Parks Equity Analyst and Advocate

The Coalition for Environment, Equity, and Resilience (CEER) is seeking to hire a Parks Equity Analyst and Advocate who will work to advance park equity within Houston and Harris County. We define park equity as the fair and just distribution of parks, green spaces, and recreational resources across all communities. Our goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or location, have access to quality parks and green spaces.

Despite recent substantial investments in signature parks within the area, many Houstonians and Harris County residents continue to face a lack of access to parks and green spaces or deal with blighted parks within their neighborhoods. A disproportionate number of parks have never received meaningful funding, and this work will make strides toward closing the gap from decades of disinvestment. Furthermore, accessibility to parks and green spaces, as well as the quality and safety of parks, varies widely across the region, the result of yearslong disinvestment in communities.

The Parks Equity Analyst and Advocate will report to the Executive Director, and meet monthly with a campaign committee of community leaders and advocates to guide the work, share insights, and coordinate efforts. This group of leaders will bring a community-centered approach and a wealth of knowledge on engaging with city and county leaders to advance park equity. The Parks Equity Analyst and Advocate will also collaborate with other CEER staff, CEER member organizations, governmental officials, and impacted community members as required to advance the goals of the campaign.

Essential Functions

The primary duties of the Parks Equity Analyst and Advocate include:

1. Collaborate with community partners and other stakeholders to advocate for park equity.
2. Develop campaign goals in collaboration with the Director, other CEER staff, members, and partners.
3. Engage with the community to understand their needs and preferences related to parks and green spaces.
4. Analyze and review funding options and policies, such as tax exemptions or dedicated funds for parks.
5. Develop and maintain a comprehensive database and spreadsheet documenting parks, green spaces, and related funding data.
6. Map and/or interpret maps of parks and green spaces, considering population density and park quality.
7. Understand and navigate government structures and processes at city, county, and state levels; provide education to others engaging in advocacy; build relationships with city and county officials.
8. Develop case studies of successful park equity initiatives and coordinate efforts across various entities.
9. Contribute to grant reporting, data collection, and other duties as necessary.

Professional Qualifications:

• 7-10 years experience in research, policy analysis, and advocacy experience with a record of integrating meaningful community engagement in campaigns for social change.
• Strong analytical skills to understand and interpret budgets, policies, and funding mechanisms.
• Strong computer skills and proficient in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and data analysis.
• Knowledge of government structures and processes across different levels; familiarity with park management and maintenance practices.
• Excellent communication and advocacy skills and the ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships with community organizations, government officials, and residents.
• A strong understanding of public policy and the environmental and/or civil rights movements preferred.
• Ability and willingness to work nontraditional hours, including evenings and weekends as required. CEER has a flex time policy and a supportive and empowering work culture.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher, or equivalent experience required.
• Access to reliable transportation.