Energy and Biodiversity Policy Specialist

Defenders; Washington (District of Columbia); Remote; USD 77,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation organization is seeking an Energy and Biodiversity Policy Specialist to develop strategies ensuring energy projects minimize impacts on wildlife. The role involves collaboration across departments and representation on national issues.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years relevant experience; equivalent education and experience considered.

Responsibilities

• Develop goals and objectives for energy and biodiversity initiatives.
• Collaborate with policy experts and lobbyists to oppose weakening environmental statutes.
• Research and produce policy papers and advocacy materials.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE

POSITION DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Energy and Biodiversity Policy Specialist	SALARY: $77,000 – $85,000
FLSA: Exempt	DEPARTMENT: Land and Habitat Conservation
LOCATION: HQ, Washington, DC; Denver, CO or Remote	REPORTS TO: Director, Energy and Biodiversity Program
NUMBER OF REPORTS: 0	LAST REVISED: March 2025

POSITION SUMMARY

This professional-level position is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to ensure energy projects are sited to avoid unnecessary impacts to wildlife and habitats. The specialist advances Defenders’ conservation mission and collaborates with various departments including Government Relations, Biodiversity Law Center, and others.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop goals and objectives for energy and biodiversity initiatives.
2. Collaborate with policy experts, attorneys, scientists, lobbyists, and communications staff to oppose efforts that weaken environmental statutes related to fossil fuel development.
3. Formulate positions on legislative and administrative proposals regarding energy project siting.
4. Coordinate internal energy-related efforts across departments.
5. Represent Defenders on national energy and biodiversity issues in public and governmental forums.
6. Research and produce policy papers, reports, blogs, and advocacy materials, coordinating with relevant departments.
7. Travel may be required for this role.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years relevant experience; equivalent education and experience considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strategic thinking, partnering, change management, problem solving, ecology, legal and government knowledge, public planning, representation, and communication skills.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES, ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Refer to the detailed tables for specific physical activities, environmental conditions, and physical demands.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Visit www.defenders.org to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities. Defenders of Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws. This position is union-eligible.