CAREERS AT IEC
Fight for Our Future
In 1975, our founders created the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) to tackle the biggest environmental issues facing Illinois. Organizations and environmentalists came together, strengthening our community’s voice in the Illinois General Assembly.
Today, our staff are part of that legacy—leaders in an environmental movement stronger than ever in our state’s history. Along the way, we’ve helped win countless policy victories protecting our air, water, land, and communities at the local, state, and federal levels.
Join IEC's Team
At IEC, you’ll build relationships with decision-makers, our affiliate members, and our climate and conservation partners to build power for transformative environmental policy. We’re always looking for folks with unique perspectives and experiences to bring innovative ideas to our movement and our team.
IEC Internships
IEC’s internship program showcases Illinois’ robust network within the climate and environmental movement. Our goal is to ensure the next generation of leaders has a full understanding of how stakeholders work together to advance strong pro-environment policy in Illinois. Interns receive on-the-job experience in coalition building, environmental education, and policy advocacy.
Volunteer with IEC
Become an IEC Lobby Day Leader
IEC is always looking for experienced individuals to help our Lobby Days run smoothly. Volunteer to join the team as a Lobby Captain or Bus Captain. Check here for 2026 opportunities during the legislative session.
IEC Young Professionals Board
IEC’s Young Professionals Board engages and organizes Illinois’ next generation of environmental leaders. Help grow our environmental movement. Learn more about the YP Board.
Equal Opportunity Employer
IEC/IECEF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, gender expression or identity, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, veteran status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, religion, pregnancy, certain arrest or criminal history records, homelessness and use of lawful products outside of work during non-working hours or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Equity, Allyship, and Powerbuilding Values
IEC/IECEF is always working to ensure that everyone on our team feels engaged and supported in all areas of the organization’s operations as we work to become a fully inclusive, multicultural, and anti-racist organization. We are only as powerful as the people in our movement and those we serve. Building power for people and our environment in Illinois requires us to actively combat social and political power dynamics that disenfranchise marginalized communities across a broad range of issues beyond those that fall squarely within traditional environmental policy. When marginalized communities are empowered, environmental protections become more possible. Thus we are called to stand in solidarity as allies with those fighting for justice and to strengthen our democratic institutions where power drives policy change.