Associate Director, State Climate Policy

Reports to: Senior Director, Domestic Climate

Staff reporting to this position: None

Department: Energy and Environment 

Position classification: Exempt, full time; Nonunion - Level 6

Compensation: $77,000–$92,400 per annum

Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress is seeking a highly motivated and organized professional with a strong climate policy, advocacy, and coalition-building background to serve as Associate Director for State Climate Policy. This position is part of the Domestic Climate team in the Energy and Environment department.

American Progress is focused on encouraging nationwide adoption of ambitious and equitable state and local climate policies—with a particular focus on promoting affordable clean energy, public health, and high-quality union jobs. Goals for this role include raising the bar for climate leadership and new ambitious state and local policies, as well as bringing together the collective strength of subnational governments in the federal and international policy arenas. Successful outcomes will require coalition-building and advocacy strategies that can engage broad and diverse constituencies.

The successful candidate will be guided by American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country. The Associate Director will join a committed group of colleagues with extensive research expertise to strengthen American Progress’ policy and advocacy work.

Responsibilities:

• Lead American Progress’ work to support bold state and local climate leadership and policy development and to strengthen the role of subnational governments and leaders to drive progress in federal and international policy arenas.
• Lead American Progress’ State-Federal Climate Initiative engagement, including working with partners to amplify successful state climate action and to ensure continued state and local government climate leadership.
• Author written products, including reports, op-eds, messaging guidance, and talking points.
• Plan and host coalition meetings, convenings, and public events with diverse partners to share ideas and identify key lessons learned on climate action from the federal, state, and local levels.
• Identify, cultivate, and foster productive working relationships with partner organizations and leaders at the national, state, and local levels who support climate action.
• Represent American Progress in media and social media communications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 
Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• At least six years of relevant experience—which may include experience in organizing, campaigns, legislative and administrative advocacy, or coalition building—or relevant graduate studies in related fields.
• Excellent interpersonal and public speaking skills.
• Superb research and writing ability.
• Experience building new connections and relationships necessary to build trust, increase engagement, and make advocacy efforts more effective.
• Collaborative attitude to support existing partnerships including with labor, environmental justice, health, climate, and community groups; trade and business associations; and elected officials.
• Background and expertise in policy research and analysis to help inform state and local government policymakers and advocates.
• Demonstrated understanding of state- and local-level politics and policymaking, with strong preference for climate and environmental policy experience.
• Demonstrated ability to make strategic connections between external partners, facilitate sharing of ideas, and plan convenings and coalition meetings, all with minimal oversight.
• Ability to take initiative, seek support as needed, plan ahead, and set priorities.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals, particularly equitable and just action to tackle the climate crisis that improves peoples’ lives, especially those who have been or will be disproportionately impacted by toxic pollution, climate impacts, and shifting industries.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position has a salary range of $77,000–$92,400 per annum.

Preferred application deadline: April 19, 2025