Environmental Policy & Advocacy Associate

Sanibel - Captiva Conservati•Sanibel, FL

3d•$55,000 - $60,000

About The Position

The Environmental Policy & Advocacy Associate works with the Environmental Policy team to translate science into impactful outcomes on water quality, land use, wildlife conservation, and resilience. The role monitors relevant legislation during Florida’s legislative session and environmental issues in Lee County; supports advocacy campaigns with the Policy and Communications teams; and engages with elected and appointed officials, agency staff, community groups, and the media. The position also supports education and outreach through courses, presentations, public comments, media interviews, and SCCF’s ‘Land, Water, Wildlife’ podcast. Responsibilities include collecting weekly aerial water-quality photos using a drone, compiling them into a virtual panoramic tour, tracking and communicating weekly water-quality conditions, researching environmental science and policy developments, and creating communications such as infographics and story maps. The role involves regular travel from Sanibel to meetings and events throughout Florida. Workdays may extend into evenings and some weekends, particularly during Sanibel’s high tourism season and when participating in SCCF programs, events, or educational activities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in environmental science, ecology, public policy, or a related field.
Strong research and organization skills, including the ability to track and understand multiple issues from scientific and policy-based perspectives.
Understanding of Florida legislative processes and willingness to learn.
Computer skills, including use of Microsoft Suite and data management.
Strong writing, speaking, and communication skills, including the ability to explain complex topics to varied audiences.
Willingness to learn new skills and gain in-depth knowledge of Southwest Florida’s environmental challenges.
Strong diplomacy and networking skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively on larger initiatives.
Ability to conduct presentations, provide public comments, and conduct media interviews on various topics.
Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and endurance for semi-frequent travel throughout the county and state.
Ability to sit, walk, stand, and participate in media interviews, presentations, and public speaking engagements.
Employment offer is contingent on passing a background check and drug screening.

Nice To Haves

Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, including Lightroom and Photoshop; these skills can be taught on-site.
Experience piloting a Mavic Pro 2 drone for data collection; this skill can be taught on-site.
Experience using Constant Contact and WordPress; these skills can be taught on-site.
Data analysis skills in Excel.
GIS and R knowledge.

Responsibilities

Work with the Environmental Policy team to translate science into outcomes related to water quality, land use, wildlife conservation, and resilience.
Monitor relevant bills during Florida’s legislative session and environmental issues within Lee County.
Work with Policy and Communications teams to create advocacy campaigns, including legislative action alerts, articles, and social media content.
Participate in meetings with elected or appointed officials and agency staff at various levels of government, and provide comments at public meetings.
Help lead educational courses for various groups on environmental policy; conduct presentations and participate in media interviews.
Capture weekly aerial water-quality photos using a drone and compile them into a virtual panoramic tour.
Compile metrics and create communications about weekly water-quality conditions.
Research environmental science publications, legislative developments, and threats to Southwest Florida’s environment.
Conduct background research and participate in SCCF’s ‘Land, Water, Wildlife’ podcast.
Create communications tools such as infographics and story maps.
Participate in SCCF staff events, meetings, and fundraising events.
Travel regularly from Sanibel to meetings and events at locations throughout the state.