Senior Water Policy Advisor

Salary Range: Range commensurate upon experience: Starting salary $83,100 annually
Reports to: Director of Environmental Policy

MISSION:  For more than 60 years, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has been a leading environmental advocacy organization dedicated to protecting Southwest Florida’s water, land, wildlife, and future.

ABOUT: The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a leading environmental conservation organization dedicated to protecting the water, land and wildlife which make our home such a special place. For more than 60 years, the Conservancy has worked with community leaders, businesses, partner agencies and individuals to find a sensible balance between the demands of a growing population and the preservation of our natural treasures.

PURPOSE OF JOB: Conservancy of Southwest Florida seeks a dynamic and strategic professional to serve as the Senior Water Policy Advisor. The role focuses on providing primary leadership and technical expertise for Conservancy water resources policy and Everglades Restoration, focusing on Western Everglades projects. The selected candidate will provide technical expertise, lead advocacy efforts, and build meaningful partnerships to drive impactful environmental change. If you’re passionate about shaping policies, working collaboratively, and delivering tangible outcomes, this is your opportunity.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Advocacy and Representation:

• Act as the primary spokesperson and technical expert on water resources, serving as a liaison between the Conservancy, the community, elected officials, media, and stakeholder groups.
• Advocate for sustainable water resource policies at local, state, and federal levels through lobbying, education, and relationship-building.
• Represent the Conservancy at public meetings, hearings, and governmental gatherings, providing expert testimony and media commentary on relevant issues.
Policy Development and Analysis:
• Monitor and analyze issues related to water resources, Everglades Restoration projects and the Greater Western Everglades ecosystem.
• Develop evidence-based policy recommendations through technical research, and expert collaboration.
• Create white papers, comment letters, position statements, and advocacy materials to support policy initiatives.
• Provide input on legislative advocacy priorities and strategies.

Program Management and Leadership:

• In collaboration with the Environmental Policy team, provide input to inform the Director of Policy’s hiring decisions.
• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of water resource-related projects and programs, including consultant management.
• Oversee and review staff work related to water policy, providing mentorship, technical guidance, and clear direction to meet organizational goals.
• Ensure quality control and alignment of staff deliverables with the Conservancy’s mission and objectives.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with governmental and non-governmental entities, advocates, experts, and partner organizations.
• Participate in environmental committees and boards to represent the Conservancy’s interests and advance shared goals.
• Assist in developing marketing and communication materials to promote policy initiatives across various platforms.

Technical and Data Analysis:

• Conduct comprehensive data analysis to inform policy recommendations and advocacy efforts.
• Compile records, reports, and expert materials to support the Conservancy’s litigation and advocacy strategies.
• Prepare grant applications and reports to secure funding for key initiatives.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental policy, environmental studies, natural sciences, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent professional experience in a relevant field will also be considered. A Master’s degree or in a related discipline is a plus but not required.
• At least five years of experience in a related field with a Master’s degree, or seven years of relevant professional experience without a Master’s degree. Diverse pathways to acquiring expertise, including work in advocacy, research, fieldwork, or policy development, are valued.
• Familiarity with Florida’s water regulations, ecosystem dynamics, and wetland restoration is highly desired. Candidates with experience in hydrology, environmental policy, or similar disciplines are encouraged to apply.
• Experience with Everglades restoration or related wetland policy issues is beneficial but not mandatory. We welcome candidates with transferable skills and knowledge from similar ecosystems or policy areas.
• Experience working in or collaborating with non-profit organizations, community-based groups, or governmental agencies is helpful.
• Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or similar tools is a plus but not a strict requirement.
• Candidates eager to learn and apply technical tools are encouraged to apply.

SKILLS AND COMPENTENCIES

• Strategic Problem-Solving: Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage complex projects, and adapt to evolving priorities with creativity and resourcefulness.
• Technical Expertise: Strong background in analyzing environmental data, regulations, and reports to craft informed policy recommendations and articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Interpersonal Communication: Exceptional ability to engage with stakeholders, lead public outreach efforts, and represent the Conservancy with professionalism and enthusiasm.
• Organizational Familiarity: Understanding of non-profit organizational structures and goals.
• Commitment to Excellence: Passion for biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship, and achieving sustainable outcomes.

Data Analysis and Communication: Strong ability to understand and analyze complex scientific water data, translating findings into clear, actionable insights for shareholders and stakeholders.

Certificates, Licenses and Registrations

• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
This job description recognizes that reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role. The job entails:

• Regularly required to sit, stand and walk.
• Lift/move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• May spend time in the field, and experience exposure to Florida outdoor weather conditions.
• Use of hands for various tasks.
• Visual abilities include close and color vision, along with peripheral and depth perception.
• Noise level in the work environment is typically moderate.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Conservancy is an equal employment opportunity employer and, in making employment decisions, does not discriminate against any person because of race, creed, color, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual or gender orientation, veteran status or any other category protected by federal, state or local law. All such discrimination is unlawful and prohibited by the Conservancy.

Date Posted: 03/26/2025