Open Buffalo is a civic initiative with a mission to create an equal, just and free city driven by a united and empowered community open to full democratic participation by all its residents, open to innovative ideas and policies; open to new leaders from diverse communities; and open to meaningful economic opportunity and sustainable wealth creation for all. By tackling systemic causes of oppression and inequality, we will make major, long-term improvements in justice and equity.
People United for Sustainable Housing (PUSH Buffalo) and Open Buffalo are the anchor organizations of the Just Transition Buffalo Collaborative. This initiative promotes systemic change in the areas of economic, racial and climate justice, and builds the voice of frontline communities.
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Job Posting
Economic and Climate Justice Coordinator
Date of Posting: January 4, 2016
Open Buffalo, as part of the exciting Just Transition Buffalo Collaborative, is seeking an experienced advocate for social justice to coordinate organizing efforts to make economic development projects and policies more sustainable and more just.
The Economic and Climate Justice (ECJ) Coordinator Position:
Open Buffalo is seeking candidates with deep commitment to social change and that share our vision of an “open” Buffalo. Our Economic and Climate Justice Coordinator (ECJ) will have a passion for building knowledge and power within disadvantaged communities while advancing energy and climate reforms. The ECJ Coordinator will work to ensure that all parts of Buffalo are able to participate in its economic rebirth.
This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits based in Buffalo, N.Y., reporting to the Executive Director of Open Buffalo.
Specific Responsibilities:
* Coordinate activities and campaigns of Open Buffalo’s “High Road Economic Development Table:” a coalition working to make sure that economic development projects and policies benefit the community and promote equity and sustainability.
* Identify, recruit, and retain residents and allies to advocate for institutional and social change as part of the Open Buffalo collaborative.
* Coordinate base-building efforts, including door-knocking, phone-banking and related field activities to engage the community.
* Work with the Open Buffalo Leadership Development Committee to identify candidates for leadership development and work with individuals to create increased capacity for personal growth, organizing, advocacy, and more.
* Create a Climate, Social and Economic Change Leadership Development program.
* Work with the Chorus Foundation and national partners to implement national best practices regarding principles of a “Just Transition” from an extractive and exploitative economy to a just and sustainable one.
* Educate Open Buffalo partners and community allies on Just Transition principles.
* Provide general support for Open Buffalo campaign work, and other environmental/climate justice movement support.
* Work with the Open Buffalo Director of Communications to engage in effective social media campaigns.
Qualifications:
* Minimum Experience: A bachelor’s degree plus three years of experience in community based work or a minimum of six or more years of continued professional growth in a demanding non-profit or government setting
* Demonstrated commitment, through work or volunteer experience, to social, economic and racial justice
* Cultural competency and proven ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
* Experience with and understanding of the tenets of community organizing
* Experience with and understanding of energy policy, environmental justice, and climate change
* Experience with and understanding of Erie County and New York State economic policies
* Excellent interpersonal skills (one-on-one and in a group format), written and oral communication skills
* Comfort speaking in community forums and facilitating relationships among various sectors
* Self-motivation, resourcefulness, and creativity
* Ability to work individually and as part of a team in a fast-paced work environment
* Ability to manage multiple agendas and operate effectively
* Strong follow-through and attention to detail
* Capacity to think strategically and analytically about social, economic, cultural, and political issues affecting a community
* Fluency in multiple languages is a plus
* Ability to work nights and weekends as needed
* Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and Internet communications
Application
The Open Buffalo and Just Transition collaborative value diversity and inclusion throughout our city and within our organizations. People of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply.
Applications are currently being accepted, interviews will begin in January 2016 and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please no calls or email inquiries. Please submit a cover letter, resume and three (3) professional references to:
Open Buffalo Search Committee
617 Main Street, Suite 350
Buffalo, NY 14203
Or via e-mail to jobs@openbuffalo.org
