ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Environmental Justice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

myHR Partner

Organizing Director

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

We here at The Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition (MEJC) are working hard to achieve a clean ... Our Organizing Director will lead our efforts in mobilizing grassroots support, implement effective ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEnvironmental Justice JobsDirector Environmental Justice Jobs

Director Environmental Justice information

See salary details

$35K

$113.4K

$189K

How much do director environmental justice jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director environmental justice in the United States is $113,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $159,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Environmental Justice when implementing community-focused initiatives?

A Director of Environmental Justice often encounters challenges such as building trust with historically marginalized communities, aligning diverse stakeholder interests, and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Successfully implementing community-focused initiatives requires careful listening, transparent communication, and fostering partnerships between government agencies, nonprofits, and local residents. Additionally, securing adequate funding and measuring the long-term impact of programs can be demanding but are critical for sustained progress and credibility.

What does a Director of Environmental Justice do?

A Director of Environmental Justice leads initiatives to ensure that environmental policies and practices fairly protect all communities, especially those historically impacted by pollution and environmental hazards. They develop and implement strategies to address environmental inequalities, collaborate with community leaders and policymakers, and oversee programs that promote equitable access to clean air, water, and land. This role also involves advocacy, public education, and monitoring compliance with environmental regulations to ensure justice and fairness for marginalized groups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Environmental Justice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Environmental Justice, you need expertise in environmental policy, community engagement, and a relevant advanced degree such as in environmental studies, public policy, or law. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks, data analysis tools, GIS mapping, and certifications like LEED or environmental compliance are often required. Exceptional leadership, cultural competence, and advocacy skills help build trust and mobilize diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial to effectively champion equity, influence policy, and drive impactful environmental outcomes in affected communities.

What is the difference between Director Environmental Justice vs Environmental Program Manager?

AspectDirector Environmental JusticeEnvironmental Program Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Public Policy, or related fields; often requires experience in environmental advocacy or policyBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Management, or related fields; certification in project management beneficial
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, policy development, stakeholder engagement, often in government or nonprofit sectorsProject planning, implementation, coordination, often in government agencies, NGOs, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government agencies, nonprofits, advocacy groups focusing on environmental justice issuesCommon in environmental agencies, consulting firms, and organizations managing environmental projects

The Director Environmental Justice typically holds a higher strategic and leadership role, focusing on policy and advocacy, while the Environmental Program Manager handles the day-to-day management of specific projects. Both roles require relevant environmental credentials and often work within similar sectors, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Director Environmental Justice jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Environmental Justice jobs? Cities with the most Director Environmental Justice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Justice jobs? The most popular types of Environmental Justice jobs are:
What states have the most Director Environmental Justice jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Environmental Justice jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Environmental Justice jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Environmental Justice jobs are:
Director Environmental Justice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Environmental Justice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,430 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Little Village Environmental Justice Organization - Executive Director

Maneva Group

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

View and Download Full Position Profile (English)


Ver y Descargar el Perfil Completo del Puesto (Espaรฑol)


Organizational Overview: Little Village Environmental Justice Organization

Founded by community residents and organizers, Little Village Environmental Justice Organization (LVEJO) advances environmental justice through community-driven organizing, advocacy, coalition building, youth leadership development, food justice initiatives, and policy change rooted in the lived experiences of frontline communities.


LVEJO works at the intersection of environmental justice, public health, food access, and community empowerment. The organization has led transformative campaigns that have reshaped the environmental and political landscape of Chicago, including the closure of the Crawford Coal Plant, the transformation of contaminated land into public green space and community assets such as La Villita Park, and advocacy efforts that expanded public transit access along the 31st Street corridor. Through initiatives focused on environmental health, water justice, urban agriculture, youth leadership, and land reclamation, LVEJO has become one of the most respected and influential environmental justice organizations in the region.


Position Summary: Executive Director

The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive leader responsible for the overall strategic direction, organizational leadership, financial sustainability, and community impact of LVEJO. Reporting to the Board of Directors and working closely with staff, community members, coalition partners, funders, and public officials, the ED will guide the organization through its next phase of organizational stabilization, strategic growth, and renewed community-centered organizing.


The ED will lead both internal operations and external engagement, ensuring that LVEJO maintains strong financial health, operational transparency, effective people management, and mission-aligned programmatic impact. This leader will serve as the organizationโ€™s primary external representative, strengthening relationships with community stakeholders, philanthropic partners, coalition allies, elected officials, and movement organizations across Chicago and beyond. Equally important, the ED will work collaboratively with staff to cultivate a strong, values-driven organizational culture that empowers leadership at all levels, elevates staff voices, and supports the continued growth and development of the team as trusted advocates and leaders in the environmental justice movement.

The Executive Director will inherit an organization with a proud legacy of advocacy victories and deep community trust, while also helping the organization navigate a critical period of transformation.


Location, Compensation and Benefits

This position is based in Chicago, Illinois and requires a strong in-person community presence, including regular evening and weekend engagement throughout the Little Village community. The salary for this position is $150,000 - $160,000 with a generous benefits package.