Position Available
Amazon Program Policy Analyst
Brasilia Office
International Rivers protects rivers and defends the rights of communities that depend on them. We work to stop destructive dams and promote water and energy solutions for a just and sustainable world. Our work involves collaboration with local communities and their allies, research to fill information gaps on key issues, policy advocacy and communications strategies to increase public awareness. We are seeking a full-time campaigner and policy analyst to work in our Brazil regional office, located in Brasília. This is a full-time position (40 hours/week) within our Amazon Program that focuses on Brazil and Peru, with the expectation of international and domestic travel. This position will report to the Amazon Program Director in Brasília.
Primary responsibilities
1. Provide leadership and technical support for initiatives to promote sustainable energy solutions in Brazil, including analysis of energy sector and dam planning policies, development of proposals, strategic collaboration with other civil society organizations, advocacy vis-à-vis the National Congress and other government institutions, and development and implementation of communications strategies, working in conjunction with local partners in Brazil and other International Rivers staff.
2. Contribute to efforts to reform the engagement of the Brazilian National Development Bank (BNDES) in the energy sector, including conducting analysis of BNDES projects and policies, and generating debate and dialogue in the public domain and within the government, with a view to discouraging BNDES support for destructive hydroelectric dams, especially in the Amazon. Support efforts by partner groups from neighboring countries to engage with BNDES.
3. Work with Peruvian groups to critically engage in the development of a sustainable energy matrix for Peru, with a view to discouraging the Peruvian government from pursuing hydropower dams in the Amazon. This will include policy analysis, supervision of consultants, and coordination of publications and other communications activities.
4. Coordinate policy analysis, advocacy and communications activities regarding the Brazil-Peru bilateral energy agreement signed in June 2010, working in conjunction with NGOs, social movements and other partners in both countries, with a focus on stopping destructive dams in the Peruvian Amazon.
5. As with all International Rivers campaigns staff, undertake communications work related to key areas of responsibility, including responding to media inquiries, generating media opportunities with the Brazilian and international media, writing of articles, commentaries, blog posts and reports, and contributions to International Rivers' newsletter, World Rivers Review, and its website.
6. In conjunction with the Amazon Program Director, Campaigns Director and Development Department, help raise funds for International Rivers' Amazon Program, including writing text for grant proposals and reports.
Required qualifications:
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in energy policy and planning, especially in Brazil.
• Excellent research, writing and verbal communication skills in Portuguese, Spanish and English.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, develop effective campaign strategies and work as a team member.
• At least five years of experience related to sustainable energy and related public policies in Brazil and Peru, including demonstrated experience in advocating for public policy change in these countries.
• Diligence, independence, ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Ability to work well in a team and within an international network.
• Commitment to environmental integrity, social justice and the vision and mission of International Rivers.
• Strong computer skills (including the ability to maintain web pages).
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience required; graduate degree(s) a plus.
International Rivers offers a stimulating, casual and flexible work environment. Our competitive salary and benefits package includes health insurance and excellent vacation and sick leave. Salary is commensurate with experience.
To apply, send a cover letter, resume and one writing sample in English and one in Portuguese to: jobpostreg@internationalrivers.org. Be sure to mention "Policy Analyst – Amazon Program" in the address or subject line. Applications should be in English.
Deadline for applications: February 10, 2012
International Rivers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, class, disability status, ethnicity, gender, race and sexual orientation.