Illinois PIRG Climate Solutions Associate

Illinois PIRG Climate Solutions Associate

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Illinois PIRG is hiring an Associate to work on our campaigns for Climate Solutions. Our goal is to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency and other low‑emission solutions that are safer and more affordable for consumers, and to convince decision makers and the public to adopt them.

PIRG has a 50‑year history of consumer advocacy, advancing policy solutions that protect our health, safety and well‑being. As Climate Solutions Associate you will work closely with our state director, coalition partners and volunteers to run campaigns such as shifting from gas to heat homes, increasing energy conservation, and promoting renewable energy.

• Build powerful coalitions: reach out to a broad range of organizations and affected constituency groups across the political spectrum to demonstrate support for our campaign goals.
• Earn traditional and social media attention: organize news conferences, write opinion pieces and build a following for your campaign on social media.
• Organize events and work with volunteers: plan webinars, community events and public meetings; recruit organizations and members of the public to participate.
• Lobby elected officials: meet with decision makers—city council members to state legislators—to make the case for our campaign goals and support critical votes.
• Research and write persuasive campaign materials: catalog and analyze relevant data to influence public debate and media coverage.
• Recruit new people to your team: build the team by recruiting volunteers, interns and full‑time staff.
• Run a grassroots campaign office each summer: knock on doors to raise money for campaigns, build organization and membership, and build timely grassroots support. Manage a team of paid staff and meet fundraising goals.

Entry‑level candidates are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates have:

• Leadership experience and strong writing and public speaking skills.
• Eagerness to learn and a willingness to take ownership of campaigns.
• Organizing experience, including building campus or community groups.

The target annual compensation for this entry‑level position is $38,250–$39,500 in the first year. Illinois PIRG offers a comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental and vision insurance for employees and dependents; time off; commuter benefit program; 401(k) plan with employer match; parental leave; long‑term disability insurance; and possible student‑loan assistance.

Chicago, IL. The position will start in the summer of 2026 and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

We use our 50‑year legacy to influence public policy for the better. Learn more about our reasons for working here at Illinois PIRG Why Work With Us.

Illinois PIRG is part of The Public Interest Network, supporting organizations committed to a better world. Visit core values to learn more.

Illinois PIRG is an equal opportunity employer.

PIRG is an advocate for consumers, advancing solutions to problems that affect our health, safety and well‑being. We champion a marketplace that is honest, transparent, and reduces waste. We consider the impact of new products and technologies on future generations, not just quarterly earnings reports. The true North Star of a successful marketplace is the quality of our lives, not the quantity of “stuff” we consume.