Wild Rivers Program Director

WildEarth Guardians is a Santa Fe-based conservation non-profit committed to protecting and restoring the wildlands, wildlife and wild rivers of the American West.

Position Overview: 

The Wild Rivers Program Director will direct WildEarth Guardians' priority campaign to protect and restore the Rio Grande, ensure that river management throughout the American Southwest complies with all state and federal laws including the Endangered Species Act and Clean Water Act, expand the base of supporters for river flow protection in the Southwest, and outreach to new allies.  The program director will work closely with the Executive Director.

This position is based out of WildEarth Guardians' Santa Fe office.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop and implement a variety of legal and political strategies for WildEarth Guardians' campaigns and projects to protect and secure flows in the Rio Grande.
• Evaluate and critique federal and state water policies that deplete water flows and impair rivers in New Mexico and throughout the Southwest.
• Build and maintain close relationships with citizen activists, public officials, New Mexico's congressional delegation, business allies, diverse allied constituencies, and the media.
• Author electronic outreach including mass emails, social media posting, and blogging.
• Recruit and activate supporters and volunteers on priority campaign efforts.
• Support fundraising efforts for the Wild Rivers program and the organization.
• Support the Executive Director.
• As the program secures additional financial support, manage other staff to help implement program goals and objectives.

Qualifications:

Essential qualifications include:

• Passion for protecting rivers in the American West, a demonstrated commitment to conservation advocacy, and a sense of humor.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in western water law and program development and/or a strong background in water science, river ecology and water policy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be well organized.
• Ability to multi-task and manage short- and long-term deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail, problem solving, and trouble shooting skills.
• Basic computer skills including basic database management.
• Ability to work effectively with a diversity of people and constituencies.

Additional desirable qualifications include:

• Graduate of law school or masters degree in biodiversity protection or natural resources.
• Knowledge of conservation and quality of life issues and New Mexico and Southwestern politics.
• Experience with event and activity logistics and planning.

Special Job Requirements:

Some travel around New Mexico and expect flexible work hours, including some weekend and evening hours.

Compensation: Salary is $42,000 to $48,000 DOE plus vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and exceptional work environment.

To Apply:

Please send inquiries and applications.  Applications should include cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample and must be received by June 15. 

WildEarth Guardians
516 Alto Street
Santa Fe, NM 87501

WildEarth Guardians is an equal opportunity employer.