Campaigner

Overview

Environment Illinois is seeking an entry-level Campaign Associate to help lead campaigns to protect pollinators and other wildlife.

Illinois is home to a diverse range of wildlife and habitats, but many species and habitats are s are key pollinators, from home gardens to wild meadows to agricultural fields. The rusty patched bumblebee has disappeared across nearly 90% of its range and is listed as a state endangered species in Illinois.

• Build powerful coalitions
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  Reach out to a broad range of organizations across the political spectrum to demonstrate support for our campaign goals.
• Earn traditional media and social media attention
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  Organize news conferences and write opinion pieces. Build a following on social media for the campaign.
• Organize events and work with volunteers
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  Organize webinars, community events and public meetings. Recruit organizations and members of the public to attend and participate.
• Lobby elected officials
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  Meet with decision makers—from city council members to state legislators—to advocate for campaign goals. When a critical vote is happening, work to demonstrate the support built on the ground to help line up the votes needed to win.
• Research and write persuasive campaign materials
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  Catalog and analyze data relevant to the issue and policy proposals to help influence public debate and earn media attention for the cause.
• Recruit new people to your team
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  Help build the team by recruiting volunteers, interns and full-time staff.
• Run a grassroots campaign office each summer
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  Run a campaign office for the summer, knocking on doors to raise funds to support campaigns, build the organization and membership, and help build critical and timely grassroots support. Responsibilities include meeting fundraising goals and managing a team of paid staff. You may be assigned to a different office location for the summer and should be flexible to move.

Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. Training is provided on advocacy and organizing skills, with oversight by an experienced advocate. Ideal candidates will have:

• Passion for the environment and using grassroots organizing to win campaigns
• Top-notch writing and public speaking skills
• An eagerness to learn
• Organizing experience, including building campus or community groups

The target annual compensation for this entry-level position is $38,250-$39,500. Environment Illinois offers an excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long-term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.

Chicago, IL

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis for a summer 2026 start timeline. Fill out our online application: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-88635e

Check out 10 reasons: /

Environment Illinois is part of Environment America. Environment America has one mission: to protect the natural world.

We advocate ideas and actions to guide our country onto a greener, healthier path. Our network of 30 state environmental groups promotes clean air, clean water, clean energy, wildlife and open spaces, and a livable climate. Our members put grassroots support behind our research, public education, advocacy and litigation.

Nothing is more important to our future than facing this fact:
Infinite economic growth on a finite planet is neither wise nor possible. We must shift from deplete to preserve, from disposable to sustainable, from “never enough” to “enough.” Together, our staff, members and other supporters are committed to winning changes that allow nature to thrive and our children to live healthier, more enriching lives.

Environment Illinois and Environment America are part of The Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit  for things you should know about our network when you apply.

Environment Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.

Please note:

Do not use AI to help draft your cover letter or responses to our application questions. We want to know how you think and write.