Chief of Sustainability & Climate Justice

City of Cleveland, Ohio; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Cleveland seeks a Director of Sustainability & Climate Justice to lead the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability & Climate Justice, guiding the city’s climate action plans and cross‑department coordination. The role focuses on advancing equity, emissions reductions, and resilience across municipal operations.

The Director will oversee strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, grant pursuit, and representation before regional and national bodies to advance Cleveland’s sustainability agenda.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific, engineering, environmental, or related technical field, Business Management or Public Administration; sustainability focus preferred.
• Minimum of five years of relevant professional experience leading sustainability and climate action projects.
• Extensive knowledge of current environmental sustainability issues, laws, and regulations.
• Knowledge of energy markets, GHG reductions, and renewable energy concepts.

Responsibilities

• Updates and executes the City’s strategic sustainability plans (MAP and CAP) in line with policies and regulations.
• Engages with diverse stakeholders to shape a participatory climate agenda.
• Provides leadership to ensure cross-department collaboration on sustainability initiatives.
• Represents the City on environmental sustainability boards, commissions and networks.
• Directs budgeting, programs, and policies within the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability & Climate Justice.
• Researches grants and prepares reports to advance climate action and sustainability programs.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Public speaking

Policy advocacy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field

Job description

City of Cleveland seeks a Director of Sustainability & Climate Justice to lead the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability & Climate Justice, guiding the city’s climate action plans and cross‑department coordination. The role focuses on advancing equity, emissions reductions, and resilience across municipal operations.

The Director will oversee strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, grant pursuit, and representation before regional and national bodies to advance Cleveland’s sustainability agenda.