Applying for a Position

Cover letters may be addressed to “Search Committee.” Please include your salary range expectations. You will only be contacted if we desire an interview. Postings will be taken down once position is filled. Please, no phone calls. Applicants who are not U.S. citizens must be able to provide an employment authorization document from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Equal Opportunity

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive.  We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking candidates who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package geared towards a productive work/life balance. Our benefits include:

  • excellent health care and dental coverage
  • ample vacation, holiday, and sick time
  • competitive retirement plans with generous employer contribution
  • and a lot more

Click here for a full list of benefits >

 

Our Culture

People are at the heart of the Union of Concerned Scientists. We value our staff and our mission of science-based action for the public good. We hire people who are smart and determined to make a difference.  We are rewarded by knowing that our analysis and advocacy contributes to a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.

With our shared goals and vision of a safer and better world, we hail from all walks of life and speak many languages, reflecting the diverse audiences that we serve. We strive to maintain an open culture where everyone contributes and feels comfortable sharing ideas and opinions.  We support our staff with equitable and transparent salaries, training, sit/stand desks, world class benefits, and a culture that emphasizes work/life balance. UCS is a place where you can bring your whole self to work—a place where diversity is valued, supported and welcomed. 

We're Hiring!

Cambridge, MA

Accountant II

Finance and Administration Department
Cambridge, MA

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit working to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis, effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for addressing global warming, advancing sustainable food and agriculture policy, promoting clean energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

Come join our finance team! Seeking an enthusiastic, self-starting, reliable team-oriented accountant to help our team support UCS, a national non-profit which puts rigorous science to work to build a healthier planet and a safer world.

You will be responsible for the oversite and technical elements of the organization’s $38MM budget, overseeing the lobby reporting and assisting in the monthly financial close and annual audit.

Responsibilities

  • Responsible for oversite and technical elements of the organization’s budget, including: creating the personnel budget, reviewing the annual and mid-year budgets, ensuring restricted funding is appropriately represented, and that all budget items are coded accurately.
  • Tracks all budget changes throughout the year.
  • Submit the Quarterly Federal Lobbying Reports filing and the filings for the states where Lobbying Disclosure is required.
  • Working with an external vendor, ensure all appropriate records are maintained and reports filed.
  • Resolve any issues regarding lobby reporting.
  • Assist in organization’s monthly financial close process and fiscal year-end audit process, as needed.
  • Cross trained and serve as backup in all functions in finance

Qualifications and Experience

Three to five years of comparable experience in a finance is required. Solid experience in budgeting required. Accounting, finance, or business degree preferred. Advanced knowledge in Microsoft Excel is required.

May spend extended periods at computer terminal. Some travel may be required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Cambridge, MA office. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around 52,500 annualized. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Accountant” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 27, 2018, or until filled.

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Research Intern

12-week summer internship
Development Department
Cambridge, MA

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for addressing global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war. UCS’s Development Department raises the majority of the organization’s operational budget from individuals and private foundations.

Do you have an affinity for research and a knack for uncovering hard-to-find information? UCS’s Foundations Team seeks an organized, meticulous researcher to help drive forward its new prospecting initiative. As the Research Intern, you will undertake research needed to expand, qualify, and cultivate a pool of funding prospects to support UCS’s growing programs.

Responsibilities

  • Utilizing subscription-based research tools and public search engines to build organization profiles.
  • Researching donor capacity and addresses for individual prospects.
  • Mapping relationships between organizations and UCS contacts to establish point of entry.
  • Assisting the Associate with data input and maintenance of the prospecting spreadsheet.
  • Compiling weekly reports of prospects’ progress toward solicitation.
  • Other research projects supporting the team’s goals as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Ability to work with high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently for extended periods of time and persistence in researching hard-to-find information.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • A working knowledge of Microsoft Office (especially Word, Excel).
  • Familiarity with and comfort navigating online databases and research tools.
  • Experience working in an office setting is preferred.

