Director, Western Water Policy

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

TITLE: Director, Western Water Policy
DEPARTMENT: Conservation
LOCATION:  Washington, DC

ABOUT AMERICAN RIVERS: American Rivers is the leading national organization fighting for clean water and healthy rivers. For almost 40 years we have protected and restored rivers, scoring victories for communities, wildlife, and future generations.  American Rivers has offices in Washington, DC and nationwide and more than 100,000 supporters and volunteers. Visit www.americanrivers.org,www.facebook.com/americanrivers and www.twitter.com/americanrivers.

JOB SUMMARY: The Director focuses on implementing the goals and objectives of the organization’s Water Supply Program and related efforts. The initial focus of this position will be on the Colorado River and the Director will coordinate closely with coalition partners within that basin to achieve specific federal policy outcomes that transform water management and improve ecosystem health. The Director is responsible for the development, and advancement of administrative and legislative policies that foster sustainable management of the Colorado River basin and ensure environmental flows, estuary health, and strong river-based economies. The Director represents the organization in interactions with Members of Congress, relevant government agencies and other decision-makers, as well as serving as a principle liaison in relationships with other organizations engaged in the Colorado River and western water policy in Washington, DC. The Director is also responsible for organizing meetings and events about progressive western water management, focusing in the Colorado River basin and coordinating with American Rivers’ field staff throughout the West as well as other partner organizations. The Director contributes to the development and achievement of the Organization’s short-, mid-, and long-term programmatic, administrative and development goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with in-house staff and key partners to develop and advocate for progressive and sustainable western water management policies and practices, focused in the Colorado River basin.
• Coordinate with progressive water management efforts in other parts of the country, including American Rivers’ staff in the Rockies, California, and the Pacific Northwest.
• Build and maintain relationships with strategic partners, stakeholders, and policymakers, including conservation organizations, Members of Congress, government agencies, and others.
• Serve as the face of AR by attending relevant conferences and speaking at events.
• Work with American Rivers’ Science and Technical Advisory Committee, local and regional partners, and other stakeholders to build awareness of and support for sustainable water management and ecosystem recovery in the Colorado River basin with federal decision makers.
• Assist in the production of online materials, op-eds, press releases and other media pieces.
• Support state and local level policy work as needed.
• Assist in raising funds to support a thriving program and maintain positive relationships with foundation, corporate, and individual donors, and the board of directors.
• Maintain excellent relations with other Program staff, Senior Director and Vice President for Conservation.

EXPERIENCE, COMPETENCIES, AND EDUCATION:

• Advanced degree in policy, law, natural or physical science, or other related disciplines.
• Minimum of six years of experience working in the area of federal natural resource policy or management.
• Experience in western water management and conservation or a related topic preferred.
• Effective advocate with strong oral and written communications skills.
• Strategic thinker; highly organized and able to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Strong political judgment.
• Proven program leadership skills.
• Proven budget management and fundraising skills desired.
• Team player and demonstrated ability to work effectively with colleagues to advance an organization’s broader goals.
• High energy level, self-motivated.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary is commensurate with experience. Full-time employee benefits include health, dental and life insurance, retirement plan, and generous leave time.

APPLICATIONS: Applications will be considered immediately. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter (including salary history) to: American Rivers, Attn: Director, Western Water Policy Position, 1101 14th Street, NW, Suite 1400, Washington, DC 20005; or to: jobs@amrivers.org, with “Director, Western Water Policy” in the subject line. No phone calls please.

American Rivers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.