Connecticut and New York State Policy Fellow

National Audubon Society•New York, NY

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Connecticut and New York State Policy Fellow will support the National Audubon Society’s policy efforts in New York and Connecticut during the states’ legislative sessions. The role provides an opportunity to learn how environmental conservation intersects with state law and policy. The fellow will support the Audubon CT and NY Policy Directors through research, legislative tracking, drafting, meeting participation, communications, and advocacy-event coordination. The position is on-site at Audubon’s Albany Office, runs from January 2027 through June 2027, and is 35 hours per week. Compensation is $22.00 per hour. The fellow will gain experience with the New York and Connecticut legislative and budget processes, conservation-policy analysis, policy and advocacy writing, grassroots advocacy planning, relationship-building, and representing a conservation organization professionally.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in political science, environmental studies, public policy, or another relevant field.
Demonstrated interest in conservation, environmental policy, or the legislative process.
Excellent written communication skills, including spelling and grammar, and an aptitude for communications and messaging.
Strong research skills and ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible materials.
Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines during a fast-paced legislative session.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter, and ability to learn new online communications tools quickly.
Willingness to travel, including to the State Capitol in Albany and to Connecticut as needed, and to commit to some evening work.
Reliable transportation and/or a valid driver’s license.
Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

Nice To Haves

Prior internship or volunteer experience in policy, government, or advocacy.
Experience with EveryAction, Mobilize, or similar advocacy and email management systems.
Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments.

Responsibilities

Review legislative introductions, monitor and track priority legislation and state budget proposals in New York and Connecticut, and maintain the team’s bill tracker.
Assist in drafting legislative memos, testimony, and budget priorities, and provide policy recommendations for legislators.
Research legislative, regulatory, and policy issues affecting birds and their habitats, and summarize findings for staff.
Attend legislative hearings, committee meetings, and coalition meetings, and prepare brief summaries and follow-up notes.
Collaborate with Audubon communications staff to develop social media content, action alerts, blogs, and fact sheets supporting advocacy goals.
Assist with organizing and scheduling lobby days, including coordinating with chapters, members, and coalition partners.
Assist with policy events at Audubon’s nature center and sanctuaries.
Participate in meetings with state and federal officials and their staff alongside Audubon policy staff to advance Audubon’s policy priorities.
Participate in Audubon team meetings and collaborate with colleagues across the Connecticut and New York offices and the broader Audubon network.
Maintain and foster a culture of safety.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.