Toxics Campaign Director - The Public Interest Network : Job Details

Department: Program

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Multiple Locations

Compensation: $36,000 - $45,000 / year

There are more than 80,000 chemicals on the market in the United States, most of them put directly into use without testing the long-term consequences for our health or their impact on our environment. And, too often chemicals are found to be toxic and still remain on the market.

PIRG is working to protect our health by making polluters pay for the toxic messes they create, and eliminating the use of toxic chemicals that threaten our health and our communities.

The Toxics Campaign Director will coordinate and work with our federal staff and state offices across the country to run campaigns that call on our decision makers to lead us toward a toxic-free future by passing federal and statewide bans on some of the most toxic chemicals; educating the public and decision-makers about the health and environmental hazards of these chemicals; promoting safer alternatives; and convincing corporations to eliminate the production or use of toxics in their products. This position requires exercising discretion and independent judgment in making decisions in matters of significance. Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Coalition building: Build support for our campaign goals from key constituencies at the campus, state and national level.
• Advocacy: Take our policies directly to key decision-makers in state legislatures, Governors' offices, in Congress, in corporate boardrooms, and other forums where we could advocate for a toxic-free future. Run multiple lobby days for students and staff.
• Media Outreach: Serve as the spokesperson for our campaigns through media events, press releases and opinion writing. Keep abreast of important toxics issues and raise the profile of toxics issues and our campaign goals in the media.
• Campaign strategy: Assess opportunities for building political support for our agenda through coalition-building, grassroots organizing, media coverage and message development.
• Program development: Evaluate new research on the issue, create viable policy solutions and propose the right political strategy and messaging.
• Fundraising: Write grant proposals, build relationships with foundation staff and meet with major donors.
• Staff recruitment and development: Build our team by recruiting and managing interns and participating in staff recruitment efforts. Potential to oversee staff.

Candidates must have at least 3 years of relevant professional experience. Qualified candidates will have a demonstrated commitment to citizen-based social change, as well as a track record of leadership. Experience working on toxics, environmental or public health campaigns preferred.

We're looking for people who are goal-driven and results-oriented, who have excellent public speaking, writing and analytical skills, the ability to speak persuasively in a charged atmosphere, and the passion and drive it takes to make positive policy changes.

Compensation and Benefits: The target starting compensation for someone with 3-8 years of relevant professional experience is $36,000-$45,000 in the first year. Candidates on the lower end of directly relevant experience should expect to be on the lower end of this range; candidates on the higher end of relevant experience are likely to be on the higher end of this range. PIRG offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, paid time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.

Locations: This position could be based in Chicago, IL; Boston, MA; or Denver, CO.

Why work with PIRG? Check out 10 reasons:

Our Mission and Values: PIRG is part of The Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit for things you should know about our network when you apply.

PIRG is an equal opportunity employer.

COVID-19: We take COVID-19 safety very seriously. Employees must follow our COVID safety protocols and be fully vaccinated and boosted. Accommodations are provided to the extent required by law.