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Water Pollution Found & Fixed!

Score one for water quality! On Wednesday, November 8th, the City of Pittsfield, under pressure from BEAT, found and shut down a cross connection between the stormwater system and the sewer drains. For the past year, BEAT had been sounding the alarm. Volunteers had found, sampled, and tested a stormwater outfall conveying alarming levels of E.coli into the river. The city, after some encouragement, finally found the source. Since then they have disconnected it from the rest of the system and are (presently) working to remedy the problem. FROM BERKSHIRE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION TEAM <more> 

Protestors charged with trespassing, unlawful assembly at Baker office sit-in

After two months of asking Gov. Charlie Baker to lead on climate change issues and ban new fossil-fuel infrastructure, 26 Massachusetts residents joined by approximately 300 supporters launched a sit-in around noon Thursday in the governor’s office. The individuals, affiliated with 350 Mass Action and various faith groups, refused to leave until Baker signed an executive order that effectively stops the building of new fossil-fuel infrastructure projects in Massachusetts. Baker did not respond to their requests, and the Massachusetts State Police charged the 26 people with trespassing and unlawful assembly when the building closed at 6 p.m. that evening. FROM THE BERKSHIRE EDGE <more> 

Gas power plant proposed in Albany

Community leaders and activists are calling on Governor Andrew Cuomo to halt a proposed fracked gas power plant in downtown Albany. Many in the area want to see this plant use anything but non-renewable energy, given what’s happened here 23 years ago. These women can still remember the thick smell of burning garbage, a weekly norm for many living in the Sheridan Hollow neighborhood back in the 80s and 90s. “It was just so bad. I mean our parents had to make us come in the house because it was falling in our hair, everywhere.” FROM NEWS 10 <more>

President Donald Trumps pick to lead New England EPA lauded by environmentalists 

The Trump administration’s pick to lead Region I of the Environmental Protection Agency is drawing praise from environmental groups. Alexandra Dapolito Dunn, a Rockport native, will lead the agency’s Boston office, overseeing federal programs in the six New England states, EPA administrator Scott Pruitt announced Thursday. Conservation Law Foundation president Bradley Campbell referred to Dunn, 50, as “a superb choice.” “It is a refreshing change of pace to see a Trump Administration appointee who gives New England climate and public health advocates reason to cheer,” said Campbell. FROM MASSIVE.COM <more>

Meet the young activists fighting Enbridge’s Line 3 oil pipeline

Much of the debate over Enbridge Energy’s Line 3 oil pipeline proposal has been framed as environmental issues against jobs and oil needs. But for a group of 13 young people calling themselves the Youth Climate Intervenors, it’s much bigger than that. Here’s their case: All the oil Enbridge’s replacement pipeline would carry across Minnesota would exacerbate climate change — and the youngest among us will suffer the effects the most. Young people are leading the fight against the pipeline, said 23-year-old Brent Murcia. “And that makes sense, because it’s our fight. We are here to be a voice for the future.” FROM MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO <more> 

Jobs (click for full job listings)

Environmental Justice Community Organizer  | Arise for Social Justice | Springfield, MA

Conservation Agent | Town of Becket | Becket, MA

Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison  | The Nature Conservancy | Boston, MA

Fee Stewardship Coordinator  | MA Dept. of Fish & Game | Westborough, MA

Interpretive Writer | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

Development & Sales Officer | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

Executive Director | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

MA Community Organizer  | Mothers Out Front | Worcester, MA

Government Relations Specialist | The Nature Conservancy | Boston, MA

Event Planner | Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee | Westfield, MA 

Campus Organizer | PIRG Campus Action | Western MA

Environmental Health Manager | Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition | Springfield, MA

Regional Recycling Coordinator | City of Pittsfield | Pittsfield, MA 

Conservation Projects Manager | Housatonic Valley Association | Cornwall Bridge, CT

Director of Ecological Restoration | MA Dept. of Fish & Game | Boston, MA

Community Solar Interns | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Energy Efficiency Intern | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Community Solar Program Director | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Energy Efficiency Program Manager | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Chief Executive Officer | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

2017-18 Position Openings | TerraCorps – Various locations

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Water Pollution Found & Fixed! 

FROM BERKSHIRE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION TEAM

Score one for water quality! On Wednesday, November 8th, the City of Pittsfield, under pressure from BEAT, found and shut down a cross connection between the stormwater system and the sewer drains.

