Are there other jobs out there that claim to be the coolest job? Yes. Is this actually the coolest job? Very well may be. It’s really challenging, but there’s no other job like it and will help make you feel you’re actually doing something very meaningful in the world, which is very cool.
We seek someone with experience in training fired-up activists of diverse backgrounds in non-violent direct action skills, handling field logistics and coordinating direct actions. The successful candidate has a strong understanding of the philosophy and practice of non-violence and non-violent direct action as a means of social change. You have experience leading teams of various sizes and are adept at delegation and coordination. You are skilled at communication, planning, and personnel and project management. You can run effective and efficient meetings, use IM, SMS, email, the phone and direct interaction with real people dynamically and effectively, and you can juggle octopuses and tulips. You know that a desk can be as effective a tool as a line of activists locked arm-in-arm and that both need to be used effectively. You work well under pressure and are unfazed by a reliably chaotic atmosphere. You are an excellent strategic thinker and are skilled in conflict resolution. All members of the Action Team also coordinate field events and train key activists in project planning, technical skills and logistical coordination. If that isn’t enough, they are responsible for the health and safety of all individuals under their care in the field.
We are also interested in candidates that have experience/expertise in tactical communications and electronic equipment, the geeky language of computers and how they work and think, two-way radio communications (equipment including UHF, VHF and airband), wireless transmission and reception devices, radio frequency scanners, antennae and antennae systems, gizmos, gadgets and other things with bright little lights and that go ‘beep’.
Perhaps most importantly, you have a high degree of initiative, intuition, creativity, passion, zaniness, ambition, and an unconventional way of thinking. A commitment to non-violent direct action as means of effecting change is a must. The position requires potentially extensive travel both within the US and internationally as well as an abundant patience for meetings (without calling too many) and a savvy for finding ways to move work forward.
We understand this position is a unique one and do not expect anyone to have direct experience in every area listed above. Don’t let the specialization discourage you – what’s most important is a combination of a great love of helping other folks learn mixed with a healthy dose of mischief and a baseline of integrity and responsibility.
While the successful candidate has probably always secretly admired Doctor Xavier, wanted to be Phoebe Ann Mosey and liked Inspector Gadget’s ingenious toys more than they actually liked him, when it comes right down to it the folks they most want to emulate are Alfred, Q (Judi Denche’s version) and Gandhi.
This is a full-time position based in Washington DC or San Francisco.
BENEFITS
Greenpeace USA values a healthy work-life balance and has flexible, family-friendly employment policies. Our competitive benefits package for full-time employees includes medical, dental, and vision coverage with low contributions from staff. We have options for pre-tax flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care costs. Greenpeace employees enjoy generous 401K matching and time off for vacation, sick, personal, and parental leave. After five years, staff are eligible for a paid sabbatical. To encourage public transportation use and biking, we offer subsidies for staff who choose to bike or ride mass transit to work. Greenpeace is committed to the growth and development of staff and fostering a creative workplace culture. For more information, check out our benefits plan.
TO APPLY
Please send cover letter and resume to resumes@wdc.greenpeace.org. Please include the following in your cover letter: a specific explanation of your interest in Greenpeace's mission and the available position and how you found out about this career opportunity. Also be sure to indicate your preferred city. Please use the email subject line: Activist Program Office -YOUR NAME. Applications will be accepted until December 31st, 2013. No phone calls please.