Administrative Assistant

New Orleans, LA

DEPARTMENT: Conservation Programs
REPORTS TO: Deputy Director, Gulf Restoration Program
DURATION: Full-Time

GULF RESTORATION PROGRAM:
Ocean Conservancy's Gulf Restoration program is a dynamic initiative focused on the restoration and enhancement of the Gulf of Mexico following the BP Deepwater Horizon oil disaster. Ocean Conservancy has provided strategic leadership in addressing key threats facing the Gulf of Mexico for over two decades. Key accomplishments include successfully promoting the use of fishing gear that reduced incidental taking of endangered Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, transforming regional fishery management systems to focus on science based management plans that end overfishing and restore depleted fish populations, and launching the largest global volunteer event of its kind—the International Coastal Cleanup. We are now combining our regional expertise with a seasoned team of Exxon Valdez oil spill experts to ensure the effective restoration and enhancement of the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem and its dependent communities. The Administrative Assistant will serve as critical support for our team of professionals to ensure a science-based and community supported restoration and enhancement effort by managing the operations of our Gulf Restoration Center and leveraging strong communications, effective policies, and innovative partnerships. Ocean Conservancy envisions a healthy and productive Gulf of Mexico that supports resilient ocean ecosystems and coastal communities.

BASIC FUNCTION:
Provides administrative and project support to the Deputy Director, Gulf Restoration Program by managing and coordinating office operations at the Gulf Restoration Center in New Orleans, LA, and supports Ocean Conservancy's Gulf of Mexico work, including fisheries, restoration and program outreach.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides project and administrative support for the Deputy Director and Gulf Restoration Program staff, including organization and coordination of activities, scheduling appointments and managing the calendar, creating and managing call schedules, managing and tracking deadlines for Gulf Restoration Program projects, creating and maintaining files, editing and proofreading documents, drafting correspondence, faxing and copying; coordinating with DC and other regional staff.
• MManages the New Orleans, LA Gulf Restoration Center facility and logistical support for the Deputy Director of the Gulf Restoration Program.
• Conducts project assignments and research, gathers and analyzes information, prepares presentations and other materials for internal and external audiences, and organizes and conducts events and meetings for the Gulf Restoration Program team.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A highly motivated self-starter with a bachelor's degree in environmental sciences or policy or relevant experience preferred;
• A minimum of two years of administrative experience staffing a multi-disciplinary team with experience in public policy and non-profit organizations preferred;
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication ability to understand and articulate complex issues.

OTHER/PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• A team player who can bring the creativity, energy, discipline and commitment needed to support our restoration goals;
• A high-level performer who remains attentive to details and adheres strictly to deadlines and deliverables while keeping a larger vision in mind;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated success in supporting a team;
• Highly collaborative with an appreciation of the benefit of a multi-disciplinary team approach;
• Personable, passionate, productive, and focused to support accurate and timely analysis, advocacy, products, and positions.

BECOMING AN OCEAN CONSERVANCY TEAM MEMBER:

The Ocean Conservancy offers an excellent benefits package and a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience. We welcome candidates with a dedication to conservation and a commitment to leveraging the power of partnerships for policy change.

Ocean Conservancy staff use and value our resources—time, talent, and money—to achieve powerful gains for the protection of the ocean that sustains all life. We're dedicated to long-term issues, and we create sustainable solutions based on science, not ideology. We see the big picture and offer realistic solutions to protect the ocean and improve our quality of life. Some things about us you should know:

• We provide concrete solutions that lead to high-impact results. These include landmark policies like: protecting sea turtles by mandating Turtle Excluder Devices, the Marine Life Protection Act in California and protection of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
• We stand on the shoulders of more than 35 years of policy expertise, and we have the longest track record defining priorities and translating science into sound, practical policies that protect our oceans.
• Not only do we know science – we know the law. We're recognized across the country for our legal savvy and ability to influence legislation. We create actual policy changes that make a difference.
• We leverage our strong networks and deep connections. We've won the trust of legislators over the years, and our access to key decision makers in Congress allows us to serve as the voice of the ocean in the halls of power. Our grassroots network helps to amplify our voice across the country.
• We recognize that real leadership means cooperation. We know when to stand firm and when to negotiate on behalf of the ocean to achieve lasting victories.
• We're committed to creating long-term change. We continue to monitor legislation and policies long after they fall from the front-page headlines to ensure that vital aspects of ocean life are always protected.

APPLY FOR THE POSITION: If you think you have what it takes to join Ocean Conservancy's team, please send a cover letter speaking to your qualifications and abilities to lead a growing exciting program with your resume and salary expectations to: jobs@oceanconservancy.org and note your name and "Administrative Assistant- GRP #1025" in the subject line.

Ocean Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities and Females are Encouraged to Apply.