Regional Policy Specialist in Chicago, Illinois at Openlands

The Regional Policy Specialist advances Openlands’ mission by supporting policy and regulatory reforms, increasing public investment in conservation, and expanding regional advocacy for nature. This role focuses on building local power and engaging in legislative processes to support Openlands’ place-based, regionally focused policy initiatives.

Working both internally and externally, the Regional Policy Specialist cultivates meaningful relationships with diverse communities, local leaders, and residents to shape and sustain broad, authentic support for conservation policies and land protection efforts led by Openlands.

This position has a primary geographic focus on Will County—including Joliet, Wilmington, and surrounding communities—while also supporting policy and coalition-building efforts across Openlands’ broader service area.

This is a full-time, exempt, hybrid position reporting to the Director of Policy.

This position is budgeted to start on or about August 1, 2026.

Essential Functions:

 Monitor legislation and public policy developments relevant to Openlands’ work and keep staff informed of key updates.

 Collaborate across departments to develop advocacy strategies, policy priorities, and messaging that advance Openlands’ mission and projects. Provide support in drafting position statements and action plans as needed.

 Advocate on behalf of Openlands by engaging with state, county, and local officials, ensuring compliance with all applicable lobbying rules and regulations.

Lead on-the-ground organizing and coalition-building efforts, including regular attendance and representation at community meetings and tabling at local events, to strengthen support for policy initiatives.

 Build and strengthen partnerships by actively building and participating in coalitions and collaborating with subject matter experts to advance shared priorities.

 Represent Openlands in local and regional conservation and environmental forums, including boards, committees, and panels, to further organizational goals.

 Empower community members and stakeholders to advocate for policy initiatives by developing advocacy materials, sharing campaign information, and leading trainings as needed.

 Develop and maintain relationships with elected and public officials across all levels of government, increasing awareness of Openlands’ work and policy priorities.

 Engage in local, regional, state, and national conservation networks to elevate Openlands’ presence and influence.

 Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

 Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, planning, law, or a related field required; Master’s degree or JD preferred.

 4–5 years of experience in public policy, government relations, or a legislative setting; experience with local, Will County, state, or federal government is a plus.

 Strong understanding of public affairs, government structures, and legislative processes.

 Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legislative tracking and advocacy tools

 Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills, with strong project management capabilities.

 Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in coalition settings and manage cross-functional initiatives.

 Valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle.

Compensation: 

Salary range: $60,000–$65,000, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including: Health, life, and disability insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% employer contribution. Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.  

 Work Environment: 

Office is ADA accessible. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and scanners. Employee is regularly required to talk, hear, see, and communicate effectively via computer. This role requires manual labor- standing, bending, crouching, lifting. 

Ability to perform duties in a variety of outdoor conditions and weather, including heat, cold, rain, and snow. 

 Smoke- and drug-free environment. 

 Openlands is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to employ qualified individuals based on individual merit. Openlands does not discriminate against any individual with respect to the terms and conditions of employment based on that individual’s race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, housing status, or any other non-merit factor protected under state, local or federal laws.  

 Equal Employment Opportunity applies to all personnel actions such as recruiting, hiring, compensation, benefits, promotions, training, transfer, termination, and opportunities for training. Openlands is committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.