Forests Associate

Environment America is seeking a Forests Associate in Chicago, IL, to lead the Save Our Global Forests Campaign. This full-time, entry-level role involves environmental advocacy, policy work, and grassroots organizing to combat deforestation. Responsibilities include building coalitions, lobbying, and managing campaigns. A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required. The position offers a salary of $37,000 – $39,275 and includes benefits like medical coverage and paid time off.
Position Overview

Salary/Compensation: $37,000 – $39,275 annually, based on location
Hours per Week: Full-time
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
Experience Required: Entry-level; training provided

Environment America is hiring an Associate to lead its Save Our Global Forests Campaign, fighting to protect critical ecosystems such as the Amazon and North American boreal forests. This role blends environmental advocacy, policy work, public engagement, and grassroots organizing to reduce U.S. contributions to global deforestation.

Description

The Save Our Global Forests Associate will lead campaigns aimed at stopping companies from sourcing materials from primary forests and supporting legislation like the FOREST Act. The associate will build public support, mobilize grassroots pressure, and drive forward advocacy efforts through coalition building, media outreach, and lobbying. This dynamic, mission-driven position is ideal for candidates passionate about environmental policy and eager to make a global impact.

Responsibilities
• Build coalitions with advocacy groups and affected communities
• Organize press events, write op-eds, and grow the campaign’s social media presence
• Lobby elected officials and corporate leaders to adopt forest-protective policies
• Support legislation at state and federal levels to combat deforestation
• Conduct research and publish campaign reports to inform public discourse
• Recruit and manage volunteers, interns, and new staff
• Run a grassroots fundraising and organizing office during the summer

Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent training
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Passion for environmental issues and advocacy work
• Ability to work independently, manage projects, and take initiative
• Willingness to relocate for campaign work during summer sessions
• Full COVID-19 vaccination and booster (with legal accommodations available)

Preferred Qualifications
• Leadership experience in student or community organizing
• Public speaking, social media, or journalism experience
• Understanding of environmental policy or corporate responsibility issues

Additional Notes
• Offers include medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off; 401(k) with match; parental leave; and student loan assistance
• Training provided in organizing, media, policy, and leadership development
• Part of The Public Interest Network, focused on evidence-based progressive change
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to hiring and program values