Field Associate

Posted 12/4/08; Position open until filled.

VPIRG is looking for a mission-driven, politically savvy grassroots organizer with strong communications and strategic organizing skills to join our efforts to help educate and mobilize Vermonters to defend the public interest. The Field Associate will grow VPIRG’s grassroots activist base and motivate them through innovative, inspiring, action-oriented communications. You will use a variety of tactics including online organizing, phone banking, coalition development, community-based meetings, activist training, and media events to mobilize members and the general public to take action on our public interest campaigns. This position offers a unique opportunity for professional development and growth as you work on cutting edge issues affecting Vermont and the nation.

Qualifications sought: At least 2 years of experience in activist-oriented communications and political organizing. Proven experience in training and developing activists on a political or social change campaign. Experience working with the media and strong writing and public speaking skills. Experience with all levels of grassroots political campaigns including recruitment, training, messaging and direct negotiation with leaders. Experience with project management with a keen attention to detail. Familiarity with website and desktop publishing, graphics design and online organizing strategies. Fundraising experience a plus. Candidates must be able to travel (within state) and work evening/weekend hours as necessary. Commitment to VPIRG’s issues and a mission-driven approach are essential in this demanding and highly-professional work environment.

Competitive salary; employer-paid health, dental and disability insurance; employer-matching IRA contributions; four weeks paid vacation, plus personal days. Submit cover letter and resume via email to: colleen (at) vpirg.org and reference “Field Opening” in your subject line.

Download the full job announcement for additional details.

Policy Research, Field Organizing and Advocacy Internships
Winter 2009

VPIRG provides a number of internship opportunities for students throughout the year. Internships vary in content and focus based on the projects and programs they support. All internships provide a unique opportunity to get hands on experience working to defend the public interest by conducting research, public education and field organizing activities related to one of our main program areas:

* Energy/Global Warming
* Campaign to Close Vermont Yankee
* Environmental Health
* Health Care
* Democracy

Interns work directly with VPIRG advocates and organizers and collaborate with partner organizations and staff in the completion of their projects. Interns generally work out of our Montpelier office for a minimum of 10 hours per week. Some travel may be required depending on the project. These are unpaid positions, however stipends and/or credit options may be available through your school or other sponsorship.

Download the full job announcement for additional details.

New Media Technology and Social Networking Internship
Winter 2009

VPIRG utilizes a dynamic online action center that leverages technology to increase citizen participation in public policy and decision-making at the state level. We’re currently developing VPIRG 2.0 which will utilize new media and social networking tools to grow our network and deepen member engagement. We are looking for a creative, tech-savvy intern to help design innovative campaign media and to help build a dynamic, effective online presence.

Responsibilities and priorities include, but are not limited to:
* Developing campaign-oriented Flash media animations and graphics
* Producing, distributing and tracking viral email campaigns
* Assisting staff in redesigning the VPIRG website and overall online presence
* Developing YouTube videos and podcasts for online distribution (Facebook, Myspace, website, emails)
* Posting to and promoting the VPIRG website and social networking sites
* Identifying new ways for VPIRG to increase online visibility, traffic and member action
* Supporting and participating in related field and online organizing activities

This internship will provide you with a chance to develop your portfolio of work while learning strategies and tactics of public advocacy and field organizing in a real world setting. Your work will get statewide exposure and publicity, while helping to mobilize Vermonters on our critical issues – to stop global warming, protect the environment, and increase democratic participation.

Download the full job announcement for additional details.