Policy Director- Environmental Justice Focus

MyHR Partner • Detroit, MI

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition (MEJC) is seeking a strategic Policy Director to lead its policy team and advance a people-centered climate justice agenda for Michigan. The director will supervise and develop staff, fellows, interns, and contractors; shape legislative priorities in partnership with the organizing team, members, and frontline communities; and represent MEJC in Lansing, the press, and coalitions. The role involves analyzing legislation for its impacts on frontline communities, supporting advocacy and research, and managing campaign budgets, spending, metrics, and grant reporting.

The 2027 policy focus includes expansion of fossil gas, carbon capture, and hydrogen projects, alongside MEJC’s Energy Democracy work opposing Investor-Owned Utilities and data center developments. The position is hybrid and open to candidates anywhere in Michigan, with regular travel to Lansing during legislative sessions, communities in West Michigan, and the Detroit office occasionally. Some evening and weekend work and out-of-state travel are required. A valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation are required; MEJC reimburses travel expenses.

Requirements

• 5–8 years of supervisory experience, including initiating and setting goals for organizing strategy and campaign management.
• Proven success leading issue campaigns, policy research, leadership development, and grassroots mobilization.
• Strong understanding of Environmental Justice and the Jemez and EJ Principles, including how legislation affects frontline communities.
• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to communicate, collaborate, and connect effectively and respectfully with people of diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
• Belief in and commitment to social, racial, and environmental justice.
• Ability to work nights and weekends and travel within and outside Michigan.
• Valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
• Must reside in Michigan.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with environmental justice, climate, social, or racial justice coalitions, networks, and alliances.
• Experience developing annual plans and budgets and tracking spending.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and supervise policy staff, fellows, interns, and contractors through regular one-on-ones, goal-setting, and evaluations.
• Guide and manage MEJC’s EJ Caucus and cultivate leadership among staff, members, and partners.
• Set policy positions and legislative priorities in partnership with the organizing team, members, and frontline communities.
• Analyze proposed legislation and explain it in clear, accessible language for community members and the public.
• Build relationships with legislators and their staff, and train others in lobbying and advocacy.
• Guide research papers with partner organizations and universities and promote them upon release.
• Represent MEJC with the press and in coalitions and alliances, including MEMJ, MICAN, CJA, and Elevate.
• Develop budgets, track spending, and manage data metrics for campaign evaluation and grant reporting.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with individual coverage 100% paid by MEJC.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Disability insurance options.
• Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
• Technology stipend.
• Professional development.
• Community involvement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director