For the past year, BEAT had been sounding the alarm. Volunteers had found, sampled, and tested a stormwater outfall conveying alarming levels of E.coli into the river. The city, after some encouragement, finally found the source. Since then they have disconnected it from the rest of the system and are (presently) working to remedy the problem.

Immense credit goes out to all those people who strapped on chest waders, rubber gloves, and braved currents, to map, collect, and analyze water samples from our river. This ACTION by the City of Pittsfield had everything to do with an engaged community sleuthing out a source of pollution and organizations like BEAT, HVA, and BCC supporting those citizen scientists.

Ahhh, the sweet (sewage-free) smell of victory!

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Protestors charged with trespassing, unlawful assembly at Baker office sit-in 

FROM THE BERKSHIRE EDGE

Boston — After two months of asking Gov. Charlie Baker to lead on climate change issues and ban new fossil-fuel infrastructure, 26 Massachusetts residents joined by approximately 300 supporters launched a sit-in around noon Thursday in the governor’s office. The individuals, affiliated with 350 Mass Action and various faith groups, refused to leave until Baker signed an executive order that effectively stops the building of new fossil-fuel infrastructure projects in Massachusetts. Baker did not respond to their requests, and the Massachusetts State Police charged the 26 people with trespassing and unlawful assembly when the building closed at 6 p.m. that evening.

The United States is now the only nation in the world that does not pledge to uphold the Paris climate agreement, following last week’s announcement by Syria of its intention to join. After a sit-in last week, Baker told State House News that he doesn’t want to “take options off the table,” and proclaimed that “this administration has been a national leader in continuing to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Those sitting in included a retired medical doctor, a leukemia researcher, three ordained clergy members, parents and grandparents. They are among over 350 concerned residents who have personally visited the Baker’s office over the past two months, asking him to commit to stopping new fossil-fuel projects.

“As a Christian, I believe that God entrusted the world to our care. Desecrating the earth by disrupting its climate and unraveling the web of life is an affront against our Creator. In order to avert climate catastrophe and to preserve a habitable planet, we must keep fossil fuels in the ground. We call upon the Governor to help us move as swiftly as possible to a clean energy future in which all communities can thrive,” said Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas, missioner for creation care for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts and the United Church of Christ Massachusetts Conference.

“As a doctor, I tend to go by ‘First, do no harm.’ I think that’s a good rule not just for doctors, but for anyone who has power. And our scientists tell us that by investing any further in fossil fuels, Governor Baker is doing harm; so I think he needs to stop, right now. We know that President Trump is doing tremendous damage to our country and our planet with his blind support of fossil fuels. This is the Governor’s chance to break with the Trump madness, put his foot down, and mandate that Massachusetts build only what’s best for our state and for the world. I’m not ready to give up on Patient Earth and I’m hoping Governor Baker will join the treatment team,” said Dr. Sue Donaldson, a member of 350 Massachusetts.

Jim Mulloy, Ph.D., and member of 350 Massachusetts, said: “As a scientist, I am driven by the data. 97% of climate scientists agree that human activity is the main contributor to climate change. It is incumbent on the politicians to listen to the experts and craft policy to avert the crisis we face. Instead, Governor Baker is taking a page from President Trump’s playbook and catering to the whims of the fossil fuel corporations while sticking taxpayers with the bill. We expect better in Massachusetts. Governor Baker, sign the executive order and galvanize the green energy revolution in Massachusetts.”

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Gas power plant proposed in Albany 

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) – Community leaders and activists are calling on Governor Andrew Cuomo to halt a proposed fracked gas power plant in downtown Albany.

Many in the area want to see this plant use anything but non-renewable energy, given what’s happened here 23 years ago.

These women can still remember the thick smell of burning garbage, a weekly norm for many living in the Sheridan Hollow neighborhood back in the 80s and 90s. “It was just so bad. I mean our parents had to make us come in the house because it was falling in our hair, everywhere.”

For 12 years, downtown Albany was polluted by the old answers plant, which burned trash for energy. The community says as a result, many in the area died of cancer.

“It wasn’t a safe place for any of us.” Now, they’re afraid of being poisoned again after the New York Power Authority wants to build natural gas turbines inside this steam plant to heat Empire State Plaza.

Environmental activists are urging the state to consider renewable energy sources like geothermal technology. “There are emissions coming from this facility right now. What we’re suggesting is a solution that would not only not put more smoke stacks it would take those away because you wouldn’t need a steam tunnel anymore,” Keith Schue, Science Advisor for SHARE, said.

For the Sheridan Hollow neighborhood, it’s time to fight back against potential toxins looming from the smoke stacks that tower over their homes.

“It cannot be a coincidence. We shouldn’t’ be burying all these people because of cancer.” NYPA agreed to conduct an environmental impact statement for the project, but the community says it won’t happen soon enough. The Sheridan Hollow Alliance plans to meet with city officials on Friday.

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President Donald Trumps pick to lead New England EPA lauded by environmentalists

BOSTON — The Trump administration’s pick to lead Region I of the Environmental Protection Agency is drawing praise from environmental groups.

Alexandra Dapolito Dunn, a Rockport native, will lead the agency’s Boston office, overseeing federal programs in the six New England states, EPA administrator Scott Pruitt announced Thursday.

Conservation Law Foundation president Bradley Campbell referred to Dunn, 50, as “a superb choice.”

“It is a refreshing change of pace to see a Trump Administration appointee who gives New England climate and public health advocates reason to cheer,” said Campbell. He said the CLF looks forward to working with Dunn “to chart a course of science-based policies that will preserve New England’s natural resources, grow our economy, and protect the health of our communities for decades to come.”

In western New England, the director of the Connecticut River Conservancy — known for its ardent defense of the four-state waterway — issued hopeful words.

“Alexandra is a committed environmental attorney with a solid record of experience that will serve her well,” said Andrew Fisk, executive director of the Greenfield-based nonprofit. “She understands the important role of citizen organizations in improving the quality of our environment. We look forward to working with her to build on New England’s proud tradition of environmental protection.”

Patrick Beaudry, spokesman for the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, said the Springfield-based organization often works with the EPA to help communities address pollution problems in Hampden and Hampshire counties.

“We look forward to continuing a fruitful federal partnership,” said Beaudry.

Environmental commissioners from Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island issued words of praise for Dunn, as did Martin Suuberg, commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Dunn “has significant experience in environmental law, and has been a strong environmental advocate for states” as executive director and general counsel for the Environmental Council of States, said Suuberg.

Prior to joining ECOS, a nonpartisan organization, Dunn was executive director and general counsel for the Association of Clean Water Administrators.

Dunn has taught at Columbus School of Law, Catholic University of America, Washington College of Law, and Pace University, where she was law school dean.

Dunn is an elected regent of the American College of Environmental Lawyers, sits on the executive committee of the Environmental Law Institute and has chaired the American Bar Association’s section on energy and environment.

Pruitt, at his 2016 confirmation hearing, said he believes the states, not the federal government, should lead environmental efforts. He said the role of the EPA should be limited to air and water pollution that crosses state lines. However, as Oklahama attorney general, Pruitt fought the EPA’s cross-state pollution rules.

In a statement, Pruitt said Dunn “is exceptionally qualified to carry out administrative duties to lead our New England office,” adding that her service “will be key to helping implement this administration’s positive environmental agenda for our Northeast region.”

Pruitt, with ties to oil and gas interests in his home state, rejects scientific consensus that emissions from fossil fuel combustion are the primary driver of climate change — despite a 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found carbon dioxide is a harmful pollutant that must be regulated.

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey last month threatened to sue the EPA after Pruitt vowed to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, an Obama-era rule that would require states to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

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Meet the young activists fighting Enbridge’s Line 3 oil pipeline

Much of the debate over Enbridge Energy’s Line 3 oil pipeline proposal has been framed as environmental issues against jobs and oil needs.

But for a group of 13 young people calling themselves the Youth Climate Intervenors, it’s much bigger than that.

Here’s their case: All the oil Enbridge’s replacement pipeline would carry across Minnesota would exacerbate climate change — and the youngest among us will suffer the effects the most.

Young people are leading the fight against the pipeline, said 23-year-old Brent Murcia. “And that makes sense, because it’s our fight. We are here to be a voice for the future.”

Enbridge wants to replace its aging Line 3 pipeline with a new one along a different route through northern Minnesota’s lakes, forests and wetlands. Supporters say it’ll bring jobs and private investment, and opponents say we don’t need any more oil here and that the environmental risks are too great.

An administrative law judge is weighing all evidence and public input now, preparing for a decision to come in spring.

