Staff Scientist/Investigator

San Francisco Baykeeper is seeking a water quality scientist to play a lead role in pursuing our mission to safeguard San Francisco Bay from pollution. As the Bay's most effective advocate for 20 years, Baykeeper's highly skilled staff uses science, advocacy and litigation to strengthen and enforce clean water laws to keep pollution out of the Bay.

Responsibilities:

Policy/Advocacy: approximately 50%

• Review current scientific and technical literature to understand factors affecting ecosystem stress.
• Track and assess scientific aspects of water quality policies and permits at regional and state levels (i.e., providing written analysis of NPDES permits, EIRs, ESA Biological opinions, 303(d) listings, etc).
• Advocate through both written comments and oral testimony for sound science and strong regulatory policy before regulatory agencies and in legal proceedings.
• Write position papers and scientific content for website, press communications, newsletters and public outreach materials.
• Serve as a credible scientific source for media interactions.

Enforcement/Investigation: approximately 30%

• Assist attorneys in investigating, developing and pursuing new enforcement actions.
• Design and manage Bay-monitoring programs to further advocacy and enforcement goals.
• Manage pollution hotline program and response (including field investigation and enforcement).
• Assist senior staff in planning, pursuing and evaluating long-term strategies to improve health of Estuary.

Management: approximately 20%

• Manage Baykeeper boat program and skippers.
• Manage on-site aquatic microbiology lab.
• Supervise interns and volunteers; manage entry-level staff.
• Cultivate partnerships with scientists and policy experts at non-governmental organizations, regulatory agencies, and educational institutions.

Qualifications: 

• Advanced degree in related science with strong background in ecology and water quality;
• 2-3 years of post-graduate experience in relevant field, practiced policy advocate, familiarity with water quality issues and clean water laws;
• ability to manage volunteer-based monitoring programs;
• desire to conduct fieldwork and investigations on the ground and on the water;
• excellent interpersonal communication, public speaking and writing skills;
• good judgment and ability to successfully manage multiple deadlines;
• strong managerial experience with interest in taking a leadership role in a collaborative, visionary and highly effective organization;
• flexibility and good sense of humor with a demonstrated passion for Baykeeper's mission to protect the Bay.

Compensation: This position offers a competitive non-profit salary and an outstanding benefits package.

Deadline to apply: November 2, 2009.

To Apply: 

Please email a cover letter, resume, short writing sample, and 3 references, subject line "YOUR LAST NAME, Staff Scientist." Only complete applications will be considered, and only those selected for interviews will be contacted - no phone inquiries please.