Spends extended periods at computer monitor and keyboard.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours, and Location: This is a full-time, 12-week internship based in UCS’s Cambridge, MA office. Looking for someone to start around mid to late June. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is the equivalent of $16.50 per hour, $34,320 per year annualized, this is a non-benefit position. UCS offers an excellent and rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and how you learned about the position via email to internship@ucsusa.org and include “Research Intern” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 14, 2018, or until filled.

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Senior Vehicle Analyst-Advocate

Clean Vehicles Program
Washington, DC or Cambridge MA Office (Oakland, CA a possibility)

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, advancing sustainable food and agriculture policy, promoting clean energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

Join UCS’s efforts to cut oil use and global warming pollution from transportation while building a better, safer more equitable transportation system. Use your modeling and analytical skills to evaluate sources of transportation emissions and the efficacy of strategies to reduce pollution and oil use. Then, put your analysis to work, collaborating with a crack team of advocates, media and outreach experts to bring your analytical findings from the world of models to the real world. This position will challenge you in many ways, requiring skillful analysis, persuasive writing for a variety of audiences, public speaking, and many other skills you have or will acquire.

Responsibilities

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure and Electricity Grid Integration Research and Policy Analysis
    • In collaboration with our teams, carry out research and analysis aimed at understanding EV infrastructure needs and potential benefits of vehicle electrification to improving grid reliability or integrating higher levels of renewable electricity.
    • Develop and evaluate policies and strategies to accelerate electric vehicle infrastructure deployment and effective grid integration of EVs.
  • Communications
    • Inform the public, policymakers, business leaders and the media about the latest policy-relevant findings on transportation electrification infrastructure issues.
    • Write web content, magazine articles, and Op Eds for newspapers.
    • Act as spokesperson for UCS on EV infrastructure issues and prepare responses for media requests; write and review blogs for UCS blog, The Equation.
  • Advocacy
    • Help UCS advocate for smart policies with decision-makers at the state and sometimes federal level.
    • Engage in Public Utility Commission proceedings to support transportation electrification efforts.
    • Advance campaigns for accelerating EV deployment through effective infrastructure investment and utility policies.
    • Work to advance vehicle electrification and infrastructure policies that improve transportation equity and increase access to clean vehicles.
  • Materials
    • Prepare compelling written materials in a variety of formats ranging from short fact-sheets to longer reports, testimony, and peer-reviewed journal articles.
  • Expert Engagement
    • Build and maintain working relationships with other experts in academia, government, NGOs, and industry.

Qualifications and Experience

The position requires strong quantitative and analytical skills with a preference for candidates with expertise in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and grid-related impacts, sophisticated understanding and knowledge of electricity sector policy and public utility commission regulatory processes, and demonstrated experience with energy analysis and advocacy. General knowledge of transportation, energy, and climate policy is also required.

Work requires a minimum of 5-7 years of successful relevant and comparable experience. Candidates with Master’s degree preferred, including a background in research and analysis. A prerequisite for this position is proven advocacy and communication skills, experience developing analysis to inform policy, and demonstrated technical analysis skills.

The position also requires knowledge of effective issue campaign development, understanding of the policy process, including advocacy techniques and legislative strategy. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with technical experts and other professionals as well as with policymakers and the public is strongly preferred. Media experience a plus. A master’s degree in a relevant area (science, engineering, economics, public policy) is preferred. Training or experience in supervision and project management is also desirable. Proficiency in word processing and computer spreadsheets is required, and experience with energy and transportation models is strongly desired. Knowledge of electricity markets is also desirable.

Little or no exertion; may require extended periods at a computer; may require extended periods at a computer. Periodic travel (about 10% of the time) to events, conferences, speaking engagements, and other UCS offices will be required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position with a preference for the position to be based in UCS’s Washington, DC or Cambridge, MA office. Our Oakland, CA office may also be possible depending on the candidate. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is between $65,000 and $75.000, (annualized) depending on experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, salary requirements, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Senior Vehicles Analyst-Advocate” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 6, 2018, or until filled.

