Biotechnology Innovation Organization - Attorney for Agriculture and Environment

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• Provide regulatory counseling and litigation management regarding legal, policy, and regulatory matters for the Agriculture and Environment groups at BIO. This advocacy counseling primarily involves any litigation and regulatory activities related to USDA, EPA and FDA, as well as any related legislative and advocacy activities. 
• Also serve as in-house counsel providing legal services for the organization, including supervising compliance and contractual matters, as well as training for BIO attorneys and staff.

Duties:

• Provide legal assistance, training and supervision, as needed, on contracts and compliance, as well as state, federal, and international legislative, regulatory, and trade-related matters for BIO on non-health matters, including evaluating and developing comments on regulatory proposals, proposed legislation, and other documents.
• Serve as legal counsel to the Agriculture and Environment groups at BIO, including regulatory counsel and support, litigation management and support, antitrust counsel, corporate legal support, and advice and support on governance and compliance issues.
• Serve as counsel to section Boards for Agriculture and Environment, and all related staff-level committees, work streams and working groups.
• Provide legal assistance on voluntary industry self-regulatory initiatives (e.g., product stewardship and transparency) and communication campaigns related to Agriculture and Environment. 
• Manage the efficient use of outside counsel within all of the above subject matters.
• Assist with other legal activities of the organization, as requested by the General Counsel (GC) and/or the President, Advocacy, Law and Public Policy Division. 
• This attorney position will report to the Division President for all policy, regulatory and legislative matters, and to the GC for administrative, contract, legal compliance, and any litigation matters.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of trade association-specific law (including antitrust and consumer protection), as well as contracts, compliance, and general legislative and regulatory advocacy laws.
• Knowledge of the regulatory and legal framework for agricultural biotechnology, and/or industrial biotechnology (including renewable fuels, bio-based products, and/or bio-based chemicals) under the Plant Protection Act, the relevant Food and Drug laws, the Clean Air Act, TSCA, FIFRA, and any other relevant environmental laws.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulatory/legislative processes, including administrative law principles and procedures, and experience with environmental or other litigation involving government entities.
• Knowledge of the biotechnology industry strongly preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively and accurately with other BIO staff, member companies, Board members, regulatory agency personnel, and internal and external counsel for other entities and organizations.
• Strong inter-personal skills, and the ability to build consensus and foster compromise among sometimes competing interests.
• The ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Excellent academic credentials, including J.D. degree.
• Admission in good standing to the District of Columbia (DC) bar or, alternatively, admission to the bar of another U.S. jurisdiction and ability to gain admission to the DC bar as needed.
• At least five (5) years of relevant legal experience required, preferably including, or in addition to, experience in a trade association, member company, government regulatory agency, or similar organization.
• Experience interacting with Boards of Directors and senior executives strongly preferred.

For more information, click here.

Congressional Research Service - Analyst in Agricultural Policy

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• The Resources, Science and Industry Division is seeking an Analyst in Agriculture Policy. The analyst will cover agriculture policy with a focus on domestic agricultural policies and markets with an emphasis on crop insurance and/or farm income support programs. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the history, trends, economics, and current status of domestic agricultural policies and markets and demonstrate ability to develop expertise in new areas.

Duties:

• The Resources, Science and Industry Division (RSI) of the Congressional Research Service (CRS) is seeking an Analyst in Agriculture Policy. The analyst will conduct analyses that inform congressional deliberations on agriculture policy with a focus on domestic agricultural policies and markets. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the history, trends, economics, and current status of domestic agricultural policies and markets with an emphasis on crop insurance and/or farm income support programs, as well as associated legislative, economic, and regulatory issues and interrelationships with other key agricultural policy areas.
• This position requires the ability to utilize analytical methods and techniques to analyze policy issues for the U.S. Congress. Applicants should be comfortable with quantitative approaches in research and familiar with issues related to domestic agriculture policies and markets with an emphasis on crop insurance and/or farm income support programs. Strong writing and presentation skills, including the ability to synthesize complex analyses into easy-to-understand language for a non-technical audience, are required. The analyst will provide objective, expert policy analysis and consultation to congressional committees, Members, and staff, including preparing objective, authoritative, non-partisan, and innovative analytical studies on policy issues of national or international significance; providing personal assistance as a national expert on public policy issues throughout the legislative process, including analyzing and evaluating legislative proposals; and planning and leading multi-disciplinary team research projects and seminars.
• CRS works exclusively for the United States Congress, providing policy and legal analysis to committees and Members of both the House and Senate, regardless of party affiliation. As a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress, CRS has been a valued and respected resource on Capitol Hill for more than a century.
• CRS is well known for analysis that is authoritative, confidential, objective, and nonpartisan. Its highest priority is to ensure that Congress has immediate access to the nation's best thinking on public policy issues of interest to its Members and Committees.
• Analyst duties include:
• Preparing a variety of objective, non-partisan analytical studies and descriptive background reports, memoranda and other written materials on subjects or public policy issues of national significance that are within the employee’s area of professional knowledge.
• Providing personal consultation and assistance to congressional committees, Members and staff on public policy issues throughout the legislative process by providing information and analysis, and applying professional subject-area knowledge.
• Participating in CRS seminars, workshops, and/or outreach programs for congressional committees, Members and staff.
• Participating in or leading team research projects and seminars.
• Locating and providing information requested by Members and committees of Congress and their staff.
• The employee is also expected to develop over time the skills necessary to provide public policy and legislative analysis and consultation to congressional committees, Members, and staff at increasingly sophisticated levels.
• The Congressional Research Service, within the Library of Congress, is part of the Legislative Branch of the federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of agriculture policy.
• Ability to analyze public policy issues.
• Ability to write in a public policy context.
• Ability to convey analysis and information orally through briefings, consultations and other presentations.
• Ability to lead collaborative research tasks.
• Ability to exercise objectivity in all phases of analysis and consultation.
• Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.
• Although it is the Library's policy to afford the maximum pay benefit to employees when setting rates of pay, a new appointee who has had no previous Federal service will generally be paid the minimum step of the grade.
• The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities who meet eligibility requirements are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.

For more information, click here.

Publisher’s Platform - Food Safety Advocate

Seattle, WA

Description:

• For those of you who read these fine pages of Food Safety News produced by Dan, Coral, Joe, Jonan, Cookson, and our many contributors on a daily basis for the last ten years, I try not – well, at least – not too often, to interject my legal side with my publisher side. Here is an exception – Marler Clark needs help. Well, more precisely, consumers of food around the world need help.
• Since 2017 there been over 500 people in the U.S. and Canada who have suffered E. coli O157:H7 illnesses linked to leafy greens grown in the U.S.  Of these, nearly 200 have been hospitalized with 50 suffering hemolytic uremic syndrome (acute kidney failure).  There have been seven reported deaths.
• Looking for someone who is willing to think of this not as a job, but more of a calling.  I want someone who will happily work besides some of the finest lawyers, doctors, nurses, epidemiologists, paralegals, experts and staff in the food safety business.  We are dedicated to our clients 24/7/365 and I expect applicants to feel the same.  This is NOT a 9-5 gig.
•  If you have been out of law school 2-5 years, send your cover letter, resume and writing sample to bmarler@marlerclark.com or bclark@marlerclark.com before the end of the year. 

For more information, click here.

