Director of Policy Outreach — Washington, D.C.
Organization: Rails to Trails Conservancy
Job Title: Director of Policy Outreach
Location: Washington, D.C.
Hours and Compensation: Full time – RTC provides a competitive nonprofit sector salary commensurate with experience, plus an excellent benefits package.
Application Deadline: until filled
Posted On: Oct. 10, 2012
Organization Overview
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is a national nonprofit organization advocating for healthier lifestyles by creating a nationwide network of public trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. RTC advocates at the local, state and national level for policies that support trails and greenways for transportation, recreation, conservation and as an integral part of livable communities. Founded in 1986, RTC is one of the most respected trail, walking and bicycling advocacy organizations in the nation with more than 150,000 members and supporters. After helping create more than 21,000 miles of rail-trail during the last 26 years, RTC has an ambitious goal for the future: By 2020, 90 percent of Americans will live within three miles of a trail system. To that end, our Campaign for Active Transportation seeks to double federal investment in trails, biking and walking as a step toward making trail systems accessible to virtually all Americans. RTC is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with regional offices in California, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Responsibilities
This position plays an integral role in the organization’s efforts to advocate for trail systems and active transportation (human-powered mobility; primarily walking and bicycling) infrastructure and policies at the local, state and federal levels. The successful applicant will demonstrate skill and experience as an organizer, policy analyst, communicator, online content generator and advocate. The primary responsibilities of this position will be to:
• Spearhead a nascent and growing RTC-led coalition to convene organizations from health, economic development and other backgrounds to support the active transportation movement.
• Maintain and expand RTC’s growing partnerships of organizations and agencies to advocate for trail systems and active transportation. This work includes extensive networking and coordination among groups, resourceful assistance to partners and field staff, research and material preparation, creating and executing campaign strategies, and event planning.
• Manage a Web-based advocacy network of both individual and grasstops trail and active transportation activists. This work includes developing and executing strategies to continue growing RTC’s extensive online activist base, authoring and managing delivery of content to educate and activate participants, and creating and executing online campaigns.
• Develop agendas, coordinate logistics and ensure effective outcomes for forums and strategy sessions held around the country.
• Present at conferences, symposiums, meetings and forums.
• With an interdepartmental team, form policy, coordinate messaging, organize partners and media and ensure quality follow-through on numerous discrete and interconnected campaigns.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This individual will supervise one position and report directly to the Vice President of Policy and Trail Development.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree and at least five to seven years relevant work experience. Excellent written and verbal communications skills are essential. The ideal applicant will be experienced in grassroots and grasstops organizing as well as policy analysis. Knowledge of transportation and/or health policy, as well as local governments, is desired. Master’s degree in public health, urban planning or other related discipline preferred. Familiarity with Convio Luminate software a plus. Some work travel is expected.
How to Apply
(choose one form of transmitting your resume; no phone calls please)
Send cover letter and resume to: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Duke Ellington Building, Attn: Human Resources Office, 2121 Ward Court, 5th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20037, or e-mail to: [email protected]. Position is open until filled. RTC is an equal opportunity employer and seeks qualified candidates regardless of race, color, gender, disability or national origin. Women and diverse applicants are encouraged to apply.
