The position we’re seeking to fill
The Climate Policy Coordinator will be part of a team led by the NFU’s Director of Climate Crisis Policy and Action. The Climate Policy Coordinator will:
1. Conduct research and analyze data in order to support policy development
Work in collaboration with NFU officials, staff, and Climate Committee members as well as with experts and academics outside the NFU
Research and write evidence-based reports that support and advance NFU policy objectives
Stay informed on national and regional developments in order to brief NFU officials and analyze emerging issues
When appropriate, provide frank and critical feedback to government regarding their programs and policies
Integrate diverse perspectives, including diverse scales of agricultural operations, regional differences, and varying farm types and production methods
Advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in policy development and outcomes
2. Engage with governments to advance the NFU’s goals and objectives regarding agricultural emissions reduction and climate adaptation
Work with NFU staff, officials, and members to design and implement government relations action plans
Support NFU officials in engaging with government officials
Utilize organizing tools to inform and mobilize NFU members on key issues
Support farmers to represent the NFU and participate in government relations
Represent the NFU on government advisory committees
3. Develop communications tools and resources to advance NFU aims
Collaborate in drafting news releases
Distill complex issues into two- and four-page flyers to support education and mobilization
Identify, develop, and implement tools and strategies to advance policy aims
Make presentations to meetings, conferences, and government committees
Help organize and promote the NFU’s webinar series NFUniversity
Assist in other communications processes, as needed
Organize national and regional meetings that bring together climate-focused farmers, academics, researchers, and experts
The candidate we’re seeking
The following qualifications, skills, and experience will support success in this position. If you have many of the following qualifications, we encourage you to apply.
An understanding of federal and provincial government policy landscapes, including policies related to agriculture, climate, GHG emissions reduction, or the environment
An understanding of on-farm agricultural production practices
Experience in researching and writing reports, analyzing data, dealing with journal articles and scientific sources, and synthesizing information
Experience developing, refining, communicating, and advancing policy priorities
Experience organizing farmers or other citizens to advance political aims
Experience in working with farmers and/or agricultural issues
Strong, clear, compelling, and diplomatic verbal and written communication, including a concise writing style
The ability to listen carefully, identify common ground, build consensus, and change direction, where necessary
Well-developed ability to build positive relationships with government officials
Experience in organizing meetings and conferences
Ability to travel in order to attend meetings and conferences
Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks, independently manage workflow, and forward-plan in order to balance and meet overlapping deadlines
A strong commitment to social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion and to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples
A strong commitment to democratic governance structures such as that of the NFU, which promotes the voices and full participation of women, youth, BIPOC farmers, 2SLGBTQ+ farmers, and others
Strong computer skills and an ability to analyze numerical data, prepare graphs, etc.
Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy, conscientiousness, and a deep commitment to evidence-based analysis
Proficiency in both official languages would be an asset
The employment terms we’re offering
This is a full-time position for at least 2.5 years, with significant possibilities for continuation beyond that time (dependent upon funding) and for advancement.
The starting salary is $65,000 to $70,000 per year commensurate with qualifications and experience. Health and dental benefits are also provided. The position offers three weeks of paid vacation per year as well as paid time off between Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
Work location is flexible but a willingness to consider relocating to the Saskatoon area—the location of our National Office—is a strong asset. Regardless of location, some working from home and flexible hours will be offered.
How to apply
To apply for the position please email 1. a cover letter; 2. a resume; 3. references; and 4. an example of your writing style (samples that showcase agricultural, climate-related, or policy-related content preferred) to the Hiring Committee at hiring@nfu.ca using the subject heading “NFU Climate Policy Coordinator Applicant” followed by your name.