Vermont Law School - Food and Agricultural Staff Attorney

South Royalton, VT
Description:

• The Environmental Advocacy Clinic at Vermont Law School (formerly known as the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Clinic) is hiring a Food and Agricultural Staff Attorney to work on litigation and legal advocacy matters related to our food and agricultural systems to ensure positive and sustainable outcomes that protect people, water and natural resources, and habitat.  The Environmental Advocacy Clinic offers students the chance to apply what they learn in the classroom by working in on real cases that have a positive impact on our world.  Vermont Law School has been one of the nation's top ranked environmental law schools for decades.  The position will work on ensuring large farm operations, such as CAFOS, are operated in a manner that accounts for pollution, protection of water and other natural resources, and public safety.  It will also focus on litigation aimed to advance and defend policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices that protect key natural resources and habitat areas.  An applicant should have an enthusiasm for working with law students who are eager to learn practice skills.
• The Environmental Advocacy Clinic is an in-house, law school clinic that operates as a public interest law firm, teaching students how to be lawyers by representing clients in need. In August of this year, the Clinic launched an exciting partnership with the National Wildlife Federation, one of the nation's largest and most influential conservation organizations, to represent the Federation on its national legal advocacy work.  The Clinic staff and students serve as the lead attorney representing the National Wildlife Federation, other leading conservation organizations, and local community groups to advance important environmental and natural resources issues.
• The Clinic has a mission to provide a high-quality, skills-based educational experience for law students who learn how to become competent, ethical attorneys with expertise in the field of environmental and natural resources law; to provide pro bono representation for individuals and organizations who could not otherwise afford legal services; and to ensure that laws protecting health, wildlife, and the environment are properly interpreted, implemented, and enforced to protect people and places for the benefit of this and future generations.  The clinic, while a distinct law firm, works in coordination on certain issues with Vermont Law School's broader initiatives on food and agriculture including the policy, academic, and scholar based Center for Agriculture and Food Systems.  This position will be critical in advancing that collaboration.
• The National Wildlife Federation has a robust program that is committed to ensuring that cropland, pastureland, or rangeland are managed sustainably to protect critical habitat for our nation's fish and wildlife, protect our water resources, and help mitigate climate change.  In addition to its collaborative work to encourage sustainable farming practices, National Wildlife Federation uses litigation and legal advocacy to ensure that key national policies such as the Farm Bill, protections for species and habitat, and the Clean Air Act's Renewable Fuel Standard are implemented and enforced in a manner that promotes sustainable farming practices and protects habitat.  This position will also play a role in forwarding many of those initiatives.

Duties:

• Develop litigation strategies to advance sustainable agricultural and food production practices that protect water and air quality, as well as wildlife habitat.
• Have primary responsibility for litigating complex cases under federal statutes such as the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Endangered Species Act, Farm Bill, National Environmental Policy Act, and other statutes applicable to the environmental regulation of agricultural and food systems.
• Supervise and teach student clinicians on cases and in a clinical learning environment.
• Work with a team of staff attorneys and clinical professors/instructors to develop and teach practical legal skills to student clinicians.
• Collaborate and work with technical experts as needed.
• Develop and manage positive relationships with co-counsel, clients, and partners.
• Help develop and execute media strategies for cases, including being a potential spokesperson for the clinic, clients, and partners.
• Be an active participant in a dynamic law school environment, including collaboration with other law school programs and occasional educational and other committee assignments and meetings.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctorate (JD) degree.
• 3-5 years or more of litigation experience.
• Admission, or willingness to apply for admission, to the Vermont bar.
• Knowledge of or experience with core environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act, NEPA, Endangered Species Act, with a knowledge of law or policy concerning agriculture and food systems preferred.
• Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Initiative, good judgment, and a solid work ethic.
• Ability to manage multiple litigation dockets, lead a litigation team, and manage partners, students, and co-counsel effectively without extensive supervision.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with diverse partners.
• Ability to supervise students.
• Clinical or teaching experience preferred.
• Good interpersonal skills and a sense of humor.

For more information, click here.

W.K. Kellogg Foundation - Program Officer for U.S. Southern Programs

Jackson, MS; New Orleans, LA

Description:

• The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF), a leading national philanthropy helping communities create the conditions children need to thrive, is seeking nominations and applications for a Program Officer for its U.S. Southern Programs, serving communities in Mississippi & New Orleans. In recent years the foundation has sharpened its focus on improving conditions for vulnerable children, concentrating on three key factors of success and their intersections: education and learning; food, health and well-being; and family economic security. WKKF partners closely with community stakeholders and policy makers to co-create a network of organizations working together to advance economic stability, racial equity, and community and civic engagement, while increasing access to quality education, healthy food, and medical care for children and families in need.
• Working in partnership across the two team offices for U.S. Southern Programs led by Director Rhea Williams-Bishop and with WKKF national staff, the Program Officer will provide leadership and oversight for on-the-ground execution of program efforts that nurture opportunities for achieving positive systemic change for better education, health, and economic outcomes for children and their families throughout Mississippi and in New Orleans. The Mississippi & New Orleans team works from base offices in Jackson and New Orleans and is a critical place-based team at the foundation for the region. Particular areas of interest for this role include economic development along the Gulf Coast; food systems, food access, and food entrepreneurship in rural and urban communities; and how these focus areas intersect with local industries (e.g., shipping, chemicals, energy, tourism, and seafood), environmental concerns, local entrepreneurship, and employment equity. 

Duties:

• The new Program Officer will leverage deep expertise in food systems and economic equity to screen and recommend grants for funding, conduct site visits, manage and monitor a portfolio of grant programs aligned with the foundation’s strategic framework, and collaborate within the programs team and across the foundation to develop a more interdisciplinary approach to grantmaking. The Program Officer will maintain strong, authentic relationships with grant seekers and grantees and act as a spokesperson for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, effectively communicating the foundation’s goal of partnering with communities to improve the well-being of children and their families.

Requirements:

• The ideal candidate will be committed to the values and mission of the foundation and have expertise and leadership experience in food systems, policy, and/or economic development. She/He/They will be knowledgeable about the intersections between food systems and food-based entrepreneurship, labor markets, and workforce development. The Program Officer will also have an understanding of and appreciation for the impact of the private sector and the role of the public sector in alleviating racial and economic disparities in urban and rural economies. Familiarity and experience with grantmaking is a plus, but is not required. She/He/They will have a deep and comprehensive understanding of program execution and development. The Program Officer will have both cultural fluency and networks in the Deep South, the Gulf Coast, the Delta region, and on the national level. The Program Officer will curate a portfolio that is reflective of, and responsive to, the needs of communities and grassroots leaders along the Gulf Coast, including Biloxi and New Orleans, and in rural areas in Mississippi and Louisiana as well. She/He/They will possess a strong team orientation, a high tolerance for ambiguity, the ability to adapt quickly to change, and a record of success in working effectively with persons from diverse cultural, social, and ethnic backgrounds.  

For more information, click here.

Land Stewardship Project - Executive Director

Minneapolis, MN

Description:

• We are seeking an experienced leader who is deeply committed to building power in rural areas, has a proven interest in environmental stewardship of the land, and has a dedication to economic justice and gender and racial equity. As the ongoing farm crisis is destroying rural communities and small- and mid-sized farms all over our country, we seek someone who can drive our bold five-year plan and our efforts to align our program areas and expertise in a way that expands what we’re doing well, but also addresses the serious challenges our members and communities face. 2 The current executive director is retiring after a number of years with the organization, three of them in his current role. He is planning to work with the next executive director to support the transition, and LSP’s board is committed to providing support, including executive coaching, if desired. Our search is being led by a transition committee of five board members, and supported by a search consultant. The executive director will lead the board, a staff of more than 30 working in three offices across the state, and a strong membership and donor base. The executive director will also serve as the director of the Land Stewardship Action Fund (LSAF), a 501(c)4 organization that was formed in 2018 to allow us to directly engage with political candidates and issues to advance our agenda. Please note that while we are posting the position seeking one executive director, the transition committee is open to considering applications from two or more individuals seeking to co-lead the organization. 