In July, the Youth Climate Intervenors — who range in age from 16 to 23 — were granted official party status in the pipeline case.

Frances Wetherall shed tears of joy last summer when she saw the news on Facebook.

“My first reaction was complete shock, because I had wanted this so badly but I honestly didn’t expect it to be given to us,” she said.

Official party status gives the group a strong voice in hearings. For example, Murcia found himself cross-examining one of Enbridge’s experts last week.

“In some sense it’s intimidating, but in another sense it feels really powerful,” he said.

Navigating legal and administrative processes hasn’t been easy for this group, especially for those juggling school or work.

“I’ve pulled multiple all-nighters — I’m not alone in that,” Murcia said.

We won’t find out until next spring if the Youth Climate Intervenors’ arguments stop the pipeline from getting a greenlight.

But their story is being told and shared. They’ve been featured in The Nation and Teen Vogue.

Even if Line 3 is eventually approved, the Youth Climate Intervenors are seen as an inspiration, said author Geoff Dembicki, who wrote “Are We Screwed?” in which he profiled young people across the U.S. and Canada engaged in a variety of strategies to fight climate change.

“The young people who read about that and hear about this struggle will be thinking to themselves, ‘Well, what kind of society do I want to live in?'” Dembicki said.

Climate Intervenor Sarah Harper, 21, hopes it won’t be the last time young people are taken seriously in a process normally dominated by lawyers.

“We proved that we have a right to be there and that we can hold our own,” she said.


Jobs


Environmental Justice Community Organizer
Arise for Social Justice

Arise for Social Justice, a member-led low-income rights community organization in Springfield, MA seeks a community organizer to oversee our Environmental Justice and Public Health work in Springfield.

Responsibilities include working with community members to address ongoing sources of pollution, partnering with local and statewide organizations to develop and advocate for socially justice policy and solutions, and advancing the mission of our organization. Our Environmental Justice Organizer also coordinates the Springfield Climate Justice Coalition, an alliance of over 45 community organizations, faith based groups, civic organizations, and businesses working together for Climate Justice.

Qualified candidates will have some community organizing experience, familiarity with environmental and/or public health issues, a flexible work schedule, an understanding of the political processes and government structures, strong communication skills, the ability to manage multiple projects, and a commitment to community and social justice.

Additional preferred qualifications are experience in grant writing, researching, and reporting, experience in using social media as an organizing tool, and a familiarity with the Springfield, MA region.

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to AriseForSocialJustice@gmail.com, ATTN: Michaelann Bewsee, Executive Director.

This is a 1099 consultant position, based on 30 hours a week at $20/hr ($600 a week). Benefits include some paid time off and sick time.


Conservation Agent
Town of Becket

The Town of Becket is seeking qualified applicants for the part-time (average seventeen (17) hours per week) non benefited position of Conservation Agent Working under the direction of the Town Administrator and general guidance of the Conservation Commission Chairman, the Conservation Agent is to provide technical and administrative assistance to the Conservation Commission. Required tasks include administering the Wetlands Protection Act and associated laws and town by-laws. The Conservation Agent to the Becket Conservation Commission will need to attend Conservation Commission Meetings, which are normally held on the 3rd Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 PM in the Becket Town Hall. Applicant must be able to develop draft and final permit approvals, orders of conditions and other Commission-issued permits as needed as well as set agendas and provide file maintenance. Must perform on-site inspections, verify wetland resource boundaries and review applications. Will need to maintain office hours for the public, day and time are negotiable but need to be consistent.

Qualifications: college degree in environmental science or other appropriate field with two or more years’ experience in wetland resource administration, or any equivalent combination of education and experience are highly desirable. Position requires sustained periods of walking and hiking, sometimes in construction zones, knowledge of Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, and ability to communicate clearly orally and in written form. The Agent must be familiar with Conservation Commission procedures and will need to interface with the public, volunteers, and various other departments in town.

Please mail or e- mail a cover letter and resume to Edward Gibson, Town Administrator, Becket Town Hall, 557 Main Street, Becket, MA. 01223; Administrator@townofbecket.org. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Becket is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer.


Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison
Massachusetts Chapter of the Nature Conservancy

The Massachusetts Chapter of The Nature Conservancy is recruiting for an Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison to be responsible for supporting the State Director, Assistant State Director, and Massachusetts Board of Trustees. S/He provides high-level administrative support and manages the operations of the Board of Trustees. For more information and to apply, visit www.nature.org/careers and search for Job #45877. Posting closes 11/29/17.


