Policy Specialist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Florida.

📋 Description

• Play a vital role in promoting Audubon’s Everglades policy objectives by conducting research, analysis, and offering guidance on issues related to the Everglades.

• Provide counsel to the Senior Policy Manager, Everglades regarding potential State and Federal legislative and administrative priorities, as well as associated opportunities and risks.

• Investigate and evaluate existing water and agricultural Florida Statutes, rules, and regulations, and recommend enhancements that align with Audon’s Everglades policy aspirations.

• Produce high-quality analyses on Environmental Impact Statements for restoration projects and other programs associated with the Everglades.

• Compose fact sheets, comment letters, testimonies, and other necessary documents to support Audubon’s Everglades policy initiatives and priorities.

• Lead the development and execution of advocacy strategies for the Everglades.

• Establish collaborative relationships with leadership and key personnel at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the South Florida Water Management District to convey Audubon’s Everglades priorities and influence policy decisions.

• Collaborate with Audon’s scientific team members throughout the Everglades.

• Identify and engage strategic allies to help promote Audon’s key Everglades policy objectives.

• Represent Audubon at public meetings related to the Everglades and in issue-based coalitions; monitor developments and contribute to coalition-based legislative stances that support Audon’s primary policy objectives.

• Uphold and nurture a culture of safety.

• Perform other job-related responsibilities as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in policy, political science, biology, or a related field is required.

• A minimum of 5 years of experience with a policy-focused nonprofit organization or a pertinent government agency engaged in water management, environmental regulations, or similar areas is required.

• Familiarity with Florida water statutes, rules, and regulations.

• Strong skills in policy analysis and research.

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to write clearly and deliver effective public presentations; must be comfortable representing Audon’s interests to a diverse range of stakeholders, including decision-makers from various agencies, NGO partners, and general audiences.

• Experience working with agencies such as the South Florida Water Management District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Florida Department of Environmental Protection is preferred.

• Self-motivated and results-driven with a proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with multiple team members.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications is required; familiarity with social media tools is a plus.

• Must be able to travel and attend occasional external events that may take place on weekends and evenings.

• A valid driver’s license is required.

🏝️ Benefits

• Health insurance

• Retirement plans

• Paid time off

• Flexible work arrangements

• Professional development opportunities