Duties:

• Organizational Vision and Board Engagement 
• Lead the strategic direction of the organization in coordination with the LSP (and LSAF) board, member-leaders, and staff. 
• Lead the implementation of LSP’s Vision for the Future, our 2019-2024 five-year plan, including the alignment, development, and innovation of our programs and resources. Combat the ongoing farm crisis through building grassroots people power in rural areas. 
• Staff Management and Development 
• Oversee the organization’s hiring, supervision, development, and retention of staff members, and the coordination, communication, management, support, and leadership development of said staff members. Directly supervise a leadership team, supporting them to direct and develop our outstanding staff. 
• Oversee internal systems around communications/social media, human resources, fundraising and financial operations, administration, reporting. 
• Lead the organization’s internal and external efforts to promote gender and racial equity. 
• Work with managers/directors and the staff as a whole to support the critical member and leadership development work happening on the ground, and to help staff prioritize their work effectively. 
• Fundraising and Budget 
• Lead the organization’s fundraising work. Work with staff who carry significant fundraising responsibilities to ensure dollars are raised, and that financial resources are utilized effectively, powerfully, and appropriately to advance our mission. 
• Develop new relationships with funders and major donors to LSP, and support and oversee the work of the staff who are currently maintaining such relationships. Support the work of building out our dues-paying membership. Leadership and Program 
• Ensure that LSP continues to be a leader in the Upper Midwest and on a national level in organizing for change on critical issues and building partnerships and alliances that reach across geography, race, gender, and political lines. 
• Work as part of our leadership team to advance initiatives that reflect our commitments to lifting up small farmers and combating factory farms, protecting our soil and water, and meaningfully impacting local and statewide policies. Advance our work on these issues alongside those of racial, economic, and gender equity in Greater Minnesota. 
• Drive the organization’s agenda and relationships with allies, and work to ensure they are aligned around building power for the organization, our members, and our allies.

Requirements:

• Candidates for the position should be able to: 
• Express and articulate their commitment to building long-term progressive power in rural communities. 
• Display how their leadership and management experience prepares them to drive and lead a team and organization, and how they would prioritize staff development. 
• Demonstrate their experience advancing racial and gender equity and economic justice.
•  Show a passion for grassroots and coalition organizing and developing member-leaders, and communicate the power and impact that a member-led people’s organization can have in empowering rural communities. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of the impact and importance of public policy and explain how policy can be shaped to better support family farms and environmental stewardship. 
• Demonstrate outstanding communications skills, including verbally, visually and in writing, across different types of media, commensurate with leading a broadbased organization. 
• Effectively ask people for money with skill and comfort. Demonstrate an ability to create long-term relationships with donors, funders, and partners. 
• Articulate their passion for healthy rural communities and working people, democracy, and stewardship of the land. 

Interested candidates should e-mail a resume, three references, and a cover letter that explains

why they want the job to James Haggar, consultant to the Land Stewardship Project, at

jobs@landstewardshipproject.org by December 23, 2019. Interested candidates may also direct

questions to James at that e-mail address. 

Johns Hopkins University - Senior Program Officer

College Park, MD

Description:

• The Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future (CLF) is based at the Bloomberg School of Public Health in the Department of Environmental Health & Engineering.  CLF is seeking a Senior Program Officer (SPO) to join its Food System Policy team and play a central role in developing, implementing and evaluating activities that engage the public health field in agriculture and food system policy at domestic and global levels. Working closely with, and supervised by CLF’s Program Director of Food System Policy, the SPO is directly involved in implementing a diverse set of projects and activities aiming to advance policies that protect public health and support a healthy, equitable, and sustainable food system. Areas of focus include industrial food animal production, food system externalities, food and agriculture policy regulation and legislation at all levels, and marketplace campaigns.

Duties:

• Work closely with the Food System Policy Program Director (PD) and liaise with CLF leadership to ensure the successful implementation of the Center’s policy activities;
• Serve as the PD’s deputy and as acting program director in the PD’s absence (and when assigned) in order to ensure the successful implementation of program activities;
• Provide effective leadership and program management skills in the implementation of program activities and in cultivating effective working relationships with colleagues;
• Supervise, coach, mentor, and oversee program staff and student research assistants as assigned/needed operating within compliance to all JHU supervisory policies;
• Perform ongoing assessment of the multiple levers of change (e.g regulatory environment, economic factors, marketplace developments and legislative initiatives at the state and federal level, etc.) tied to key food, agriculture, environment, and public health issues;
• Actively conduct surveillance and analysis of key food system policy issues, with a particular focus on those with direct implications f or public health;
• Lead policy-oriented outreach, organizing and engagement activities for CLF and develop a network of organizations and individuals focused on the public health/environment/food & agriculture nexus;
• Responsible for leading activity development/new initiatives or special projects and/or portfolios of work that arise and determined to be integral to the policy program and CLF;
• Collaborate with CLF colleagues to develop work plans for effectively promoting health/food agriculture issues within policy arenas and ensure synergy throughout CLF;
• Actively participate in CLF research projects as appropriate, including the design and implementation of relevant policy research, including the oversight of graduate research assistant activities;
• Serve as a technical resource for CLF education projects and activities, including in the review of materials, providing lectures, etc;
• Manage multiple projects initiated from within the Food System Policy Program;  and, work with CLF colleagues leading other projects with policy elements in order to achieve synergies of effort and strengthen capacity for center-wide  policy engagement;
• Actively communicate and collaborate with CLF leadership and staff, throughout the Center, and particularly with colleagues involved in policy, advocacy and communication activities;
• Work closely with CLF’s communications and public affairs teams to produce needed science translation materials and social media products;
• Lead grant-writing and proposal development efforts, as assigned, to support CLF’s food system policy initiatives;
• Lead the development and writing of policy papers; op-eds, fact sheets; blogs, and other communications materials as needed in support of program and CLF objectives;
• Play a lead role in organizing and convening policy-oriented meetings and events for CLF;
• Represent CLF (as assigned) in select arenas, and serve as liaison and collaborator with multiple organizations that complement CLF’s resources and expertise;
• Speak and present publicly at key events;
• Oversee and process CLF internal approval documents (i.e., Activity Brief Approvals, Travel requests, etc.) for the program to ensure adherence to CLF and JHU policy and procedures;
• Develop, produce, and/or edit high-quality project and program level reports, contracts with partnering organizations and/or suppliers, and grant proposals as needed basis.
• Oversee and monitor program, project and activity level budgets and spending for projects and activities within the Policy Program. 

Requirements:

• Masters’ degree (M.A., MHS, MPH) in public health policy or a related discipline required.
• Five (5) years of relevant work experience in policy and/or public health program management required.
• Significant experience working directly on food system policy projects. 
• Additional experience and/or training may substitute for some education.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Any campaign, political office, or agency experience should be expressed.

For more information, click here.

