Application Guide

How to Apply for Campaigner, US Fossil Economy

at Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)

🏢 About Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)

CIEL is a unique organization that combines legal expertise with on-the-ground campaigning to confront the expansion of petrochemicals and false climate solutions. Working here means being at the intersection of environmental law, human rights, and justice, with a focus on systemic change rather than incremental reforms.

About This Role

As a Campaigner for the US Fossil Economy, you'll lead efforts to translate complex legal and technical research into accessible materials and strategies that empower movement partners. This role is impactful because you'll directly shape campaigns against petrochemicals, agrochemicals, and carbon capture, influencing policy and public opinion.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a coalition call to align on messaging for an upcoming action, followed by drafting a fact sheet based on a new legal analysis. Afternoon could involve coordinating with partners on a webinar, reviewing campaign metrics, and preparing a social media thread to amplify a report release.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in advocacy campaigning specifically on climate, fossil fuels, or petrochemicals, with at least 3 years of experience.
  • Strong ability to distill technical information (legal, scientific) into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
  • Experienced in coalition coordination and building relationships with partner organizations.
  • Self-starter who can manage multiple priorities independently while collaborating remotely.

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)

1

Highlight specific campaigns you've led or contributed to that targeted petrochemicals, fossil fuels, or false climate solutions like carbon capture.

2

Show examples of how you've translated technical research (e.g., legal briefs, scientific reports) into accessible materials like fact sheets, social media content, or action alerts.

3

Mention any experience working with frontline communities or environmental justice groups, as CIEL emphasizes human rights.

4

Tailor your resume to demonstrate remote collaboration skills and ability to coordinate across time zones.

5

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your past work to CIEL's mission of confronting petrochemical expansion and false solutions.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your commitment to environmental justice and human rights, not just climate change.', "Specific examples of how you've turned technical research into campaign wins.", 'Experience in coalition building and working with diverse partners.', 'Understanding of the petrochemical industry and false climate solutions (e.g., carbon capture, plastic recycling).']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CIEL's recent reports on petrochemicals, plastics, and carbon capture (e.g., 'Fossil Fueling the Climate Crisis').
  • → Understand CIEL's legal cases and campaigns, such as their work on the Green Climate Fund or human rights litigation.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key coalition partners like GAIA, Break Free From Plastic, or frontline groups in Louisiana's Cancer Alley.
  • → Read CIEL's blog posts or press releases to grasp their communication style and key messages.
Visit Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a campaign you led where you translated complex information for a non-expert audience. What was the outcome?
2 How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple campaigns simultaneously?
3 What is your experience with coalition dynamics, and how do you handle disagreements among partners?
4 How do you stay informed about developments in fossil fuel and petrochemical policy?
5 What would be your first 90-day plan in this role to advance CIEL's campaign goals?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on climate change without connecting to petrochemicals or false solutions; CIEL distinguishes itself by targeting the fossil economy beyond just emissions.
  • Avoid generic advocacy language; be specific about your experience with technical translation and coalition work.
  • Don't overlook the remote nature of the role; emphasize your remote work skills and self-motivation.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)!

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