Connecticut and New York State Policy Fellow
About The Position
The Connecticut and New York State Policy Fellow supports Audubon’s policy efforts in both states during their legislative sessions. The fellow works with the Connecticut and New York Policy Directors on conservation policy and gains experience with state legislative and budget processes, policy analysis, advocacy communications, and grassroots advocacy. 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 monitor and track legislation and budget proposals, research issues affecting birds and their habitats, prepare written policy materials, attend hearings and meetings, support communications and advocacy events, and coordinate with Audubon colleagues and external partners. The role also includes some evening work and travel to the State Capitol in Albany and Connecticut as needed.
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.
- Organized and detail-oriented, 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 quickly learn new online communications tools.
- 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
- Recent graduate or graduate student with a strong interest in environmental policy.
- 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