Johns Hopkins University - Educational Program Specialist

Baltimore, MD

Description:

• Based within the Bloomberg School of Public Health’s Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future (CLF) is seeking an Education Program Specialist (EPS) to advance CLF’s education program.  In line with JHU’s mission of providing education and academic training, CLF implements a dynamic portfolio of food system and public health education activities, including: online and in-person coursework and practice, a certificate program, an MPH concentration, the CLF-Lerner Doctoral Fellowship program, an online teaching curricula and resource, a series of professional networking opportunities, and the mentorship of students and professionals.
• The EPS serves as CLF’s principal ambassador and liaison with students, faculty, staff (including colleagues in administrative and academic offices throughout the School), and is a primary point of contact for prospective and current students interested in CLF education activities. The position is based at CLF’s offices, located at 111 Market Place, but requires regular time on site at the School’s Wolfe Street Building as needed for meetings and events.
• The EPS collaborates closely with project-based teams including offsite faculty and staff to facilitate the efficient and effective management of CLF’s education portfolio. A high priority for this position is to identify needed process refinements to strengthen and align CLF-led coursework, training and experiential learning opportunities to reflect CLFs broader educational goals.
• Essential to successfully fulfilling the roles and responsibilities of the position are strong communication, organizational, analytical, and project management skills.  The EPS is expected to thoroughly understand relevant institutional policies and procedures, public health curricular goals and standards across the School’s departments and degree programs, as well as the major responsibilities of other JHSPH and Departmental student services offices, including SOURCE, to inform CLFs education-related goals and strategies. 

Duties:

• Specific roles and responsibilities of the position may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Maintain clear understanding of University, School and departmental policies and procedures related to academic program requirements, recruitment and funding;
• Maintain frequent and transparent communication with CLF’s education, administration, and leadership teams, including offsite faculty and staff.
• Provide counsel to prospective and matriculated students regarding requirements, policies and procedures related to CLF’s certificate program, MPH concentration and doctoral fellowship program, in consultation with JHU administration, CLF faculty and staff as needed;
• Coordinate and participate in the application review and selection process of the CLF-Lerner Fellowship program, certificate program and other CLF-affiliated scholarships/funding opportunities for students
• Oversee the planning of student meetings, events and specialized training activities for CLF-affiliated students
• Track progress of CLF-affiliated students, lead efforts to assess and document impact of engagement activities with students, alumni and other key stakeholders to assist the program, students, and leadership with critical decision making
• Serve as CLFs liaison to SOURCE and facilitate the development of projects to fulfil capstone and practicum requirements for MPH and other masters’ students
• Identify opportunities to strengthen synergies among education program components, e.g. courses, experiential learning opportunities and trainings, the Food System Lab urban teaching farm and CLF’s online teaching resources.
• Represent CLF and participate in School-wide and departmental recruitment events including open houses and new student orientation activities.
• Lead efforts to strengthen and leverage CLF student alumni networks
• Independently respond to an array of inquiries and requests from JHSPH faculty, staff, students, external agencies, and community partners for CLF education program information
• Serve as the education representative within various CLF teams and coordinate action in pursuit of CLF education program goals and objectives, outreach opportunities, including national meetings such as APHA
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external business, academic and leadership offices.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree;
• Three (3) years progressively responsible experience in program administration in an academic environment; 
• Evening and weekend work is required occasionally.
• Additional education may substitute for some experience, and some additional experience may substitute for some education, to the extent permitted by the JHU Equivalency Formula: 30 undergraduate degree credits (semester hours) or 18 graduate degree credits may substitute for one year of experience. Additional related experience may substitute for the required education on the same basis.  For jobs where equivalency is permitted, up to two years of non-related college course work may be applied towards the total minimum education/experience required for the respective job.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Master’s degree in public health or related field preferred. Two to three years of relevant experience in higher education program management and/or food systems-related work required.

For more information, click here.

Faegre Baker Daniels, LLP - Food Regulatory Associate

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• The global law firm of Faegre Baker Daniels LLP is actively recruiting an Associate to join the firm's Food Regulatory practice in our Washington, D.C. office.  This position offers the opportunity to provide regulatory counsel to food industry clients on issues relating to food labeling, marketing and advertising in addition to other areas regulated by the FDA (e.g., dietary supplements, cosmetics and low risk medical devices). 
• Faegre Baker Daniels is an AmLaw 100 firm with offices located throughout the U.S., plus offices in Asia and the UK. The firm’s Food Litigation and Regulatory practice is nationally ranked by Chambers USA and this position offers competitive compensation and unlimited potential for professional growth. If you are looking for an opportunity with a growing, collaborative firm, please apply online here and include a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a writing sample.

Requirements:

• Our ideal candidate will have 2-6 years of food law and labeling experience at a law firm, food company or regulatory agency. Excellent writing skills, attention to detail, and strong academic credentials are required. We are also looking for someone with the ability to work well both independently and collaboratively as part of a cross-office team.

For more information, click here.

Food and Ag Law Contract Attorney

Remote

Description:

•  Looking for an attorney who can research issues and provide advice for a client in the meat distribution industry, which is regulated by the USDA and Packers and Stockyard Act. This is a one time project and experience in the following practice areas is recommended: 
• Agricultural Law 
• Commercial Litigation 
• Packaging & Processing 
• Supplier Agreements 
• Transportation Contracts

Requirements: 

• Provide advice and counsel regarding a wide range of laws and regulations related to farming and agriculture, including, but not limited to, farming subsidies, feeding regulations, pesticide restrictions, livestock and poultry production regulations, aquaculture regulations, forestry, land use, building and construction regulations, farming equipment regulations, irrigation restrictions, and regulation of toxic, hazardous, and flammable substances.
• Draft and present risk assessments, analyzing company's products, activities, or operations in light of relevant regulations.
• Provide proactive and collaborative regulatory law support for a wide range of business units.
• Manage matters initiated by or pertaining to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

For more information, click here.

New Mexico Legal Aid - Staff Attorney

Las Cruces, NM

Description:

• NMLAs Centro Legal Campesino provides free civil legal aid to agricultural workers throughout the state -- predominantly in the south and southeast. NMLA case priorities include wage theft, employment discrimination and harassment, workplace health and safety violations, civil rights abuses, and immigration relief for survivors of violence and human trafficking.

Duties:

• Multi-faceted advocacy to support project initiatives (Wage Justice Agricultural Guest Workers, Workplace Health & Safety, Labor Trafficking)
• Outreach in rural areas and at farmworker community centers across New Mexico and at the El Paso/Juarez border
• Case development and litigation in federal and state courts for claims under the Agricultural Worker Protection Act and federal and state wage laws
• Advice, counsel, and representation as appropriate for farmworkers before administrative agencies for wage theft and health and safety violations
• Advice, counsel, and representation as appropriate for farmworkers in poverty law practice areas (public benefits, unemployment insurance, housing, and consumer)
• Development of community legal education materials and conduct Know Your Rights presentations and participatory workshops
• Work in strategic partnerships, including co-counseling relationships, with other legal services and advocacy organizations
• Development and strengthening relationships with community agencies
• Participation in state-wide, regional, and national coalitions and taskforces

Qualifications:

• Fluency (or high proficiency) in Spanish and English
• Ability to work effectively as part of team
• Collaborative work ethic
• Passion and energy to confront systemic injustices faced by farmworker communities
• Experience working with marginalized individuals and populations, especially immigrants
• Commitment to a client-centered approach to advocacy and working on challenging issues in a compassionate and sensitive manner
• Willingness and ability to do evening and weekend work, especially in harvest season, and to travel throughout New Mexico and to the El Paso/Juarez border region.

For more information, click here.

Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research - Communications and Legislative Affairs Officer

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR), a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization established by bipartisan Congressional support in the 2014 Farm Bill and refunded in the 2018 Farm Bill, builds public-private partnerships to support pioneering and actionable science addressing today's food and agriculture challenges. FFAR increases scientific research and partnerships critical to enhancing the sustainable production of nutritious food for a growing global population.
• FFAR seeks a Communications and Legislative Affairs Officer to join this growing department during an exciting time in the organization’s history. The Communications and Legislative Affairs Officer works across departments to elevate the FFAR brand by envisioning and executing new ways of publicizing Foundation’s accomplishments to a variety of audiences.
• Reporting to the Director of Communications and Legislative Affairs, the Officer plays a key role in building and strengthening relationships with reporters, and representatives of organizations in the food and agriculture community, including commodity groups, research organizations, universities, scientific societies, government officials, associations and others. The Officer position is primarily focused on communication with opportunities to engage with Members of Congress and their staff. 
• The Communications and Legislative Affairs department is responsible for educating Congress about FFAR’s accomplishments as well as communicating funding opportunities, awarded grants and results to the Foundation’s stakeholders. The Officer serves as a point of contact for FFAR interviews and gathers multimedia to convey impact of FFAR grants. 
• The Officer will lead projects independently in some cases and support the Director in others.

Duties:

• Communications and Public Relations 
• Collaborate with Director on communication and outreach strategies
• Pitch stories to the media
• Staff executive interviews with some internal and external support
• Draft press releases, media alerts, advisories, briefing materials, talking points, speeches and other media materials for staff, executives and board members as needed
• Distributing media announcements through multiple systems
• Manage multi-stakeholder engagement in coordinating FFAR announcements
• Create and execute a digital media strategy including social media, email communications and website content
• Manage relationships with design, media tracking and web design firms including management of marketing materials development
• Create, plan and execute stakeholder engagement events (virtual and in-person briefings)
• Legislative Affairs and Stakeholder Relations
• Assist in proactively educating Members of Congress and their staff on FFAR-funded projects and impact in their districts
• Liaise with Senate and House Agriculture Committee staff as needed
• Work with Director to plan and execute events including Congressional staff briefings, research presentations and receptions
• Create and execute a digital media strategy to inform Congressional members and Staff about FFAR’s work

Requirements:

•  Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public policy or related degree
• Four-six years of professional experience in a communication role
• Exceptional writing and presentation skills
• Superior Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Experience with WordPress or other website CMS software
• Digital media experience.
• Graphic design experience
• Self-motivated, creative problem solver
• Exceptional organization skills with ability to prioritize under multiple deadlines
• Enthusiasm for/interest in improving the food system through scientific innovation

The position is open for immediate hire. Applicants should email both a resume and thoughtful

cover letter describing your specific qualifications and interest in the position to

communications@foundationfar.org by December 13, 2019 using the subject line:

COMMUNICATIONS AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS OFFICER. Incomplete applications will

not be considered. Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted. No phone

calls please.

Crossroads Community Food Network - Executive Director

Tacoma Park, MD

Description:

• Crossroads Community Food Network, a food access nonprofit based in Takoma Park, MD, is seeking an Executive Director to lead and grow a small but dynamic and innovative organization. Crossroads works to bolster the local food system through programs that support and unite those who grow, make, and eat fresh, healthy food.
• The ideal candidate will be able both to think broadly and strategically and also be detail oriented and organized. Experience with food systems work and success as a nonprofit fundraiser is required. The full-time position is based in Takoma Park, MD, and the annual salary is $72,800. Benefits include paid vacation, medical leave, parental leave, and holidays, as well as employer-sponsored health insurance (eligible upon hiring) and retirement benefits (eligible after one year of employment).
• People of color and women are encouraged to apply.

Duties:

• Leadership:
• Direct the implementation of Crossroads’ mission, programs, and services
• Build relationships with community partners and relevant stakeholders for strong, effective delivery of programs and services to target populations
• Foster a positive, collaborative, organizational culture encouraging transparency, communication, and professional development
•  Collaborate with the Deputy Director to ensure Crossroads’ continued success and growth
• Engage and empower staff to develop and carry out a range of program/operational activities
• Provide guidance on food access, economic development, and agriculture policy and advocacy
• Work collaboratively with Crossroads’ Board of Directors in the development of the strategic plan
• Recruit new board members; recruit and manage Advisory Council members
• Serve as an effective and inspiring spokesperson for Crossroads
• Financial Planning and Management/Operations:
• Assume primary responsibility for the organization’s income, including developing a comprehensive development strategy; grant writing and reporting; managing relationships with government agencies, foundations, corporations, and community organizations; cultivating and soliciting individual donations; and identifying new and diverse revenue sources
• Develop overall annual budget; administer funds in accordance with the approved budget
• Monitor the organization’s cash flow, and provide regular financial reports to the Board of Directors
• Track expenses and restricted grant budgets, prepare financial reports
• Supervise part-time bookkeeper who handles day-to-day accounting tasks, ensuring sound accounting procedures and financial records are maintained
• Serve as primary decision-maker on core operations activities, ensuring the organization complies with all laws, regulations, and standards regarding nonprofit status, employment, and insurance
• Direct the hiring, training, retention, and performance evaluations of staff
• Programming:
•  Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Crossroads’ programs
• Ensure programs, projects, and communications reflect Crossroads’ strategic plan, priorities, and core values

Requirements:

• 5+ years of executive leadership experience with community-based nonprofit organization(s) that have multiple programs and funding streams
•  Experience with partnership development, financial management, food systems work, and advocacy
• Ability to think strategically, multitask, prioritize activities, and manage staff
• Excellent writing, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers market farmers, vendors, and shoppers; community members; funders; government representatives; community and business leaders; the media
•  A proven track record of winning grants from public (federal and local) and private grantors, experience with fundraising/grants management; experience with USDA grants a plus
•  Working knowledge of G Suite, Quickbooks, Microsoft Excel, and CiviCRM (or a similar contact management database)
•  Familiarity or community connections within the Takoma/Langley Crossroads community is desired but not required
•  Proficiency in Spanish preferred but not required

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and three references in PDF format to jobs@crossroadscommunityfoodnetwork.org by November 29, 2019.  The position starts in early January, 2020.

National Resources Defense Counsel - Climate Change and Worker Health Science Fellow

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• Work is a central element in the lives of most adults, but relatively little is known about the occupational health implications of climate change. NRDC is seeking a two-year, full-time Climate Change and Worker Health Science Fellow who can provide subject matter expertise and conduct multi-disciplinary research and analysis on the occupational health effects of climate change. As part of the Federal Policy team of NRDC’s Climate and Clean Energy Program, the Fellow also will develop broadly accessible communication materials about occupational health and climate change to support NRDC’s community partnerships, public outreach, and advocacy on climate and clean energy policies (including climate adaptation).
• Specific topics and projects undertaken by the Fellow will depend on their expertise and NRDC’s programmatic priorities. Some examples of potential projects include:
• Investigating the health implications of severe drought on outdoor occupations such as construction, agricultural, or recreation workers;
• Identifying indoor and outdoor worker populations most vulnerable to wildfire smoke;
• Quantifying the risk of occupational injuries or workplace accidents associated with prolonged work in preparation for, or response to, wildfires, hurricanes, or other extreme events;
• Assessing how the occupational health threats of climate change interact with other socioeconomic stressors and disparities;
• Quantifying health care costs imposed on indoor and outdoor workers by climate-related hazards; and
• Modeling how adaptation measures like an occupational heat safety standard might reduce health harms and related costs, or limit broader economic costs.

