Climate Jobs Institute
The Climate Jobs Institute at LER conducts research to support a just transition to a clean energy future in the State of Illinois, a transition that minimizes job loss, maximizes high-quality job creation, and supports economic development for all. We analyze policies, programs, and activities to meet the increased labor demand in the clean-energy sector and make recommendations to meet this demand in an equitable way.
Careers and Collaborations
| We’re Hiring | Become a CJI Research Assistant or Intern | Collaborate with Us |
| The Climate Jobs Institute is hiring multiple Research Specialists and Senior Research Specialists. Join our team! | Are you a graduate student with an interest in research at the intersection of climate policy, labor, and economic development? Apply to be a research assistant or intern. | The Climate Jobs Institute seeks to collaborate with researchers at the University of Illinois and elsewhere who work in the emerging field of labor, economic development and the clean energy transition. |
Our Work
Established in 2022, the Climate Jobs Institute works to support the State’s clean energy transition. Here are a few of our ongoing projects:
CEJA Implementation Support
CJI provides research and technical assistance to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to support the launch of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act workforce programs.
Organized Labor and Clean Energy Research
CJI is conducting an inventory of the clean energy workforce needs among labor unions in Illinois.
Clean Energy Jobs and Training Analyses
CJI is conducting research to better understand the clean energy job and training needs in Illinois, helping to inform workforce policy and program implementation.
Hazardous Materials Training
Clean energy workers often encounter hazardous materials in their work. The University of Illinois Hazmat Training Program provides extensive hands-on training on topics such as hazard recognition and control, emergency procedures, work practices, and respiration protection. CJI funding provides free Hazmat training for current and prospective contractors.
Share Your Information
Sign up here to receive updates on our work. We’ll share research findings and opportunities for collaboration.