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Outreach Coordinator

Climate and Energy Program
Cambridge, MA

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

As Outreach Coordinator, you’ll advance UCS’s Power Ahead Campaign. Using the strength of UCS’s energy economics and analytic expertise and supporter base, you will help move states and regions to reduce emissions, expand renewable energy and clean energy storage capacity, and hasten the transition away from fossil energy.

Responsibilities

  • Create and implement outreach plans and projects to advance state, regional, and federal legislative and regulatory advocacy goals.
  • Cultivate and engage UCS supporters and experts through online and offline actions. Facilitate strategic and timely responses to emerging campaign opportunities.
  • Identify key arenas for UCS campaign visibility. Identify and raise the profile of communities taking action, with special attention to the environmental justice dimensions of the clean energy transition.
  • Plan and run events—including UCS receptions, media and other trainings, convenings on energy topics, and webinars and briefings.
  • Represent UCS in state, regional and national coalitions and help develop coalition strategy and outreach.
  • Help develop state and regional media strategies to bolster outreach efforts.
  • Keep good working knowledge of clean energy and grid modernization technology and policy, and effective strategies for influencing campaign targets, including electricity regulators and state legislators.
  • Supervise interns, and/or outreach consultants.

Qualifications and experience

Three to five years of comparable and relevant experience in organizing and advocacy is required. Demonstrated ability and experience developing campaign strategy and tactics, organizing expert and influential constituents, coordinating events, and engaging supporters through online and offline activities is required. Ability to engage competently and equitably with a diverse range of allies and potential allies in civil rights, environmental justice, clean energy policy is required. Familiarity or experience in climate change and energy is strongly preferred. Strong project management experience and written and communication skills are essential. Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus.

May spend extended periods at computer terminal. Extensive travel (10 or more overnights per year) is required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Cambridge, MA office. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $52,500. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, 1-2 short (e.g. 1-2 pages) advocacy oriented writing samples, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Power Ahead Outreach Coordinator” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please. Deadline: May 6, 2018 or until filled.

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Kendall Fellowship: Protecting Carbon in Boreal Forests

Union of Concerned Scientists
Cambridge, MA Office

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), the leading science-based organization at the center of today’s most exciting and important policy debates, seeks outstanding candidates for a new Kendall Science Fellowship. This two-year fellowship is open to candidates who will have completed their PhD degree before September 2018. The fellow will conduct a two-year research project that brings new science to bear on how Alaska wildfire mitigation can help to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the US by mid-century. Research findings will fill critical data and knowledge gaps, serve as the basis for engaging key stakeholders at the state and federal levels, and build demand for strategies that address and limit the climate disruption of Alaska’s vast forest carbon stocks. UCS is partnering with the Woods Hole Research Center (WHRC) in this project, and there will be extensive opportunities for engagement with WHRC researchers and their scientific partners.

The Union of Concerned Scientists is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

Responsibilities

Through research that may include literature review and data collection, spatially-explicit modeling of the costs associated with boreal forest fire management, cost-benefit analysis of fire management for carbon mitigation compared to other mitigation efforts, and assessment of fire management potential in Alaska, the Kendall Fellow will undertake a two-year project to:

  • Quantify the extent of the threat posed by emissions release from forest fires in Alaska in the context of the US meeting its 2025 and 2050 greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals;
  • Evaluate whether, and to what degree, public investments in reducing the risk and severity of Alaska wildfires can be a cost-effective approach to minimizing the emissions from existing forest carbon stocks;
  • Integrate information on current and projected impact of fire regimes on Alaska’s carbon balance and the economics, strategies, and policy framework of fire management in the context of other potential climate mitigation options for the US.
  • Communicate research results with the media, policymakers, and the public.

Qualifications and experience

The successful applicant will possess significant knowledge of climate change, forest carbon cycles, and modeling. The fellow should be able to demonstrate research experience that can be applied to the stated goals of the fellowship, either specifically on boreal forests & wildfires, or in a related field of study. In addition, strong written and verbal communications skills are required. Knowledge of, or experience in, boreal forest systems and their management and/or fire mitigation economics and policy would be highly valued.

