Overview
Second Nature is a leading non-profit organization working at the nexus of higher education and climate action. This is an exciting role that will support campuses in understanding relevant policy and advancing advocacy opportunities, as relevant. The successful candidate will work directly with campuses and research the latest policies with a special emphasis on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This will be an excellent opportunity to further advance the candidate’s research expertise and translate policy into tangible action at our nation’s educational institutions.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Conduct climate policy research and analysis in support of Second Nature’s advocacy goals and efforts

2. Create tools and resources to inform campuses on federal policy provisions, with a particular emphasis on the IRA, but may also include IIJA and BPIB and the like

3. Participate and provide support for Second Nature’s IRA Community of Practice and Academics for Climate Advocacy Working Group

4. Draft and curate Second Nature’s monthly policy newsletter

5. Explore opportunities to coordinate with federal/state agencies and nonprofits in support of higher education climate action

6. Support Second Nature’s commitment to ensuring equitable experiences, strengthening inclusion acumen, and promoting a culture of inclusivity, belonging, and justice.

7. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in political science and/or 2 years experience in associated policy research or work experience. Bachelor’s degree and graduate work is a plus.

• Demonstrated knowledge of climate policy and/or demonstrated ability to research, track, analyze, and collate relevant policy

• Ability to work independently

• Ability to organize and track progress

• Facilitation skills are a plus

Preferred:

• Knowledge or experience working with higher education institutions on climate-related programs/initiatives

• Demonstrated experience and comfort collaborating with various constituencies (ex: technical experts, faculty, staff, policymakers, peers, and other stakeholders)

• Collaboration skills are highly valued whether through work experience or student projects

• Ability to research and analyze complex issues and information, accurately summarize and draw conclusions of that information, make recommendations, and communicate the information to others in a clear way.

Professional development opportunities may include: 

• Develop research docket/expertise in current climate policy, such as the IRA

• Opportunity to present and participate in various Second Nature working groups and communities of practice

• Opportunity to share work through Second Nature’s communications, education, and campus engagement platforms, such as webinars, workshops, or blogs 

• Opportunity to engage with climate action leaders from colleges and universities in the Second Nature network 

Contacts

Bridget Flynn, Senior Manager of Climate Programs, bflynn@secondnature.org (she/they)

Position Details and Classification

This position is 100% remote. The work schedule is flexible, but entails a commitment of approximately 20 hours a week, with virtual supervision from Second Nature staff.  A strong preference for some of the hours worked to fall within 10am-3pm Eastern Time Mon - Thurs.

There will be an opportunity to travel twice during the one-year Fellowship, for both an in-person Staff Retreat and the 2025 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit. All travel expenses will be covered by Second Nature and these two in-person opportunities are highly recommended, but not mandatory for Fellows.

Second Nature offers a dynamic and creative work environment with customized experiences for project-based employees designed to be challenging and build desired skill sets. The Fellow may be involved in team meetings and planning efforts as appropriate. This position reports to the Senior Manager of Climate Programs.

This is a one-year Fellowship with a stipend of $30,000. Benefits other than Paid Time Off are not offered for this position.

Applications will be accepted until May 5, 2024 at 11:59pm PST.

Second Nature is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any of the following: race, religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or gender characteristics, national origin, religion, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military service or veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.

Second Nature is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Second Nature will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact info@secondnature.org

The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States of America.

Who Should Apply

Studies have shown that women, people of color, and other under-represented groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the position, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. Second Nature will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role. 

Faculty and Staff
Please forward this application to students that may be a good fit for this experience.

How to Apply
Submit a cover letter and resume for consideration. Please be prepared to also provide a briefing, paper, presentation, screenshot of social media content, or similar material to demonstrate policy involvement.