Analyst, Global Climate

With world attention on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. By focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches, we tackle urgent threats with practical solutions. We are one of the world’s largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of approximately 700 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world. We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You will be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents and contributions, where innovation and results are a way of life.

EDF envisions a world in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected to the environmental challenges we face and are engaged in creating durable, equitable solutions. We seek talented candidates who share the Core Values that allow us to experiment courageously in our work while staying true to who we’ve been as an organization for 50 years. Are you a results oriented individual who is passionate about creating environmental solutions that make a lasting difference in the world? Do you respect diverse perspectives, talents and contributions? Do you value innovation and enjoy designing and using a wide range of problem-solving tools? Do you embrace environmental goals with a sense of optimism while taking into account real-world dynamics? If you have integrity and a strong desire to uphold a commitment to science, rigorous analysis, intellectual honesty and ethical action, then EDF is the place for you.

Location

San Francisco, CA or Washington, D.C.

Overall Function

EDF’s Global Climate team seeks a Analyst to provide critical research, analysis, and coordination to support our efforts to advance market-based policy solutions to address climate change.  The Analyst will inform our advocacy as we work to strengthen and expand international carbon pricing cooperation.  The Analyst will undertake, assist team members and partners with, and coordinate strategic outreach with developing country governments, civil society, industry, and other diverse stakeholders, with the aim of broadening perspectives and participation in carbon market development and infrastructure.  A portion of this outreach will be undertaken at meetings held under the auspices of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).  S/he will also assist in preparing EDF staff for UNFCCC climate conferences and coordinating EDF’s outreach at these events In addition, the Analyst  will undertake independent multi-disciplinary expert research and analysis on selected topics in the field of carbon markets, including the potential role of carbon markets in achieving the nationally-determined climate and development plans of diverse countries.  In undertaking this work, the Analyst will be able to draw upon expertise across EDF’s Climate Team and related programs, but the Analyst will be expected to serve as lead author on studies for publication.

Key Responsibilities

• As a member of EDF’s climate team, develop and advocate policy approaches to carbon accounting and transparency to ensure integrity in carbon markets, including carbon “offsetting” 
• Undertake independent multi-disciplinary expert research and analysis on selected topics in the field carbon markets, including each of the above, as well as estimating potential demand for and supply of high-integrity greenhouse gas emission reductions in diverse countries; coordinate input from and review of this research and analysis by other experts from EDF’s Climate Program and related programs, as well as experts from outside of EDF; serve as lead author on studies for publication
• Conduct and synthesize research and analysis through presentations and in written policy briefs and other communications materials
• Participate as a nominated expert in international technical bodies on carbon markets, including aviation and carbon markets 
• Support the Director of Multilateral Climate Strategy to coordinate EDF preparation and outreach for UNFCCC conferences, including onsite daily staff coordination meetings
• Attend UNFCCC meetings as appropriate, take notes, track follow ups, and debrief meetings
• Help train/mentor junior staff/interns 

Qualifications

• Advanced degree, preferably in environmental science, policy, economics, law, or a related field, or two years of experience with an undergraduate degree
• Demonstrated experience in at least one of the following fields: international climate negotiations, carbon markets, developing country perspectives on low carbon development, aviation and climate change
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to relate easily to policy professionals from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds; an excellent listener and fast learner
• Demonstrated ability to conduct rigorous research and analysis
• Demonstrated ability to effectively synthesize and communicate technical and policy findings in a clear and concise manner to colleagues internally and to external non-technical audiences (written and oral communication skills)
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently with broad strategic guidance, as well as in support of and in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams located in multiple offices and time zones
• Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks, priorities, and deadlines concurrently
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and detail-orientation; experience coordinating team members in preparation for key events is a plus
• Additional language(s) other than English a plus
• Position will require up to 20% travel