A PhD is required. At a minimum, a PhD in a relevant field must be completed before September 1, 2018. Expertise and advanced degrees in climate or atmospheric science, carbon cycle dynamics, forest economics or forest ecology are preferred.

The Fellow is likely to spend a significant portion (20-45%) of their time located at the offices of our project partner, WHRC, in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Travel for meetings & workshops with partners and research colleagues is expected (including, potentially, in Alaska), and some travel for education/outreach/advocacy efforts is probable.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

About the Kendall Science Fellows Program

The Kendall Science Fellows Program was established to honor Nobel Prize-winning physicist Henry Kendall who was with UCS from our beginnings and was the long-time chair of our board. Kendall was known for his unique ability to shake up the status quo and catalyze new thinking, and UCS looks to Kendall Fellows to do the same. Kendall Fellows work on innovative and forward-looking policy-relevant research. Fellows benefit from the opportunity to learn from the UCS approach to science and policy, and UCS benefits from the new approaches and expertise of the Kendall Fellows. More information on the Kendall Science Fellows Program is available at https://www.ucsusa.org/about/kendall-science-fellows.html#.WpSdaGrwbDc

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time, two-year position based in UCS’s Cambridge, Massachusetts office. The Fellow is expected to spend 20-45% of their time working from the offices of our project partner, The Woods Hole Research Center, in Falmouth, Massachusetts. The fellowship will begin October 2018. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about UCS is available at http://www.ucsusa.org

To Apply: Please email a short application, including a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that describes your interest & qualifications for this project, curriculum vitae, and two references to jobs@ucsusa.org including “Boreal Forest Kendall Fellowship” in the subject line. Send materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please. Deadline to apply: April 18, 2018.

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Senior Vehicle Analyst-Advocate

Clean Vehicles Program
Washington, DC or Cambridge MA Office (Oakland, CA a possibility)

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, advancing sustainable food and agriculture policy, promoting clean energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

Join UCS’s efforts to cut oil use and global warming pollution from transportation while building a better, safer more equitable transportation system. Use your modeling and analytical skills to evaluate sources of transportation emissions and the efficacy of strategies to reduce pollution and oil use. Then, put your analysis to work, collaborating with a crack team of advocates, media and outreach experts to bring your analytical findings from the world of models to the real world. This position will challenge you in many ways, requiring skillful analysis, persuasive writing for a variety of audiences, public speaking, and many other skills you have or will acquire.

Responsibilities

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure and Electricity Grid Integration Research and Policy Analysis
    • In collaboration with our teams, carry out research and analysis aimed at understanding EV infrastructure needs and potential benefits of vehicle electrification to improving grid reliability or integrating higher levels of renewable electricity.
    • Develop and evaluate policies and strategies to accelerate electric vehicle infrastructure deployment and effective grid integration of EVs.
  • Communications
    • Inform the public, policymakers, business leaders and the media about the latest policy-relevant findings on transportation electrification infrastructure issues.
    • Write web content, magazine articles, and Op Eds for newspapers.
    • Act as spokesperson for UCS on EV infrastructure issues and prepare responses for media requests; write and review blogs for UCS blog, The Equation.
  • Advocacy
    • Help UCS advocate for smart policies with decision-makers at the state and sometimes federal level.
    • Engage in Public Utility Commission proceedings to support transportation electrification efforts.
    • Advance campaigns for accelerating EV deployment through effective infrastructure investment and utility policies.
    • Work to advance vehicle electrification and infrastructure policies that improve transportation equity and increase access to clean vehicles.
  • Materials
    • Prepare compelling written materials in a variety of formats ranging from short fact-sheets to longer reports, testimony, and peer-reviewed journal articles.
  • Expert Engagement
    • Build and maintain working relationships with other experts in academia, government, NGOs, and industry.

Qualifications and Experience

The position requires strong quantitative and analytical skills with a preference for candidates with expertise in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and grid-related impacts, sophisticated understanding and knowledge of electricity sector policy and public utility commission regulatory processes, and demonstrated experience with energy analysis and advocacy. General knowledge of transportation, energy, and climate policy is also required.

