Environmental Policy Manager

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Company seeks an Environmental Policy Manager in Somerville, MA, to lead and support various environmental policies and programs. Responsibilities include researching, implementing, and advising on climate action, waste management, and community engagement. The role requires a bachelor's degree and 5-7 years of relevant experience. As of May 2023, in-office presence is required for employees when necessary.
The City of Somerville is one of the leading cities on climate change in Massachusetts and the country, pioneering new approaches to climate action planning, clean energy and resilience programs, and community engagement. The Environmental Policy Manager will research, develop, support, implement, maintain, track, and advise the City on a broad range of environmental policies, programs, projects, and regulations. The Environmental Policy Manager is required to perform all similar or related duties.
Job Duties /Responsibilities

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
• Topics requiring leadership and/or support of the Environmental Policy Manager include but are not limited to: resiliency (extreme heat, precipitation, air quality, etc.), (hazardous) waste, zero waste policy, recycling, air quality (indoor and outdoor), natural resources (biodiversity, green space, shade, watershed), and emergency management efforts, as well as food and environmental justice, consumption and emissions reduction, and behavioral changes.
• Research, closely track, and analyze topics of strategic importance, including but not limited to innovative ideas and best practices, and translate findings into easily understandable and actionable insights.
• Conduct risk assessments and advise the Director. Draft public comments and remarks and deliver as needed. Follow regulatory and legislative happenings at all levels of government and amongst peers and neighbors. Develop and maintain relationships with partners.
• Identify stakeholders and those impacted by a policy, advise and implement engagement strategies, convene internal and external stakeholders to create and influence effective, equitable, and values-driven policies.
• Develop short- and long-term policies, programs, projects, presentations, materials, memoranda, briefs, and analysis in collaboration with, and for, a wide range of audiences.
• Execute contracts and oversee work of consultants and staff implementing environmental policies, programs, and projects.
• Track and analyze data and performance. Evaluate and make improvements as needed.
Recommended

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in a related field (environmental policy, planning, or science or a related field etc.) and five to seven years’ experience in municipal government, state agency positions or relevant private consulting roles; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

An advanced degree can substitute for 1-2 years of experience.

Special Requirements: As of May 2023, OSE employees are required to be in the office and in the field when their work requires them to be. This guidance is subject to change.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skill:

Knowledge: Strong understanding of both established and emerging environmental trends, technologies, programs, and policies. Strong familiarity with applicable state, federal and regional environmental proceedings, regulations, and guidelines. Knowledge of municipal and state policy and project development processes from visioning and scoping. Experience with program management including program design, implementation, evaluation, and tracking. An understanding of climate change and a demonstrated interest in and knowledge of the intersections between climate change, environmental justice, food justice, social and environmental health, and related movements.

Demonstrated interest in conservation, animal welfare, and minimizing/mitigating the impacts of American consumerism. Demonstrated experience working with public officials, researchers, and community members to advance policy change.

Ability: Demonstrates sensitivity, tact, and sound professionalism judgment. Ability to obtain interdepartmental cooperation and communication, handle problems…