Interested in waste, toxics, or energy issues? Want to work for the grassroots environmental justice movement? Check out this opportunity:
Operations Coordinator
JOB DESCRIPTION: Energy Justice Network is a small informal non-profit with little structure. We're looking for someone to help us develop organizationally to bring the group to the next level.
This position involves fundraising and grantwriting with some related roles, managing volunteers, events and membership.
This isn't quite as daunting as it sounds.
The main responsibility would be fundraising and grantwriting. The other roles aren't that intense. Volunteer management just involves keeping in touch with a small number of volunteers and keeping them involved. Event management is mainly about following up with requests for us to provide speakers on college campuses and ensuring that we're signed up to speak and/or table at relevant activist conferences. Membership development is mainly a matter of getting periodic updates to our major email lists to let the world know what we're up to.
DESIRED EXPERIENCE/TRAITS:
- Grantwriting and fundraising experience is pretty important, but not a deal-breaker (it can be learned).
- Strong communications skills required.
- Attention to detail and good organizational skills required.
- Good overall computer skills required
- Hard-working, able to work independently and cooperatively.
- Experience in environmental / environmental justice issues a big plus.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: [position open until filled; still open as of 5/6/2008]
TIME FRAME: The position lasts until the end of 2008, but if things work out, we hope you'll stay with us longer-term.
COMPENSATION: $12,000/year minimum (your success at fundraising will build on this) plus free food and housing available at our activist house in Philadelphia.
Inquiries and resumes/applications may be sent by email or you can call Mike Ewall at 215-743-4884.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the internship paid?
We provide free food and housing plus $1,000/month stipend.
What are the intern qualifications?
You must be 18 or older. We review each application on its own merits, but we always look for a sincere interest in environmental justice and a strong work ethic.
What documents are required?
A résumé that includes your activist and leadership experience, details on your computer skills and an indication of your research and writing skills. Please also include references.
What kind of work will I be doing?
Reading lots of email lists, newsletters and other info sources to locate data that needs to be tracked relating to companies planning dirty energy facilities, details on the facilities and info on any community opposition. Researching on the web and via phone calls to state agencies and activist groups and community members will be required to enhance this data. Building networks of community activists in the course of this work will also be involved.
What are the work hours?
This is not a 9-5 office. Work hours are flexible, but amount to more than full-time. We do a lot in the evenings and there are often conferences, protests and other events that we attend on weekends.
Will I be able to travel?
Yes. We go to many conferences, meetings and community organizing events, mostly within Pennsylvania.
...I meant, on my own.
Yes. You're free to take breaks and vacations as needed, but slackers don't last long here.
What kind of training will I receive?
You will have the opportunity to learn a lot, if you listen and watch and participate. We can provide formal, structured training if you desire it. Interns here tend to learn a lot about energy, waste and toxics issues, community organizing, anti-corporate issues, independent politics, as well as gaining research and computer skills.
Where will I live?
The Action Center is a house/office with bedrooms upstairs. There are two bedrooms for volunteers / interns - one single and one double.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your clothes, pillow, toiletries and your computer (if you have one). Sheets, towels, laundry and dish detergent,
cookware, dishes, and utensils are provided. We have a washer and dryer.
Will I have Internet access?
Yes, we have high-speed internet access that you can use at all times.
What if I don't have a computer?
Let us know well in advance and we will have one set up for you.
What's the food like?
We collectively cook and eat great vegan food (vegan = no meat or dairy), but we're not strict about sugar or really obscure ingredients. Everyone is expected to help cook and clean. If you have allergies or strong dislikes, let us know.
What are the house rules?
We don't allow alcohol, smoking or illegal drugs.
What else should I know?
We have four cats, so if you're allergic to them, that could be a problem.
What about...?
If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to call us between 11am and midnight, eastern time, at 215-743-4884. Ask for Mike or Traci.
