Director of environmental law

The University of Iowa is seeking a Director for the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative (HELI) in Iowa City. This term position involves organizing programs, managing budgets, hiring faculty, and engaging in environmental law research. Responsibilities include overseeing initiatives, collaborating with other departments, and supporting community networks. A JD degree and relevant experience in environmental law are required. The position may continue with additional funding.
The HELI Director will work closely with College leadership, faculty, and the HELI Program Director on the areas of responsibilities, duties, and tasks listed below. This is a term status position with funding for 7 years. There is the possibility of continuation if additional funding can be identified. For more information, see https://law.uiowa.edu/news/2022/01/introducing-hubbell-environmental-law-initiative.

Please Note: The College of Law intends to hire for one position at either the Program Manager, or Program Director classification, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please indicate in your cover letter the position you wish to be considered for or indicate both.

Key Areas Of Responsibilities And Specific Job Tasks
• Work with the HELI Program Director to organize and implement HELI programs, including workshops, conferences and webinars. This includes conducting research related to current topics of interest, reaching out to individuals with expertise on these topics, and moderating some events;
• Oversee the HELI’s budget with various initiatives.
• Coordinate the search for and hiring of adjunct and visiting faculty to support academic mission and goals;
• Other Initiative efforts, as needed
• Implement joint initiatives with other University of Iowa departments and schools;
• Work with the Program Director and environmental law faculty to identify priorities for HELI-supported research, outreach, and programming.
• Engage in environmental law research and activities relevant to Iowa and the Midwest region, including writing policy papers, op-eds and other publications and supervising the work of HELI research assistants and fellows; 
• Write blog posts and other short pieces for the HELI website;
• Work with the Program Director on the HELI website and social media presence;
• Support and grow the HELI’s campus and community networks.
• Engage with the local and regional environmental bars;
• Engage with Iowa Law alumni;
• Work with HELI partners on campus and in the community to oversee HELI-sponsored projects and collaborations.
• Direct program activities so University of Iowa policies, procedures, practices and programs are in compliance with federal, state and local legal/regulatory standards;
• Maintain advanced knowledge of University and departmental policies and procedures to ensure fiscally responsible use of funding
• Maintain knowledge of University and departmental policies and procedures related to Human Resources.
• Direct program activities to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Supervise the Program Director, managing performance and development.
• Develop and implement practices that support staff engagement in the workplace.
• Coach the annual student environmental moot court team.
• Hire and supervise student research assistants.

To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact joshua-gulick@uiowa.edu

Education Required
• JD degree or the equivalent

Experience Required
• Typically, 3 years of experience for PAD2, or 5 years for a PAD3, in the field of environmental, energy, and natural resources law and policy;
• Excellent research, analytic, writing, and communication skills;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
• Excellent organizational skills, including evidence of strong prioritization skills, accuracy, and attention to detail;
• Ability to effectively interact with a variety of individuals and groups in a professional, welcoming, and respectful manner.

Desirable Qualifications
• 1-2 years experience in law practice or policy-related work in addition to required experience;
• Prior experience supervising professional staff.
• Iowa bar membership or ability to waive in.

Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:
• Resume
• Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Josh Gulick at joshua-gulick@uiowa.edu.

You must indicate in your cover letter the level of classification (Program Manager or Program Director) you wish to be considered for or indicate both. See required qualifications for additional information. 

Benefits Highlights

Regular salaried position. Pay Level 6A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.

Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.

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Additional Information
• Classification Title: Program Director
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation
• Pay Level: 6A

Contact Information
• Organization: College of Law
• Contact Name: Joshua M Gulick
• Contact Email: joshua-gulick@uiowa.edu