The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) seeks a talented Media Relations Specialist to join our growing communications team with a focus on generating earned media coverage for ELPC’s clean energy and climate change advocacy initiatives. The Media Relations Specialist will pitch reporters; draft and place press releases and Op-eds; plan media events; work collaboratively with other environmental groups on communications strategies throughout the Midwest; and participate as a member of ELPC’s multidisciplinary project teams. This is a great position for a top-rate communicator who wants to make a difference in accelerating the Midwest’s clean energy economic transition and advancing climate change solutions. This is an extraordinary time in which ELPC’s effective legal and policy advocacy – backed by strong economics, science and public engagement – are essential to protect our core environmental values.
ORGANIZATION: ELPC is the Midwest’s leading public interest environmental legal advocacy organization and among the nation’s leaders. ELPC develops and leads successful strategic environmental advocacy campaigns to improve environmental quality and protect our natural heritage. ELPC’s multidisciplinary staff of 45+ talented public interest attorneys, M.B.A. environmental business specialists, policy advocates, and communications specialists, brings a strong and effective combination of skills to solve environmental problems and improve the quality of life in our communities. ELPC is headquartered in downtown Chicago and has eight additional offices across the Midwest and in Washington, D.C. For more information please see www.elpc.org.
RESPONSIBILITIES: This position will build and execute earned media strategies to generate press coverage around ELPC’s clean energy and climate change initiatives. ELPC’s Media Relations Specialists pitch and build relationships with key reporters and editors across nine states in the Midwest and nationally, draft press releases, Op-eds, talking points, and other media material as well as conceive of and run press events around the region.
QUALIFICATIONS: A Bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree preferred. At least 5 years’ experience in strategic communications or a significant background as an environmental or energy reporter with a track record of developing strong relationships with reporters, successfully placing stories, Op-eds, etc. The ideal candidate is already familiar with clean energy and climate change policy, an excellent writer, able to work quickly, manage internal and external deadlines, and work well in a team environment.
LOCATION: Chicago preferred, other ELPC offices may be considered for the right candidate.
SALARY: Commensurate with experience and with ELPC’s salary structure that is competitive with other major public interest environmental organizations. Excellent benefits provided.
APPLICATION: Applicants should send: cover letter; resume; three professional references; and a representative work sample (e.g., press releases, Op-eds, etc.) to: MediaRelationsPosition@ELPC.org. Telephone inquiries are discouraged. ELPC is an equal opportunity employer and is continually seeking to diversify its staff.
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