The Coastal Wetlands Associate contributes to the implementation of the coastal wetlands strategy and management across The Nature Conservancy’s Global Ocean team and regional units. The coastal wetlands strategy aims to protect and restore the world’s wetlands through scientific research, site- based demonstrations and policy reform. By protecting and restoring the world’s wetlands, we can address climate change while also protecting healthy lands and waters and improving communities and economies.
This position reports directly to the Global Wetlands Strategy Lead and the preferred location is based in our World Office in Arlington, VA. Location is negotiable within already existing TNC office. There is no relocation or visa assistance available for this position.
The Coastal Wetlands Associate supports the wetlands strategy through as the project manager and will develop as a topical expert and will serve as a resource to field teams on coastal wetlands with a focus on community-led conservation, livelihoods and ecosystem services. S/He liaises with other TNC staff, notably field colleagues, as well as external partners, to help drive the implementation of the coastal wetlands strategy and associated projects in the places where TNC works. S/He assists the Wetlands Strategy Lead and team to coordinate with TNC communications, marketing and philanthropy staff on issues related to coastal wetlands and helps ensure that TNC’s internal and external communications accurately reflect the coastal wetlands strategy. The Coastal Wetlands Associate assists with the development of key partnerships with public & private organizations – including The Global Mangrove Alliance -- to identify and resolve technical issues and to widely communicate solutions and best practices. S/He provide information that assists with the negotiation of complex and innovative solutions with government agencies and other global stakeholders to conserve, protect, develop and implement conservation strategies.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Provides strategic analysis in support of the coastal wetlands strategy.
- Provides economic analysis of conservation opportunities for coastal ecosystems.
- Designs, implements and directs complex and diverse projects encompassing multiple programs.
- Incorporates cross-disciplinary knowledge to support program objectives with a focus on coastal protection, livelihoods and community-led conservation.
- Helps to inform strategic decisions based on analysis, experience and context.
- Develops reports, presentations and assessments on topics related to the coastal wetlands strategy for different audiences.
- Serves as a team leader for assigned projects; may require gaining cooperation of team over whom there is no direct supervisory authority.
- Works within a budget to complete projects, negotiate and contract with vendors, and assist with budget development.
- May involve domestic and international travel of 25% or more.
- Experience supporting complex projects or strategic initiatives in an unstructured environment.
- Analytical and project management experience.
- Experience researching, critically analyzing, and evaluating information from divergent sources and compiling it into cohesive reports and recommendations for strategy and action.
- Experience writing and editing promotional and informational material.
- Experience in partnership development.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated
- Master’s degree and 4-6 years’ experience in conservation practice or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- International work experience.
- Experience in partnerships with non-profit partners, community groups and/or government agencies.
- Critical analytical thinking and excellent English writing skills are essential.
- Familiarity and knowledge related to business, governmental, and/or environmental policy and practices pertaining to the global strategy area of focus.
- Ability to develop and drive new ideas and approaches.
- Ability to work in a multicultural and multidisciplinary context.
- Ability to work well in a highly matrixed, decentralized and collaborative organization. Possesses strong interpersonal skills and political savvy. Must be a team player.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet time sensitive deadlines.
- Ability to write and speak in a language other than English, such as Spanish or Indonesian is highly desirable.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.