Fisheries Policy Specialist, Pacific Region

With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. This leading green group, with programs from Boston to Beijing, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships, and market-based approaches. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents, and contributions, where innovation and a focus on results are a way of life.

Position Overview:

EDF's Oceans Program aims to promote and implement sustainable fishery management for the benefit of the resource, fishermen, and fishing communities. EDF currently seeks a Fisheries Policy Specialist to advance these goals in the Pacific Region.

Specifically, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the successful design and implementation of the West Coast groundfish trawl rationalization program. The success of the program is important, not only for trawl fishermen and the fish species upon which they rely, but also for other fisheries that may look to the Pacific groundfish trawl program as a guide.

The Fisheries Policy Specialist will be based in EDF's San Francisco office and will work under the supervision of the West Coast Deputy Regional Director.

Responsibilities:

The Fisheries Policy Specialist, Pacific Region, will perform the following and other duties as assigned:

• Facilitate the inclusion and thoughtful development of Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) trailing amendments such as modification of closed areas, development and establishment of cooperative fishing structures, and development of criteria for an "adaptive management program" to ensure the rationalization program meets the triple bottom line.
• Work with industry, fishery managers, and other stakeholders to streamline management costs and remove unnecessary regulatory artifacts of trip limit management from the Groundfish Fishery Management Plan.
• Promote the development and use of excluder gear and other innovative fishing technology and practices to avoid unintended catch of constraining species and minimize bottom impacts.
• Work with industry and certification/rating/eco-labeling agencies to enhance market opportunities where available.
• Communicate EDF objectives and strategies to the industry, PFMC, and other parties.
• Engage in legislative education and outreach efforts when required.
• Build and maintain relationships with fishermen, regulators, legislators, and other parties.
• Generally support the Pacific Ocean team's goals and objectives in the region.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate will have the following minimum qualifications:

• 3+ years of related advocacy work experience
• Graduate degree or equivalent professional experience in science, policy, economics, or law in areas related to environmental or marine resources policy, aquatic sciences, environmental sciences, or related fields
• Strong understanding of state and federal policymaking and political processes
• Understanding of business, environmental, financial, scientific, and other issues related to creating and maintaining sustainable fisheries
• Demonstrated excellence in managing both people and projects
• Excellent analytic and written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to successfully negotiate alliances and broker consensus among disparate groups with, at times, conflicting priorities
• Ability to recognize and build on market and strategic opportunities
• Ability to work with a variety of parties, including government agencies, grassroots organizations, and private firms within strategic coalitions
• Demonstrated history as a self-starter with the ability to think strategically while effectively functioning as part of a larger program team

Compensation: EDF offers a benefits package and competitive salary that is commensurate with experience. Ideally, the Fisheries Policy Specialist will be able to start immediately. This position will be located in San Francisco, California.

To Apply:

The position will remain open until filled. Interested candidates should follow this link to submit a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements. CEA Recruiting is assisting EDF with this search. Please direct all applications and inquiries to CEA Recruiting.

Environmental Defense Fund is an equal opportunity employer. EDF's Diversity Mission Statement can be viewed here.
 
CEA Recruiting works with leading environmental nonprofits, foundations, and businesses to recruit top talent and design effective organizational staffing strategies. For more information, visit CEA Recruiting.