Fee Stewardship Coordinator
MA Dept. of Fisheries & Wildlife | Westborough, MA

The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is accepting resumes and applications from applicants for the position of Fee Stewardship Coordinator. The Fee Stewardship Coordinator is the primary overseer and manager of the realty aspects of MassWildlife’s fee-owned properties, which include 167,000 acres assembled over the last century.  The individual will have a thorough understanding of real estate terminology and research techniques and become familiar with the entirety of the agency’s portfolio of properties, in order to advise staff on matters of acquisition and stewardship.

The Fee Stewardship Coordinator will maintain realty records, coordinate boundary-marking efforts, survey contracts and other services, and manage selected boundary disputes and encroachment issues. He or she will conduct deed research and provide advice regarding property interests as necessary in support of agency stewardship, acquisition, and public enjoyment of agency lands. This effort will include periodic monitoring and site visits, collaboration in implementing the agency’s Land Information System, procuring signage, assisting in the development of agency land-use policies, and being a good colleague for the other members of the Realty Section (Chief, CR Coordinator, Realty Specialist, and interns).

To learn more and to apply, click here.


Hilltown Families Is Hiring

Hilltown Families is hiring an Interpretive Writer and Development & Sales Officer, as well as an Executive Director. 

They also have openings for volunteers and interns. Take a look at their website here for all of the details.


MA Community Organizer
Mothers Out Front : Mobilizing For A Livable Climate | Worcester, MA

Position Summary:  The Massachusetts Community Organizer builds and supports volunteer-led community teams to grow a diverse and powerful movement of mothers that develops and implements campaigns to achieve a swift, complete, and just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Specifically, the Community Organizer works to:

  1. Identify mothers, grandmothers and other caregivers in Worcester and Central Massachusetts who share Mothers Out Front’s goals and are willing to take action to reduce climate change;

  2. Support the creation of member-led teams in diverse communities in Worcester and Central Massachusetts by helping to organize house parties and coaching team leaders and potential leaders;

  3. Support member-led teams to launch and carry out local Mothers Out Front campaigns;

  4. Connect local teams to state campaigns and national Mothers Out Front movement work across states; and

  5. Provide “in-the-background” support and training to team members to strengthen their leadership skills, including their use of data and technology to support organizing.

READ THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION & APPLY HERE


Event Planner
Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee | Westfield, MA 

In 2018, the Westfield River will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary since being designated as a National Wild & Scenic River. This happens to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. As we near a quarter century of protecting the Westfield River and half century of protecting some of the greatest rivers in the United States, we hope to celebrate the accomplishments of the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System with a series of events and promotional materials. The Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee seeks an Event Planner to assist us with our 25th and 50th Wild & Scenic Anniversaries outreach and events in 2018. Proposals will be accepted until filled with an initial review to begin on September 28th, 2017. RFQ Details here.


 Environmental Health Manager
Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition | Springfield, MA

Primary Objective
Partners for a Healthier Communities (PHC)’ Environmental Health Manager (listed on the Baystate Health website (as “Community Health Planning/Environmental Health) is responsible for the planning, program development, and evaluation of environmental health and other projects, including assistance to subcontractors and community partners allied with the agency in this these efforts. The environmental health initiative will focus on a variety of types of projects, including the management of the Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition, systems and policy change, and collective impact. The Environmental Health Manager will cultivate and strengthen strategic community partnerships and alliances between local, regional, and state-level coalitions and advocacy organizations; community-based nonprofit corporations; and business, social, educational, and health entities.

Role of the Environmental Health Manager
The position’s role typically involves grantwriting and reporting, leading environmental health projects, and convening as necessary community partners and clients to achieve the needed goals of projects.  Partnerships could be with sectors such as faith, business, education, academic, healthcare, social sector entities.