Work requires a minimum of 5-7 years of successful relevant and comparable experience. Candidates with Master’s degree preferred, including a background in research and analysis. A prerequisite for this position is proven advocacy and communication skills, experience developing analysis to inform policy, and demonstrated technical analysis skills.

The position also requires knowledge of effective issue campaign development, understanding of the policy process, including advocacy techniques and legislative strategy. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with technical experts and other professionals as well as with policymakers and the public is strongly preferred. Media experience a plus. A master’s degree in a relevant area (science, engineering, economics, public policy) is preferred. Training or experience in supervision and project management is also desirable. Proficiency in word processing and computer spreadsheets is required, and experience with energy and transportation models is strongly desired. Knowledge of electricity markets is also desirable.

Little or no exertion; may require extended periods at a computer; may require extended periods at a computer. Periodic travel (about 10% of the time) to events, conferences, speaking engagements, and other UCS offices will be required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position with a preference for the position to be based in UCS’s Washington, DC or Cambridge, MA office. Our Oakland, CA office may also be possible depending on the candidate. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is between $65,000 and $75.000, (annualized) depending on experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, salary requirements, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Senior Vehicles Analyst-Advocate” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 6, 2018, or until filled.

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Washington, DC Positions

 

Washington Representative

Climate and Energy Program
Climate & Energy Program
Washington, DC Office

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

You’re a talented Washington Representative with a strategic mind and excellent communication skills who wants to help shape federal policy on climate and energy, specifically as it relates to clean energy infrastructure, finance, electricity markets and RD&D. You’ll advocate with authorizers, appropriators and executive branch agencies, work in coalition with other non-governmental organizations and stakeholders, and help us transform the national energy landscape.

Responsibilities

  • Working with the Director of Government Affairs, help develop and implement campaign strategy for national energy policy, focusing on education and outreach to policymakers and DC stakeholders.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with congressional representatives, committees, and their staff, as well as administration and agency officials.
  • Provide UCS input into legislation and regulatory policy. Monitor and assist bill and regulatory progress. Working with UCS scientists and analyists, help write and edit materials for use on the Hill.
  • Work in coalition with trade associations, consumer organizations, the broader science and environmental community, and business, labor, faith and health stakeholders.
  • Manage rapid response requests in collaboration with UCS experts and program staff
  • Help respond to press inquiries on selected climate and energy issues, and maintain effective working relationships with press representatives who cover Congress on relevant issues.
  • Help train UCS experts and activists to do effective constituent meetings.
  • Maintain working knowledge of clean energy and climate policy issues and legislation including energy tax credits, renewables mandates, grid modernization and energy storage, and DOE appropriations. Awareness of other emissions reductions policies is helpful.

Qualifications and experience

This position requires 5 to 7 years of full time legislative or advocacy experience at the federal or state level. Proven advocacy and communication skills and experience working either in Congress or for NGOs working to influence governmental decision-making.

Position requires knowledge of the legislative process, legislative strategy, as well as familiarity with relevant Congressional committees. Good working knowledge of the Executive branch and relevant agencies like DOE is also important, as is a good working knowledge of the federal appropriations process.

Understanding of effective issue campaign development, advocacy techniques and strategy is essential.

Background and policy expertise in clean energy and climate change is strongly preferred, as are skills in public speaking and written communication.

A bachelor’s degree is required, with advanced degree in related field desirable. Training or experience in supervision and project management is also desirable.

Proficiency in word processing and database software is required. Success and experience with social media strongly preferred.

May spend extended periods at computer with a sit-to-stand desk. Seven to ten nights overnight travel per year is required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Washington, DC office. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $58,500. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org

To Apply: Please email a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org with “C&E Washington Rep” in the subject line. Materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please. Deadline: May 13, 2018 or until filled.

