JOB OPPORTUNITY: Black Lung Organizer

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT: Black Lung Organizer
General Description:
The Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center (ACLC) seeks a full-time Black Lung Organizer to join our team in Whitesburg, Kentucky. This is a new position for ACLC.  The Black Lung Organizer will assist regional Black Lung Associations in growing their membership base; will inform former miners and their families about legal changes affecting the black lung benefits program; and will raise awareness about policies related to black lung disease.  The Black Lung Organizer will also provide support for newly forming BLA chapters in the region.  The organizer will work closely with ACLC’s Director and staff, as well as the leadership of the Black Lung Association of Southeast Kentucky, to develop and continue the momentum of local BLA chapters.
ACLC seeks a candidate with basic knowledge of black lung disease, the history of coal mining in the region, and familiarity with community organizing basics. Special consideration will be given to candidates who are from the region and/or have a history of coal mining in their families.
ACLC is a nonprofit law firm based in Whitesburg, Kentucky.  ACLC fights for justice in the coalfields by representing coal miners and their families on issues of black lung and mine safety and by working with grassroots groups and individuals to protect the land and people from misuse and degradation caused by extractive industries. ACLC handles individual cases and engages in strategic litigation and policy work in the areas of mine safety and health, environmental protection and sustainable energy, as well as just economic transition.
Job Location:
Whitesburg, Kentucky plus travel to nearby counties in the region.
Job Duties:
The Black Lung Organizer will be responsible for supporting Black Lung Associations (BLAs) throughout the region on activities prioritized by the Associations, which may include:

• Growing the membership of existing chapters
• Starting new chapters
• Facilitating BLA meetings and conversations among stakeholders in the region
• Communicating with existing and potential BLA members and community supporters through calls, meetings, mailings, and social media
• Informing the BLAs’ legal and policy efforts, including the black lung excise tax and other initiatives
• Providing leadership development and educational initiatives for BLA members
• Planning BLA events, including town halls, rallies, and lobby trips
• Coordinating policy-related efforts among BLAs
• Keeping ACLC staff updated regarding the BLA’s work
• Supporting any relevant black lung work at the ACLC office by working closely with attorneys
• Working closely with ACLC’s Executive Director and Deputy Director

Skills:

• Ability to build relationships easily
• Ability to think strategically
• Self-directed, proactive attitude
• Strong organizational skills
• Policy awareness or willingness to learn
• Meeting facilitation skills
• Knowledge of community organizing basics
• Willingness to drive a car across the region, plus access to a car is required (mileage will be reimbursed)

Education:
ACLC seeks a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree. If you feel you are qualified for this position but do not hold a Bachelor’s degree, please apply.
Salary:
Salary is commensurate with experience. The salary range is $30,000 – $35,000. ACLC provides a generous benefits package to all full-time employees.
 
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume with three references to jobs@aclc.org. For more information about ACLC’s staff and its work, please visit our website: www.aclc.org.
 
Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.