In particular, the position implements programming for initiatives to improve the health of people enrolled in the project:

  1. Develops programs and services that promote best and emerging practices for the environmental health area.  Designs and implements collaborative strategies with community partners and collaborators such as  social organizations, faith communities, community-based organizations and so on;
  2. Assists in strategic thinking, research and evaluation and program planning to achieve the corporation’s strategic goals and objectives assigned to the Consultant.  In this area, the Consultant is primarily responsible for implementing strategies such as providing training and technical assistance to help prioritize issues and develop community partnerships, utilizing data to execute new initiatives, evaluate results and communicate progress.
  3. Provides facilitative leadership to fellow community leaders, and offers opportunities and/or shares experiences, perspectives and expertise on issues such as partnership development, meeting planning, facilitation, and conflict management;
  4. Provides facilitative leadership to the project team in action planning including steps and/or activities to address the priority areas, and implementing actions with a timeline, identifiable milestones and evaluation measures;
  5. Oversee subcontractors when necessary and student interns;

Performance Expectations
It is expected that the Environmental Health Manager will work under the general supervision of the Director of Programs & Development.

The Environmental Health Manager’s work entails the day-to-day management (including planning, directing and organizing staff, programming and funding responsibility) of Environmental Health programs and activities.

  1. Programs will meet the objective of the strategic goals and objectives of PHC.
  2. Coalition-building activities will adhere to PHC standards.
  3. In establishing community programs, planning will adhere to a community health planning methodology and the planning processes will result in high quality successful programs.
  4. Community programs and issues will undergo regular assessments and review based on published reports on internal and external environmental issues related to the corporations health priority areas.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Public Administration, Public Policy or related field required.  Master’s level college degree in these areas is preferred.
  • Applicant must have five years of relevant experience in a role of a program manager or supervisor in a public health or human service program. Five years of relevant experience in a role equivalent to a Program Director of a major public health program is preferred.

Core Competencies
The high visibility of this position, both internally and externally, requires that the Environmental Health Manager have

  • Experience designing and implementing program and initiative planning;
  • Highly proficient writing skills;
  • Strong interpersonal, facilitation and collaborative planning skills;
  • Proven abilities to work with and within teams;
  • Strong written and oral communication skills; bilingual preferred
  • A high degree of computer literacy;
  • Demonstrated use of community problem-solving skills;
  • Demonstrated facilitative leadership experiences in a community setting; and
  • Strong understanding of the public health environment (including asthma and environmental health) and the healthcare environment.
  • Strong public presentation skills

About Partners for a Healthier Community
Partners for a Healthier Community, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, provides skills, expertise and experience to create successful public health campaigns and sustainable system changes to improve health and well-being in Western MA. Through partnerships, we build on community assets and build community capacity to positively impact social determinants of health. Our services include Research and Assessment, Coalition-building, Program Evaluation and Health Policy Development. PHC is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit with a 20 member Board of Directors and relies on state, federal and private grants and contracts. PHC contracts with Baystate Health for Human Resources services.

TO APPLY: Candidates for PHC’s Environmental Health Manager (Community Health Planning Consultant/Environmental Health) should apply through Baystate Health’s job portal at https://www.baystatehealthjobs.com/job/springfield/community-health-planning-consultant-environmental-health-full-time/156/5671580


Campus Organizer
PIRG Campus Action | Western MA

FULL TIME CAREER POSITION
At PIRG Campus Action, our full time organizers work on college campuses across the country to empower students to make a difference on critical environmental and social issues.

If we’re serious about climate change, we can’t afford to drag our feet—so we’re pushing cities and states to commit to 100% renewable energy, now. We rely on bees to pollinate our food, yet we’re allowing some pesticides to drive them toward extinction—so we’re working to ban these bee-killing pesticides. People in our communities and even students on college campuses are dealing with hunger and homelessness that affect their quality of life. We’re raising funds, toiletries, and food items for our local relief agencies – as well as holding fundraisers for Hurricane Relief for the communities in TX, FL, and the Caribbean who were hit from the recent natural disasters.

We’re looking for an individual who has the passion and the drive it takes to win positive change on these important issues, and who isn’t afraid of hard work. Ideally, this person has experience working on campaigns or with groups on campus. Our Berkshires organizer will mobilize a team of passionate students to run a campus chapter on two campuses in Western MA. You’ll recruit dozens of students to volunteer and get involved, and teach them how to plan and run effective campaigns through internships and on-the-ground training.

You’ll build relationships with faculty and administrators, while organizing news events and rallies, and generating the grassroots support it takes to win campaigns. During the summer, you’ll run a citizen outreach office, building the organization by canvassing and training others to canvass. And you’ll learn from some of the best organizers in the country—people who have been doing this work for more than 30 years.

Location: Western MA (organizing at Berkshire Community College and Mass College of Liberal Arts)
We’re also hiring organizers to work on college campuses in California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Oregon and a few other states.

