Vacancy: Director of CIEL Climate Change Program
Since 1989, the Center for International Environmental Law's Climate Change Program has advised key participants in the international policy arena on how to work towards an effective, enforceable emissions reduction framework, and how to deal with the impacts of global warming. Now, CIEL seeks a gifted, visionary attorney to carry on the work and further development of this key CIEL program as its director.

The Climate Change attorney will join CIEL's team of lawyers and staff, including well-known experts in critical areas of international law, who are dedicated to using principles of ecology and justice to strengthen international environmental law, protect the global environment, and promote environmental justice and sustainable development.

CIEL's Climate change Program currently has three main strategic emphases:

  1. Participating in the development of the post-2012 climate change treaty regime;

  2. Using a human rights approach to focus attention on the human dimension of climate change and build political will to deal with it; and

  3. Identifying and building governance structures at the local, national, regional and global levels that can facilitate adaptation to climate change.


This is an exceptional opportunity to work with the world's premiere international environmental law NGO on one of the most important and complex issues to ever confront humankind.

The attorney will report directly to the President and will:

  • Develop and implement CIEL strategies, objectives, and activities for the Climate Change Program;

  • Provide advice and support to, and collaborate with, non-governmental organizations, government ministries and missions (especially from developing countries), and intergovernmental organizations;

  • Advocate CIEL positions and policies; and

  • Fundraise in support of the Climate Change Program, in collaboration with the President and the Director of Development.


Applicants should have:

  • A minimum of a juris doctor (JD) or equivalent legal qualification;

  • Expertise in public international law and institutions;

  • Experience in and understanding of international climate change law and policies;

  • Superb communication skills in spoken and written English, including the ability to render clear, concise, and persuasive legal advice and analysis (fluency in a second language is preferred); and

  • Exceptional leadership and advocacy skills, the ability to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, and a demonstrated commitment to the public interest.

Salary will be commensurate with experience, and includes an excellent benefits package. Entry into service will be as soon as possible.

Applicants should send a cover letter, CV, writing sample, and three references to info@ciel.org. Applications will be considered as they are received, so applicants are encouraged to send their materials as soon as possible.

CIEL is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diversity of all types. For more information about CIEL and its activities, please visit www.ciel.org.


This page last modified on 17 February 2008.