Duties:

• Working with the Climate and Clean Energy program, the Science Center, and other NRDC staff to identify, understand, and communicate the health threats of climate change to indoor and outdoor workers.
• Accessing, reviewing, and analyzing relevant literature, datasets, and analytical and screening tools from federal, state, and local sources to advance scientific understanding of the occupational health implications of climate change, inform and guide NRDC advocacy, and support outreach and engagement with decision-makers, labor groups, and other organizations and communities.
• Developing relationships with subject matter experts and labor representatives to aid with identification of climate-related occupational health threats, data collection and analysis, and public outreach and engagement.
• Drafting reports and peer-reviewed publications outlining methods, findings, and recommendations based upon occupational health analyses conducted at NRDC.
• Developing and reviewing legislative and regulatory proposals to protect workers from the health effects of climate change.
• Responding to inquiries about the health implications of climate change on workers from NRDC program, policy, communications, and legal staff; colleague organizations; labor and health partners; and the media.

Requirements:

• The following qualifications are required:
• A doctoral degree in sociology, occupational psychology, occupational safety, or a related field, and familiarity with a range of health impacts of climate change and associated literature. A candidate with a Master’s degree and relevant academic and/or work experience may also be considered.
• Familiarity with occupational health databases and their analytical uses and drawbacks.
• Excellent quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated success working with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience communicating with non-technical audiences.
• The following qualifications are desired:
• Expertise in interpreting and analyzing economic data.
• Experience working with labor and/or community-based groups.
• Experience with environmental policy analysis or advocacy.
• Familiarity with the intersection between occupational health and disparities associated with race, ethnicity, gender, and/or socioeconomic status.
• Media training and/or experience giving media interviews.

For more information, click here.

Congressional Research Service - Healthcare Financing Analyst

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• The Congressional Research Service (CRS) Office of Domestic Social Policy Division (DSP) is seeking an Analyst in Health Care Financing for its Health Insurance and Financing (HIF) Section, a unit that covers Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, and private health insurance.

Duties:

• We expect this analyst to work on HIF’s Medicaid team, which covers all aspects of the program including eligibility, benefits, service delivery, and financing.
• CRS analysts work in a dynamic environment providing real-time support to Congress across all phases of the legislative process including preparing written analysis and providing information through consultations, formal briefings, and other meetings. The work often requires rapid response to emerging policy issues during the legislative process.
• DSP’s Health Insurance and Financing Section covers Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, and private health insurance. We expect this analyst to work on the section’s Medicaid team, which covers all aspects of the program including eligibility, benefits, service delivery, and financing. Applicants should have experience conducting analysis of issues related to one or more areas covered by the section (Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, and/or private health insurance). While all candidates with substantive knowledge in any of these areas are encouraged to apply, the ideal candidate will have substantive knowledge of the Medicaid program—including relevant legislation and regulation—and experience researching Medicaid policy issues.
• Strong research, writing, and presentation skills and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team and to be responsive under time pressure are essential for success in this position. Experience with quantitative research is desirable, but not required.
• Analyst duties include:
• Preparing objective, non-partisan analytical studies, descriptive background reports, memoranda, and other written materials on public policy issues of national significance that are within the employee's area of professional knowledge.
• Providing personal consultation to congressional committees, Members, and staff on public policy issues throughout the legislative process by providing information and analysis orally and in writing, and applying professional subject-area knowledge.
• Participating in CRS seminars, workshops, and/or outreach programs for committees, Members, and staff.
• Participating in or leading team research projects and seminars.
• Locating and providing information requested by Members and committees of Congress or their staff.
• The employee is also expected to develop over time the skills necessary to provide public policy and legislative analysis and consultation to congressional committees, Members, and staff at increasingly sophisticated levels. Given the breadth of Medicaid policy that DSP covers for Congress, analysts must be capable of working on a range of issues in a portfolio that will likely evolve over time.
• CRS works exclusively for the United States Congress, providing policy and legal analysis to committees and Members of both the House and Senate, regardless of party affiliation. As a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress, CRS has been a valued and respected resource on Capitol Hill for over a century.
• CRS is well known for analysis that is authoritative, confidential, objective, and nonpartisan. Its highest priority is to ensure that Congress has immediate access to the nation’s best thinking on public policy issues of interest to its Members and committees.

Requirements:

• Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
• Knowledge of Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, and/or private health insurance.
• Ability to analyze public policy issues.
• Ability to write in a public policy context.
• Ability to convey analysis and information orally through briefings, consultations and other presentations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Ability to exercise objectivity in all phases of analysis and consultation.
• Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.

For more information, click here.

Plant Based Foods Association - Policy Analyst

Description:

• The Plant Based Foods Association represents over 160 company members including many of the nation’s leading brands. Our mission is to build a solid foundation for the plant-based foods industry to succeed and thrive.
• We are seeking a talented, outgoing, experienced policy analyst, who can build on our early momentum and support our growing community of passionate business leaders. You will help advance our state policy agenda, with a focus on agriculture, in coordination with PBFA’s state-level lobbyist and reporting to the executive director. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to help grow this young industry.

Duties: 

• Research and maintain data to identify top agricultural ingredients in PBFA members’ foods
• Develop and maintain robust tools to map locations of PBFA members and ingredient supply chain
• Research potential agricultural policy levers to support input ingredients
• Develop relationships with key contacts in states to advance agricultural opportunities
• Develop relationships with PBFA ingredient supply members and non-members
• Assist with mobilizing members and non-members to support our state-level policy agenda.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, law, agriculture policy; graduate degree preferred
• At least three years of experience in legislative advocacy or similar policy experience
• Extensive knowledge of food and agricultural policy issues, especially at the state level
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with multiple stakeholders and in across political spectrum
• Exceptional writing and oral presentation skills, superior ability to communicate policy concepts
• Experience with mapping tools, or demonstrated ability to manage complex mapping projects
• Self-motivated, creative problem solver with ability to prioritize under multiple deadlines
• Passion for promoting plant-based foods.
•  Must be able and willing to work remotely. 
• Some travel required, may be extensive at times depending on activity.

For more information, click here.

Feeding America - General Counsel

Chicago, IL

Description:

• We are a national, nonprofit organization and the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, our mission is to feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger.
• The Chief of Staff and General Counsel will be responsible for working closely with the CEO to set strategic priorities and effectively manage the CEO’s time ensuring highest and best use in service of Feeding America’s mission and ensuring the efficient operation of the executive office. The Chief of Staff and General Counsel will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of board development and governance. This role will also be responsible for directing Feeding America’s legal affairs. The Chief of Staff & General Council will serve as a member of the Executive Team.

Duties:

