Project Manager, International Coastal Cleanup

The Ocean Conservancy • Washington, DC

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

For more than 50 years, Ocean Conservancy has delivered effective, evidence-based solutions for the ocean and all who depend on it. Today, we continue to unite science, people and policy to protect our ocean from the greatest challenges it faces: climate change, plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. We are a 501(C)3 headquartered in Washington, D.C. that inspires a worldwide network of partners, advocates and supporters through our comprehensive and clear-eyed approach to ocean conservation. Together, we are securing a healthy ocean and a thriving planet, forever and for everyone.

The Project Manager, International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) is responsible for leading the planning, coordination and execution of high-impact cleanup initiatives, partner activations and strategic conservation projects across Ocean Conservancy’s global cleanup portfolio. This role sits at the intersection of project management, event execution, stakeholder engagement and operational logistics, serving as a central driver of complex, multi-layered initiatives from concept through completion. Working within the Ending Ocean Plastics (EOP) team, the Project Manager will contribute to a diverse portfolio of work including NOAA-funded marine debris removal projects, corporate-supported cleanup activations, community partnerships and key operational priorities tied to the ICC. This role requires a detail-oriented and highly adaptable professional who can manage moving pieces across internal teams, external partners and field operations while maintaining a high standard of execution.

Requirements

• 4 to 6 years of experience in project management, event management, stakeholder engagement, logistics or a related field required.
• Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders, competing priorities and firm deadlines.
• Experience planning and executing events or field-based initiatives, including logistics, vendor coordination and on-site operations.
• Knowledge of federal grants or other government-funded projects preferred.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to build productive relationships across internal teams and external partners
• Experience tracking project budgets, timelines, data and performance metrics using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% of the time, including domestic and international travel, with occasional evenings and weekends.
• Valid driver's license and passport required.
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and assist with the physical setup and breakdown of event materials and equipment.
• Passion for the marine environment and a commitment to eliminating trash from the ocean.
• Bachelor’s Degree and appropriate professional experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of conservation cleanup projects and events across domestic and international locations, managing timelines, logistics and stakeholder coordination.
• Maintain, strengthen and streamline database management and logistical processes to improve efficiency, communication and execution.
• Support management of NOAA-funded marine debris removal projects, ensuring deliverables, budgets and reporting requirements remain on track and aligned with grant expectations (40%-50% of time anticipated).
• Develop and manage complex project plans, workback schedules, run-of-show documents and operational trackers for multiple simultaneous initiatives.
• Oversee seamless project delivery and alignment across the program.
• Engage in the development of the annual International Coastal Cleanup Report by coordinating content submissions, managing project timelines and drafting report sections and supporting materials.
• Manage relationships and engage confidently with local cleanup partners, corporate supporters, contractors, grantees and community stakeholders to support successful execution, manage expectations and contribute to long-term partnership growth.
• Represent Ocean Conservancy on the ground at cleanup activations, partner meetings, conferences and strategic events
• Track and manage project data including participation metrics, debris collection outcomes, budget tracking and program performance indicators.
• Maintain and update databases related to partner contacts, project management, volunteer participation, debris collection and program outcomes to support planning, reporting and operational efficiency.
• Prepare reports and project updates for internal leadership, federal funders, corporate partners and key stakeholders.
• Support strategic planning and operational development for new cleanup initiatives, program growth opportunities and partner activations.
• Identify risks, troubleshoot challenges and adapt quickly to evolving operational needs in dynamic environments.

Benefits

• Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s specialty skills, years of experience, location, and unique background.
• The expected salary range for this role is $80,000 - $90,000 annually.
• We would welcome the opportunity to connect with potential candidates whose salary requirements may be outside of the expected range.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level