Watershed Policy Specialist

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Inc•Annapolis, MD

1h•Onsite

About The Position

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is seeking a Watershed Policy Specialist to join the Advocacy and Restoration Department, based in Annapolis, Maryland. CBF, established in 1966, is the largest regional nonprofit conservation organization focused on saving the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The organization works through education, advocacy, litigation, and restoration to achieve its vision of a healthy and resilient Bay ecosystem. CBF has approximately 200 employees across multiple offices and field locations. The headquarters in Annapolis is the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, a LEED platinum building, and CBF also operates the energy-efficient Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach. The Advocacy and Restoration department works to protect natural resources, fight for strong environmental laws, restore habitats, and engage citizens in conservation efforts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 1-2 years’ experience in land use/urban planning, sustainable development, stormwater management, environmental science, policy, or law
Exceptional written and public speaking skills that include the ability to adapt to different settings and audiences, including decision-makers
Collaborative work style that includes working within a team as well as independently.
Excellent time-management skills
Proficient in computer applications, including MS Teams, Office and mapping/GIS software

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Maryland state land use policy and law, including the Forest Conservation Act, Critical Area Law, Coast Smart, and smart growth is preferred
Recognized certifications in sustainability, environmental justice, or land use or urban design are a plus

Responsibilities

Assist in the development of CBF’s policies and positions with a focus on land conversion, stormwater, and other non-point source pollution through monitoring of local and state legislation, regulations, policies, and funding priorities.
Analyze, critique, summarize, and provide written comment on new or changing laws, regulations, policies, guidelines, and funding programs regarding their impact on the water quality and living resources of the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland rivers.
Serve as an effective advocate, including testifying at public hearings, serving on relevant committees, and educating other organizations, citizen groups, and the public. This includes meeting with affected municipal/industry/community leaders and other concerned individuals.
Participate in coalitions of partners, community members, CBF advocates and others to advance policies that improve watershed health.
Serve on standing and ad hoc internal workgroups to implement CBF’s strategic plan priorities.
Analyze and synthesize research and policy frameworks to provide support for CBF positions and help develop CBF positions on issues of concern. Prepare reports or policy documents establishing CBF positions.
Review individual projects and permits for precedent or state-wide impact and provide recommendations on engagement based on CBF’s established decision-making frameworks.
Interact with concerned citizens and the media.
Participate in media opportunities, including interviews for TV, radio, and print publications in support of CBF policy priorities.
Prepare materials for and conduct presentations at workshops, seminars, hearings etc.
Respond to citizen inquiries related to land use issues.
Participate in issue-oriented field trips for legislators, CBF members, decision makers, and the public.