• Chief of Staff
• Work with the CEO and other leaders to set strategic priorities for the CEO’s time and identify areas where the CEO should direct their focus. Working with the administrative support team, strategically manage the CEO’s calendar building long-term meeting and plans, assessing their fit against priorities.
• Ensure the CEOs' involvement in project or decision-making processes takes place at key times, where their input and authority are most needed. Coordinate access to the CEO with key internal and external stakeholders maintaining positive relationships and ensuring stakeholders feel valued and heard.
• Communicate directly, and on behalf of the CEO, with Board members, donors, Foundation staff, and others on matters related to the Office of the CEO. Attend key meetings and special events with the CEO, both on and off-site and represent the CEO at key meetings and events when required.
• Prepare the CEO for upcoming meetings by ensuring they have all the information necessary to be productive and engaged. Capture takeaways from meetings, identify key themes and implications for the CEO’s consideration. Ensure follow-up with relevant stakeholders as needed.
• Work directly with the CEO to plan, coordinate and conduct meetings of the Executive Team. Work with the Chief Human Resources Officer to plan, coordinate and conduct meetings of the Senior Management Group. Communicate with participants, ensuring objectives and agenda items are published in advance, materials needed to support key decisions are shared, and follow-up items are completed in a timely fashion.
• Conduct outreach to other national organizations and organize convenings on behalf of the CEO. Make high-level contacts of a complex and confidential nature both inside and outside the organization.
• Research, explore and develop new opportunities as requested by the CEO. Synthesize data, draft proposals, write reports and respond to requests for information, including answering complex inquiries requiring detailed knowledge of organizational strategies, policies and priorities.
• Board Governance
• Direct the development of a plan for the board and its respective committees for each fiscal year, including focus areas and key decisions that will guide the design of each board engagement throughout the year and oversee the implementation of that plan.
• Direct the development of board agendas for quarterly board meetings with an emphasis on generative discussion and clear board actions. Ensure the EVP & COO, CFO and CHRO are engaged to incorporate the priorities and progress of various board committees into the design of board agendas.
• Work with the CEO to develop agendas for monthly call between board chair and CEO ensuring the supporting materials are available.
• Oversee the design and execution of strategic retreats to help the board reassess vision and mission, evaluate and establish outcomes, understand and help shape key strategies.
• General Counsel
• Serve as the top legal officer for the organization providing legal advice and counsel, engaging external counsel as needed for support.
• Direct the development and implementation of policies and procedures that ensure organizational compliance with best practices related to trademark registration and protection, third-party contractual arrangements and other legal matters.
• Oversee Feeding America’s supplier diversity program.

Requirements:

• BA/BS and a JD degree or relevant experience
• Significant experience working in complex administrative roles (chief of staff or similar role) working directly for a CEO or other C-Suite leader
• Foundational Competencies
• Mission Focused - Embodies Feeding America’s mission to end hunger and brings the mission to life through words and actions. Sets organizational vision and strategy keeping people facing hunger at the center. Makes organizational and strategic decisions focused broadly on what is best for our shared mission.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Demonstrates a commitment to an organization that values different backgrounds and life experiences through word and action. Builds culture and process to ensure that everyone can bring their authentic self to work and feels welcome and valued. Builds equity into vision, strategy and operating goals focused on our employees and the communities we serve. Builds equity into structure, systems and processes for our employees and the communities we serve. Committed to continuous personal EDI development and shares personal journey openly with others to support organization and individual growth.

For more information, click here.

American Farmland Trust - Mid-Atlantic Regional Director

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. 
• Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.5 million acres of farmland and ranchland, and reduced development pressure on over 300 million additional acres. We have championed environmentally sound farming practices that are used on farms of all sizes across the nation and we've had a positive impact on over 500,000 farmers and ranchers.
• The Mid-Atlantic Regional Director (Director) position offers an exciting opportunity to help shape and carry out the strategic agenda of a growing, forward-looking conservation organization. The Director will provide strategic leadership for American Farmland Trust’s programs in the Mid-Atlantic Region, with an emphasis on Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
• The Director will report to the Vice President for Programs and have the option of working in AFT’s National Office in Washington, DC or at a home office in the region.  The Director will initially be responsible for managing two staff and a network of consultants and a budget of approximately $550,000 with substantial opportunities for growth in the future.

Duties:

• Primary responsibilities for the Mid-Atlantic Director will include:
• Programs
• Develop and lead programs to advance AFT’s mission to save the land that sustains us by protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land.  Of significance will be playing a leadership role in AFT’s programs focused on improving water quality in the Chesapeake Bay while sustaining agricultural viability. 
• Work closely with the Vice President for Programs and National Initiative Leaders to adapt and integrate AFT’s national initiatives with opportunities in the Mid-Atlantic Region. 
• Build and manage relationships with external stakeholders including agriculture, food and public health, environment, economic development and other constituencies.
• Experience working with diverse communities of farmers, landowners and other stakeholders is preferred.
• Fundraising
• Play a leadership role in fundraising for AFT across the Mid-Atlantic Region.
• Coordinate with AFT’s development staff regarding individual and institutional fundraising strategy, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Develop funding proposals and reports and completion of other activities within identified deadlines.
• Communications
• Work with AFT’s Communications staff to develop and implement strategies to raise the visibility of the organization’s programs in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
• Management and Administration
• Develop annual workplans and budgets for the Mid-Atlantic Region.
• Achieve goals identified in the Mid-Atlantic Regional Workplan and staff individual development plans. 
• Supervise and support a diverse team of AFT staff and consultants.
• Manage project budgets, financial statements and reports.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• The Director must be outgoing and energetic and have direct professional experience working with primary constituencies, such as farmers, landowners, public officials, agricultural and conservation organizations and land trusts.  The individual must have knowledge of agricultural stewardship and viability, farmland protection, and/or farmland access and farm transfer techniques, preferably in the Mid-Atlantic Region.  It is also strongly preferred that the Director have direct experience working with diverse communities of farmers and landowners such as farmers of color, beginning farmers and women landowners. 
• The Director must be entrepreneurial, self-motivated, and willing to work in a fast-paced work environment. The successful candidate will have work experience in developing programs as well as creating and executing effective fundraising strategies. Excellent communication skills (public presentation, phone, writing, partner relations) and creativity are essential. Facility with the Microsoft Office is required – additional computer skills preferred.
• A BA or BS degree and a minimum of 7 years of related work experience in public policy, planning, agriculture, land conservation or natural resource planning. Or, 5 years of related work experience with an advanced degree in one or more of the disciplines noted.
• Understanding of effective fundraising with individual and institutional funding partners.
• Previous experience with supervising staff and consultants, including from remote locations, is beneficial.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating projects and budgets.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to work independently and travel across the Mid-Atlantic Region. 

For more information, click here.

National Ag Law Center - Staff Attorney Positions in Fayetteville, Arkansas

The National Agricultural Law Center, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas is seeking two new staff attorneys, with work focusing on Finance & Credit and on Food Law.

Finance & Credit Position:

The Staff Attorney will assist with research and writing activities that further the national mission of the National Agricultural Law Center, with a primary emphasis on agricultural finance and credit issues impacting the agricultural and food sectors. This includes relevant aspects of the Uniform Commercial Code (i.e., Article 9 and Article 2), agricultural liens (including statutory trusts under Packers and Stockyards Act and the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act), and bankruptcy/debt management. Staff Attorney will report to Senior Staff Attorneys and, as needed, oversee work of one or more Center Research Fellows. Staff Attorney must have demonstrated excellent legal research and writing skills, and have the ability to work independently as well as closely with Center staff, as needed. This is a 2-year position contingent upon continued funding and performance.

https://jobs.uark.edu/postings/37684

Food Safety and Labeling Position:

The Staff Attorney will assist with research and writing activities that further the national mission of the National Agricultural Law Center, with an emphasis on food safety and labeling issues impacting the agricultural and food sectors. Staff Attorney will report to Senior Staff Attorneys and, as needed, oversee work with one or more Center Research Fellows. Staff Attorney must have demonstrated excellent legal research and writing skills, and have the ability to work independently as well as closely with Center staff, as needed. This is a 2-year position contingent upon continued funding and performance.

https://jobs.uark.edu/postings/37683

New Mexico Legal Aid - Agricultural Worker Program Staff Attorney

Description:

• NMLAs Centro Legal Campesino provides free civil legal aid to agricultural workers throughout the state -- predominantly in the south and southeast. NMLA case priorities include wage theft, employment discrimination and harassment, workplace health and safety violations, civil rights abuses, and immigration relief for survivors of violence and human trafficking.

