Liaison
Location: Chicago, IL
Company: Urban Sustainability Directors Network
Website: greenjobsearch.org
Job Description:
Are you a relationship-builder and skilled program manager who thrives in dynamic, multi-partner environments? Are you looking for an opportunity to help bridge local government and community organizations in service of urban greening projects that are at the nexus of nature, climate, and justice? If so, you might be the perfect candidate for USDN’s Government Liaison position!
Program Overview:
In Summer 2023, the Bezos Earth Fund launched Greening America’s Cities (GAC), a new, multi-year $400M initiative. The program primarily invests in community-led environmental justice organizations through 2030. In the City of Chicago, $50M was granted to 24 community-based organizations and 6 national partners. The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) collaborates with local governments, serves as a resource to community grantees, and connects with peers in other Greening America’s Cities.
Position Overview:
The Government Liaison position is a unique opportunity for an individual with a passion for sustainability and environmental justice. The position requires demonstrated excellence in the nexus of local government and community-building and engagement. The Government Liaison will report to the Special Project Manager at USDN and the Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer at the City of Chicago’s Department of Environment.
Responsibilities:
– Serve as the primary liaison and relationship manager on behalf of the City of Chicago’s Department of Environment and other local government jurisdictions
– Facilitate technical assistance support to the City of Chicago Department of Environment and community-based organization grantees
– Organize regular meetings and trainings with local government and community-based organizations
– Attend in-person meetings and convenings, representing the City of Chicago Department of Environment as needed
– Facilitate community engagement at local, county, state, and national levels
– Collaborate with the Earth Fund Community Fellow to develop a shared vision for success of the GAC initiative
– Build systems to ensure active information sharing between the grantees in Chicago and other GAC cities
– Contribute to written briefs, blogs, interviews, videos, and other educational materials
Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s degree required
– Three to five years experience delivering results with community stakeholders and working with diverse community-based organizations, community leaders, government agencies, and associated stakeholders
– Well-developed network of relationships and deep understanding of the City of Chicago’s environmental and climate justice and/or greening ecosystems, and knowledge of Chicago communities and their needs
– Experience working within or in close collaboration with local governments and understanding of city processes and systems
– Willingness to travel nationally several times a year
Terms of Employment:
– Job Classification: Regular, Full-time, Exempt, Term Limited
– Work Location: Hybrid based in Chicago, IL
– Salary: $100,000 – 115,000
– Term: This is a term-limited, grant-funded position through June 30, 2026
– Benefits: USDN offers a robust benefits package, including 100% employer-covered health, dental, disability, and life insurance, flexible leave policy, generous paid leave, and 401(k) program
To Apply:
To apply, submit your application through the online application program (Breezy). Include your contact information, attach your cover letter and resume as one document, and complete a demographic questionnaire.
Urban Sustainability Directors Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from qualified people of all gender expressions and identities, sexual orientations, racialized communities, Indigenous persons, veterans, and persons with disabilities.
About the Partners:
The City of Chicago Department of Environment is a leader of innovative environmental initiatives in the city. The Great Lakes Climate Adaptation Network is a regional network focused on addressing climate challenges in the Great Lakes region. Urban Sustainability Directors Network supports local governments in implementing sustainable practices and creating resilient communities. The Bezos Earth Fund is a philanthropic initiative that invests in environmental justice organizations and climate-related projects.