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Program Assistant

Clean Vehicles Program
Union of Concerned Scientists
Washington, DC Office

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit working to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis, effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for addressing global warming, advancing sustainable food and agriculture policy, promoting clean energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

The Clean Vehicles (CV) Program at UCS works to cut oil use and global warming pollution from transportation while building a cleaner more equitable transportation system. We are a multi-disciplinary, ambitious, and creative team using science to inform solutions to growing transportation challenges. The Program Assistant is the program’s backbone, providing administrative and logistical support to promote the effectiveness of the entire team.

Responsibilities

  • Provide program administration support by developing CV presence on SharePoint365 and serve as point of contact with IT consultant, and other technical challenges.
  • Organize and archive CV reports, letters, press clips, and other products. Collaborate with other DC office staff around meeting room scheduling and coordination. Greet visitors; provide meeting support including ordering and setup of catering and refreshments.
  • Ensure timely payment of consultants and contract set up and management, reimbursements, and purchase records.
  • Maintain staff calendar and oversee timetracking reports.
  • Provide new staff with orientation to administrative procedures.
  • Maintain sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
  • Keep track of CV activities and accomplishments Keep up-to-date on program work to be able to quickly shift priorities based on program needs.
  • Support hiring processes as warranted by helping diversify candidate pools by working with HR to disseminate job announcements.
  • Coordinate annual planning retreat and process. Work with Director and Deputy Director to coordinate fiscal year planning documents, budget, and staff time budget.
  • Support the development and execution of CV events.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is preferred.
  • Position requires considerable self-motivation and familiarity with office and administrative support procedures, competence in word processing and spreadsheet software including Microsoft Word and Excel, Microsoft Outlook email and scheduling software, database use and maintenance, and web research skills.
  • Strong organizational abilities and good written and oral communication skills are needed.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills are essential.
  • A successful program assistant will have strong administrative skills, a proven ability to pay attention to details, the capacity to work on multiple projects at one time, the ability to work independently as well as part of a team, and to interact professionally.
  • Two years of comparable experience as a program, administrative, or research assistant is required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

You may spend extended periods at computer terminal, but you will have extensive contact with your colleagues. Limited overnight travel of less than five days per year may be required.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we are dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Washington, DC office. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $38,500 annualized. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter referencing how you learned about the position and why you want to work for us, along with resume, salary requirements, and two non-academic writing samples via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “CV Program Assistant” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 7, 2018, or until filled.

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Research Assistant

6 Month Temporary Position
Center for Science and Democracy
Washington, DC

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for addressing global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

The Center for Science and Democracy (CSD) at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is dedicated to advancing the essential role of science, evidence-based knowledge, and constructive debate in the U.S. policymaking process, using three core strategies: restoring public confidence in, and support for, the use of independent science in public policy making; helping decision makers, citizens and journalists distinguish evidence-based information from propaganda; and working with scientists to help them engage in effective communication with the public, media and decision makers.

The Research Assistant will carry out research on a variety of science policy topics. Focusing on how science is used in policy making, they will help develop analyses and reports that advance the role of science in the democratic process. Work will include tracking and helping with responses to attacks on science in federal policy ranging from Congressional attempts to undermine science to Trump administration policy decisions that fail to adequately consider science.

Responsibilities

The research assistant will be responsible for assisting in research tasks including scoping, writing, analyzing, and developing public-facing materials based on their research. Most tasks will be computer-focused; however, the research assistant will participate in frequent group meetings, be part of idea-brainstorming sessions, and will have opportunities to present and discuss their research with the CSD team and other UCS staff.

Qualifications and Experience

The position requires 2 to 4 years of comparable experience demonstrating strong analytical skills. Candidates should be able to demonstrate strong research skills. An understanding of environmental policy is desirable, though not required. Robust written and oral communications abilities, considerable self-motivation, and solid organizational skills are necessary for this position. Applicants should be able to demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively both through written and oral capacities. Candidate should have the ability to work independently, a strong attention to detail, and interest in exploring diverse topics in the science policy realm. Candidates should have an interest in how science informs decision making and/or working in the public/nonprofit sector.