Pay & benefits
The target annual compensation for this position is $25,500 in the first year. PIRG Campus Action offers a competitive benefits package. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.

Apply here today or contact Samantha@masspirgstudents.org directly with any inquiries or recommendations for candidates.


Regional Recycling Coordinator
City of Pittsfield | Pittsfield, MA

The Municipal Assistance Coordinator for the Western District (WE) provides technical assistance to municipalities to increase recycling, composting, waste reduction, household hazardous waste diversion and regional cooperation.  The City of Pittsfield has been awarded a Host Community grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to fund this position.

The Coordinator will act under the supervision of the MassDEP and will serve 100 municipalities in a district known as “Western”.  The district extends from Ware to Richmond.  For a map and list of communities in the district, please visit: http://www.mass.gov/dep/recycle/reduce/macmap.htm

This is an independent contractor position.  The position is funded at 36 hours per week, with an annual ceiling of 1,800 hours.  Annual compensation is commensurate with experience, starting at not less than $55,000.  An additional $5,000 annual reimbursement is provided for self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare). Use of personal vehicle is required.  Vehicle mileage, tolls and parking =will be reimbursed.  Limited funding for in-state professional conferences is also provided.

DEADLINE TO APPLY:  Friday, September 8, 2017 @ 4:00PM
Full listing and application details here.


Conservation Projects Manager
Housatonic Valley Association | Cornwall Bridge, CT

The Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented environmental professional to join our Watershed Conservation Team. The successful candidate will support all aspects of HVA’s conservation projects, which include (but aren’t limited to) environmental monitoring, regional road-stream crossing assessment and replacement planning, watershed management planning, stream corridor restoration, stormwater management through Green Infrastructure development, and environmental education. This position is based out of HVA’s Connecticut office.

This is only a part of the job description. To view the full descriptions and to apply, click here.


Director of Ecological Restoration
MA Department of Fish & Game | Boston, MA

The Division of Ecological Restoration is charged with restoring and protecting the health and integrity of the Commonwealth’s rivers, wetlands, and watersheds for the benefit of people and the environment. This mission is critical to the success of the Department of Fish and Game that manages, protects, and restores the natural resources of the Commonwealth.

The Division of Ecological Restoration works with community-based partners to restore aquatic ecosystems. The Division’s ecological restoration work brings clean water, recreation opportunities, and other ecosystem services to the citizens of Massachusetts.

The Director leads the Division of Ecological Restoration, one of three Divisions (and one Office) of the Department of Fish and Game. The Director is responsible for all functions and program performance ensuring that the Deputy Director is properly managing the day-today operations of the Division and the assistant director is administering annual budgets properly. The Director develops and makes sure the annual and five-year strategic plan goals are implemented and sets procedures and program priorities for the Deputy Director and Assistant Director to faithfully administer. The Director oversees development of the operational and capital budgets and manages a diverse staff.

This is only a small part of the job description. Click here to read the full description and to apply. 


Various Positions at Co-op Power

Co-op Power in Florence, MA, is hiring for:

  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Energy Efficiency Program Manager
  • Community Solar Program Director
  • Energy Efficiency Intern
  • Community Solar Interns

Full details and how to apply here.

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2017-18 Position Openings with TerraCorps – Various locations

TerraCorps, formerly MassLIFT-AmeriCorps, is an innovative national service program helping communities conserve and secure land for the health and well-being of people and nature. This year we are looking for 36 members to serve in full-time, 11 month positions. Members will carry out capacity building projects; educate or train individuals; recruit, train, manage, and support community volunteers engaged in land-based activities; and identify new individuals and groups to participate in education, recreation, or service opportunities centered around land access and conservation.

Members serve as: Land Stewardship Coordinators, Regional Conservation Coordinators, Youth Education Coordinators, or Community Engagement Coordinators.

These 1,700 hour AmeriCorps positions receive a living allowance, education award, and additional AmeriCorps benefits. The 2017-2018 program will run from 8/28/17 – 7/27/18.

Application specifics, position descriptions, and information about organizations hosting TerraCorps members can be found at here.

Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

AmeriCorps programs provide equal service opportunities. TerraCorps will recruit and select persons in all positions to ensure a diverse and inclusive climate without regard to any particular status. We encourage applications from individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations for interviews and service upon request. TerraCorps is a grant program of the Corporation for National and Community Service.

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