Description

Position Objectives: 

We’re looking for a highly motivated person to drive PETA’s local outreach and public relations efforts to improve animal welfare – focusing primarily on “backyard” dogs – in our service areas in Virginia and North Carolina. This liaison engages with members of underserved and marginalized communities, as well as their elected officials, to build positive relationships and provide education about basic companion animal care and empathy. This position works closely with PETA’s fieldwork division, the Community Animal Project.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist and oversee the development and implementation of various projects, including public presentations, designed to educate residents and officials about the harmful effects of keeping dogs continuously chained and/or penned outdoors

• Develop and maintain relationships with community members and groups in areas where dogs are commonly kept outdoors 

• Research and represent PETA at networking opportunities (e.g. annual conferences, receptions, community events, and training and education opportunities) to further PETA's outreach efforts 

• Seek relevant local news media opportunities and conduct interviews (media training is provided)

• Work with PETA’s Marketing Department to seek social media outreach opportunities and to assist with maintenance of PETA’s online resources concerning “backyard” dogs 

• Help local activists pursue improved legislation for dogs in their own communities 

• Review and track cases involving chained dogs in Community Animal Project staff's daily reports

• Assist with fieldwork, doghouse and seasonal straw bedding deliveries, and other departmental tasks, including animal care and feeding

• Participate in the on-call rotation for the local and/or national after-hours emergency line 

• Travel when necessary

• Exercise sound judgment and confidentiality at all times

• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor

Requirements

• Degree in a related field or equivalent experience

• Demonstrated effective public-speaking abilities 

• Proven exceptional written and verbal communication skills

• Proven exceptional research skills

• Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines 

• Superior organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion

• Willingness and ability to be on 24-hour emergency call

• Professional appearance and adherence to a healthy vegan lifestyle 

• Willingness and ability to travel within and outside the US

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis

• Must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid U.S. driver's license, a minimum of three years of driving experience, and a satisfactory driving record

• COVID-19 full vaccination and booster recommended 

• Support for PETA's philosophy and the ability to professionally advocate PETA's positions on issues