May spend extended periods at computer terminal. This position does not require travel.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time, 6-month temporary position based in UCS’s Washington, DC office. Looking for someone to start around May. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $41,800 annualized. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Science and Democracy Research Assistant” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: March 18, 2018 or until filled.

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Chicago, IL

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Oakland, CA Positions

 

Senior Vehicle Analyst-Advocate

Clean Vehicles Program
Washington, DC or Cambridge MA Office (Oakland, CA a possibility)

The Position

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, advancing sustainable food and agriculture policy, promoting clean energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

Join UCS’s efforts to cut oil use and global warming pollution from transportation while building a better, safer more equitable transportation system. Use your modeling and analytical skills to evaluate sources of transportation emissions and the efficacy of strategies to reduce pollution and oil use. Then, put your analysis to work, collaborating with a crack team of advocates, media and outreach experts to bring your analytical findings from the world of models to the real world. This position will challenge you in many ways, requiring skillful analysis, persuasive writing for a variety of audiences, public speaking, and many other skills you have or will acquire.

Responsibilities

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure and Electricity Grid Integration Research and Policy Analysis
    • In collaboration with our teams, carry out research and analysis aimed at understanding EV infrastructure needs and potential benefits of vehicle electrification to improving grid reliability or integrating higher levels of renewable electricity.
    • Develop and evaluate policies and strategies to accelerate electric vehicle infrastructure deployment and effective grid integration of EVs.
  • Communications
    • Inform the public, policymakers, business leaders and the media about the latest policy-relevant findings on transportation electrification infrastructure issues.
    • Write web content, magazine articles, and Op Eds for newspapers.
    • Act as spokesperson for UCS on EV infrastructure issues and prepare responses for media requests; write and review blogs for UCS blog, The Equation.
  • Advocacy
    • Help UCS advocate for smart policies with decision-makers at the state and sometimes federal level.
    • Engage in Public Utility Commission proceedings to support transportation electrification efforts.
    • Advance campaigns for accelerating EV deployment through effective infrastructure investment and utility policies.
    • Work to advance vehicle electrification and infrastructure policies that improve transportation equity and increase access to clean vehicles.
  • Materials
    • Prepare compelling written materials in a variety of formats ranging from short fact-sheets to longer reports, testimony, and peer-reviewed journal articles.
  • Expert Engagement
    • Build and maintain working relationships with other experts in academia, government, NGOs, and industry.

Qualifications and Experience

The position requires strong quantitative and analytical skills with a preference for candidates with expertise in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and grid-related impacts, sophisticated understanding and knowledge of electricity sector policy and public utility commission regulatory processes, and demonstrated experience with energy analysis and advocacy. General knowledge of transportation, energy, and climate policy is also required.

Work requires a minimum of 5-7 years of successful relevant and comparable experience. Candidates with Master’s degree preferred, including a background in research and analysis. A prerequisite for this position is proven advocacy and communication skills, experience developing analysis to inform policy, and demonstrated technical analysis skills.

The position also requires knowledge of effective issue campaign development, understanding of the policy process, including advocacy techniques and legislative strategy. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with technical experts and other professionals as well as with policymakers and the public is strongly preferred. Media experience a plus. A master’s degree in a relevant area (science, engineering, economics, public policy) is preferred. Training or experience in supervision and project management is also desirable. Proficiency in word processing and computer spreadsheets is required, and experience with energy and transportation models is strongly desired. Knowledge of electricity markets is also desirable.

Little or no exertion; may require extended periods at a computer; may require extended periods at a computer. Periodic travel (about 10% of the time) to events, conferences, speaking engagements, and other UCS offices will be required.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position with a preference for the position to be based in UCS’s Washington, DC or Cambridge, MA office. Our Oakland, CA office may also be possible depending on the candidate. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is between $65,000 and $75.000, (annualized) depending on experience. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, salary requirements, and how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Senior Vehicles Analyst-Advocate” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: May 6, 2018, or until filled.

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to Make Change Happen

We can ensure that decisions about our health, safety, and environment are based on the best available science—but not without you. Your generous support helps develop science-based solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.