Community Organizer for Pesticide Watch

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay/Central Coast

Start Date: Position open until filled, preferably by Aug 1, 2011

BACKGROUND
Pesticide use is more widespread than any of us would like to think. Pesticides are used not just in agriculture but in our schools, parks, and lawns. They are known to cause a wide variety of health problems in children, farmers, farm workers, and the general public- from cancer, learning disabilities and sterility to birth defects and asthma. Low income and communities of color are especially hard hit by pesticide misuse and food injustice.

Pesticide Watch Education Fund (PWEF) is a cutting-edge, grassroots, non-profit organization dedicated to community organizing and building power at the local level to turn this toxic tide. We work side-by-side with communities to prevent pesticide exposure, promote local farming and build healthier communities. We provide organizing and strategy assistance to local groups and individuals; serve as a clearinghouse for information on the hazards of pesticides and on their non-toxic alternatives; connect communities with technical experts and local groups in other communities that are working on similar issues. Our sister organization, Pesticide Watch, is a 501 (c)(4) non-profit organization that advocates for local and statewide policy reform on pesticide issues.

JOB DESCRIPTION
The organizer will report to the state director who splits time between Sacramento and San Francisco. Primary responsibilities include:

* Community Organizing. Work with 2-5 of existing community-based groups as well as 5-10 individuals and others interested in starting new community groups to tackle pesticide use,. Help these groups plan and execute winning campaigns. Train community members in volunteer recruitment, leadership development, working with the media, coalition building, campaign planning, and other organizing skills. Work with local groups to research and develop policies and materials necessary for local efforts. Work for justice while taking on some of the largest chemical companies in the world. Work with sustainable agriculture groups and other experts to develop new strategies for communities to make a difference on pesticide issues locally and sound policies that support local, safe, and healthy agriculture.

* Outreach/Public Education. Build relationships with local media and serve as a pesticide expert on related stories.. Build coalitions with environmental, justice, public health and food groups across the Sacramento Region or Monterey Bay that can serve as resources for community groups. Develop fact sheets and reports related to pesticide and healthy food issues.

* Fundraising. Work with the State Director to develop and implement a fundraising strategy, including grants and grassroots fundraising opportunities, major donor development and house parties. Fundraising is a critical component of this job.

LOCATION
Central Coast, CA or San Francisco, CA

QUALIFICATIONS
* At least two years of grassroots organizing or community organizing experience
* Dedication to community-based activism as well as protection of public health and the environment
* Strong communication skills
* Ability to take initiative and work with minimal supervision
* Spanish-English bilingual required
* Familiarity with sustainable agriculture and pesticide issues preferred
* Fundraising experience preferred
* Personal car ownership preferred

SALARY & BENEFITS
Salary for this position depends on years of relevant experience, education of the applicant and past work experience. A benefits package includes health care coverage, educational loan assistance, a retirement plan, paid vacation and sick days, parental leave, and a dependent care assistance program. Opportunities for advancement, travel, and additional training are available.

APPLICATION
Position is open until filled. Please send a cover letter and resume to:

Paul S. Towers
State Director
Pesticide Watch Education Fund
1107 9th Street, Ste 601
Sacramento, CA 95814
Info@PesticideWatch.org