Duties:

• The Staff Attorney will provide effective legal services to enforce agricultural workers rights. Advocacy tasks include:
• Multi-faceted advocacy to support project initiatives (Wage Justice Agricultural Guest Workers, Workplace Health & Safety, Labor Trafficking)
• Outreach in rural areas and at farmworker community centers across New Mexico and at the El Paso/Juarez border
• Case development and litigation in federal and state courts for claims under the Agricultural Worker Protection Act and federal and state wage laws
• Advice, counsel, and representation as appropriate for farmworkers before administrative agencies for wage theft and health and safety violations
• Advice, counsel, and representation as appropriate for farmworkers in poverty law practice areas (public benefits, unemployment insurance, housing, and consumer)
• Development of community legal education materials and conduct Know Your Rights presentations and participatory workshops
• Work in strategic partnerships, including co-counseling relationships, with other legal services and advocacy organizations
• Development and strengthening relationships with community agencies
• Participation in state-wide, regional, and national coalitions and taskforces

Requirements: 

• Fluency (or high proficiency) in Spanish and English
• Ability to work effectively as part of team
• Collaborative work ethic
• Passion and energy to confront systemic injustices faced by farmworker communities
• Experience working with marginalized individuals and populations, especially immigrants
• Commitment to a client-centered approach to advocacy and working on challenging issues in a compassionate and sensitive manner
• Willingness and ability to do evening and weekend work, especially in harvest season, and to travel throughout New Mexico and to the El Paso/Juarez border region.

For more information, click here.

National Farmer's Union - Government Relations Director

Description:

• The Government Relations (GR) Director’s primary focus is to supervise and lead the GR team, lobby members of Congress, congressional staff and appropriate federal agencies. The GR Director will provide background research, draft policy documents and correspondence, and disseminate information to Congress, the administration and National Farmers Union members. This individual will represent National Farmers Union with outside organizations, coalitions, and the media.

Duties:

• Supervise and lead the GR team on policy matters 
• Lobby members of Congress, congressional staff and federal agencies. Assist with developing and enhancing relationships with members
• Coordinate the development and implementation of a comprehensive policy strategy
• Create, lead and help execute strategic plans on issue campaigns, including direction of advocacy and relationship with legislators and federal agencies
• Represent National Farmers Union (NFU) at coalition meetings and coordinate joint efforts with outside organizations
• Draft correspondence to the administration, federal agencies and Congress on requested issues
• Provide issues updates via memo to NFU leadership and conduct research for background facts, history and data. Develop charts and graphs for use in testimonies, comments, press and talking points
• Research and prepare written testimony for congressional hearings and comments on federal rule making process
• Provide timely and substantive background materials for NFU communication needs. Work with the team to articulate NFU policy positions in a clear and compelling manner.
• Create background materials and draft outlines in conjunction with the Communications Department for all NFU presentations
• Represent NFU with the media on requested issues
• Communicate with the board of directors on policy issues
• Assist with the coordination and management of NFU events that impact policy advocacy which includes the Policy Committee, Fly-In and NFU Convention

Requirements:

• Strong knowledge and understanding of agricultural policy and practices
• Working knowledge of federal policy-making process
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and effective listing skills
• Superior interpersonal and relationship building skills. Demonstrated ability to work well in a team environment and interact effectively with all levels across the organization
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement comprehensive strategies
• Exceptional planning, organizing and prioritization skills, and follow-up skills
• Outstanding attention to detail, knowledge retention and ability to recall large amounts of detailed information
• Professional presentation and demeanor. Ability to positively and professionally represent the organization at events and with the media
• Ability to be flexible, shift priorities and adapt quickly to changes
• Demonstrated ability to successfully manage projects and assignments with competing priorities, deadlines and demands
• Sound judgement and decision-making skills. Ability to assess a situation, gather information and apply logic and critical thinking skills to evaluate risks and determine an appropriate course of action
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to understand when to escalate matters to the next level and/or seek guidance
• Strong leadership abilities, and ability to learn and acquire new concepts and/or skills quickly
• Ability to travel to domestically, as needed
• Bachelor’s degree required. Additional education is a plus
• Relevant legislative experience and/or experience working with federal agencies’
• Prior experience developing and implementing short-term and long-term strategies

To apply,  please submit a cover letter and resume to employment@nfudc.org by November 15, 2019. Please add “Government Relations Director” in the subject line of the email.

American Farmland Trust - New York Policy Associate

Saratoga Springs, NY

Description:

• American Farmland Trust is a national organization dedicated to saving the land that sustains us by protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land.  Since our founding, AFT has helped protect more than 6 million acres of farmland and led the way for the adoption of conservation practices on millions more.  AFT’s New York State office was established in 1990 as the state is home to some of the most threatened farmland in the nation.
• The New York Policy Associate position offers an exciting opportunity to help carry out the policy agenda of a growing, forward-looking agricultural conservation organization. The Policy Associate will work closely with the New York Policy Manager, the AFT Policy team, consultants and external partners to advocate for policies and programs that save the land that sustains us, including:
• Permanently protecting farmland in New York;
• Supporting a new generation of farmers in finding land and getting started in farming in New York;
• Building the ability for public institutions, like K-12 schools, to increase their purchasing of NY grown, fresh and minimally processed food;
• Accelerating siting of renewable energy to support farm businesses while protecting productive farmland; and
• Helping farmers mitigate and adapt to climate change.
• The Policy Associate will support broader efforts to develop and grow these programs. They will have the opportunity to work across teams within AFT’s New York Office, as well as with external partners including farmers, landowners, agricultural professionals, and institutional leaders.   

Duties:

• The New York Policy Associate’s duties and responsibilities will include:
• Attending and participating in advocacy meetings including handling scheduling; assisting with preparation of materials, agenda, and presentations; notetaking during meetings; and supporting follow-up communications;
• Coordinating event logistics for advocacy days, such as scheduling meetings, reserving event space, coordinating catering;
• Organizing signatures from partner organizations for letters of support for key policies and programs;
• Drafting emails and event invitations to key state leaders and lawmakers;
• Assisting with policy research among a growing portfolio, including farm to institution, farmland protection, farmland access, renewable energy siting, and soil health initiatives that help farmers combat climate change;
• Helping to coordinate programs for a diversity of stakeholders across multiple formats, such as webinars, networking events, and educational workshops;
• Responding to email and phone inquiries from farmers, landowners, organizations, and the public;
• Assisting with coordinating internal meetings and communications to ensure timely completion of program activities;
• Helping to build farmer engagement with advancing AFT’s policy agenda by phone or email and attending conferences with the Policy Manager;
• Assisting with content development and delivery for social media campaigns, virtual lobby days, regular email updates, and other digital communications; and
• Supporting the development and drafting of stories of farmers and others that are engaged in AFT’s programs.

Requirements:

• The New York Policy Associate must be outgoing and energetic, organized, a good researcher, and capable of working well independently as well as part of a team. 
• The Policy Associate will need to be comfortable regularly interacting with a diverse audience - including elected officials and their staff; state leaders; farmers; organizations in the agricultural, environmental, school, public health, and renewable energy sectors; and others.  Additional qualifications include:
• Work experience equivalent or degree in political science, policy, agriculture, environment, natural resource planning, food systems or related fields;
• Excellent research skills and ability to summarize difficult concepts succinctly;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks, stay organized and ability to work independently;
• Facility with Microsoft Office is required;
• Additional computer skills, including experience with web design, Salsa, social media or GIS are preferred;
• Familiarity with State and/or Local policy making process; and
• Willingness to undertake limited work travel by car. 

For more information, click here.