Mid-Atlantic Conservation Policy Manager

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB•Bethlehem, PA

9d•$56,380 - $71,760•Onsite

About The Position

The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) is seeking a talented and enthusiastic conservation advocate and public policy professional to lead our coalition-based work to advance conservation and recreation in the Mid-Atlantic Region, based out of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. They will work with our policy and advocacy team to advance our policy priorities related to conservation, outdoor recreation, and the intersections with climate mitigation, as well as advancing greater equity in the outdoors. As part of our team of advocates from Maine to Pennsylvania, they coordinate with conservation and research staff, as well as our volunteers, to help build relationships between AMC and federal and state agencies, including regulatory bodies, elected officials, the private sector, and other non-profit organizations. A qualified candidate will be enthusiastic about AMC’s conservation and recreation mission, have a proven track record as a skilled communicator, and will have experience in community and constituency engagement around environmental and outdoor recreation issues. The Conservation Policy Manager is primarily focused on eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Priority initiatives include state and federal legislative and regulatory public policy issues in the region that protect and invest in the region’s landscape and waters and advance equitable access to the outdoors.

Requirements

Passion for the outdoor recreation, conservation, and education mission of AMC.
At least five years of experience, or a combination of professional experience and graduate experience, in environmental policy and advocacy, land and water protection, issue-based or other campaign work, volunteer relations, community outreach or organizing, constituency engagement, communications, social science, or a related field.
Experience in building or productively contributing to coalitions and networks, identifying relationships with key stakeholders, and facilitating information exchange among diverse interests toward a common set of goals.
Strong research, writing, and verbal communications skills, and a comfort with public speaking.
Solid computer skills and a willingness to learn more as needed.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Proven experience in working effectively to support and engage volunteers and other constituents often of a varied background and experience level.
Commitment to creating an equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant environment for AMC employees, guests, visitors, volunteers, and other constituents.
Must have a valid driver’s license and willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends, as well as a willingness to travel with overnight stays throughout the Northeast, often no more than two nights a month.

Nice To Haves

The ability to occasionally travel safely in the backcountry in all weather conditions carrying a backpack of up to 20 pounds is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead AMC's conservation and recreation policy work in the Mid-Atlantic region, including working with AMC’s advocacy team to identify and implement public policy and advocacy campaigns and initiatives at both the state and federal level, often working in partnership with other non-profit organizations in a coalition setting.
Lead and support the Pennsylvania Highlands Coalition in its work to protect the Pennsylvania Highlands region, as well as supporting the 4-state Highlands Coalition in CT, NJ, NY, and PA.
Build relationships with federal, state, and local government officials, especially in areas supporting AMC operations and trails priorities.
Analyze and comment on legislation, regulations, and policies related to land conservation and management, natural climate solutions, outdoor recreation, and equity in the outdoors.
Build and convene coalition partnerships with conservation and outdoor recreation organizations and coordinate coalition advocacy efforts.
Recruit additional business and community partner voices to advocate for conservation and recreation access.
Write and edit compelling pieces, including online action alerts, social media posts, and blog entries as well as policy memos, testimony, lobbying materials, and press releases.
Organize and host informational programs and events, such as webinars, meetings, and presentations about the Highlands and Delaware River watershed.
Engage and cultivate action among AMC members, volunteers, the public, and partner organizations. Activities may include coordinating and participating in events and recreational outings as needed.
Assist with grant development by conceptualizing grant fundable projects, pitching and writing grant applications, as well as strengthening relationships with grant funders.
Identify and lead new strategic initiatives in the region, such as expanding programs, tackling new policy arenas, and developing innovative tools and approaches for advancing AMC’s conservation and recreation mission.
Represent AMC at regional conferences, press events, and meetings, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Support internal coordination across the Conservation team, as needed (Trails, Research, Lands, and Policy) and with Operations, Growth, and Development teams.

Benefits

Health Plan: Generous employer contributions through Cigna with optional vision and dental.
Other Insurance: 100% employer paid life insurance, AD&D insurance, long-term disability.
Career Progression: The potential to have annual compensation reviews commensurate with performance and effort.
Retirement: Mandatory 403(b) with 4% matching employer contributions and a vesting schedule.
Paid Time Off: up to 4 weeks of paid earned time and up to 11 paid company holidays.
30% discount on AMC Merchandise
Free Annual AMC Membership
10 Free nights at AMC locations
Educational Assistance
Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear