Community Engagement & Policy Specialist

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The Community Engagement and Policy Specialist is an integral part of the Policy and Partnership team and the Texas Chapter of The Nature Conservancy and represents the chapter within communities and with policymakers. The Community Engagement & Policy Specialist will work with chapter staff to identify and diversify key partnerships with public & private organizations to assess critical issues, co-create best practices, and develop innovative analyses, tools, and/or frameworks that promote listening, learning, and engaging local communities in the design and implementation of conservation efforts. They will model authentic, lasting engagement aimed at including diverse perspectives, cultures, and heritage in the chapter’s work throughout the state as we shape and deliver on strategic conservation initiatives for the benefit of people and nature. The Specialist will coordinate with conservation staff on volunteer programs and activities in the Texas Chapter.

The Community Engagement & Policy Specialist plans, implements, and coordinates programs at the local and state level to affect public and/or corporate policy to further the Texas Chapter’s mission. Duties include frequent contact with local and state government officials and agency representatives on matters pertaining to the Chapter’s legislative priorities. They work with subject matter experts within the organization to develop policy initiatives, influence, and advocate for desired outcomes of policy at the local and state level. They develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.

The Community Engagement & Policy Specialist will be expected to travel throughout the state of Texas, up to 25%.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Roles & Responsibilities

Community Engagement

• Identify and engage diverse communities across the state.
• Develop and implement a state-wide community engagement strategy in coordination with conservation programs and Chapter objectives.
• Serve as the Chapter’s point of contact with internal and external partners for community engagement opportunities and activities across the state.
• Engage with chapter staff and others within the larger organization to share community perspectives and insights.
• Manage projects involving community engagement.
• Maintain and expand systems to monitor, quantify, and share community engagement outcomes to build trust and demonstrate relevant results across the Chapter.
• Coordinate with conservation staff on volunteer programs and activities.
• Leverage a deep knowledge of DEIJ principles in working with internal and external parties to advance the Chapter’s conservation objectives.
• Prepare and deliver materials and presentations.

Policy

• Engage in policy at the local and state level that advances the conservation goals of the chapter.
• Assist in the development and implementation of the Texas Chapter’s legislative initiatives at the local and state level.
• Support TNC’s conservation goals by serving as a liaison and informational contact between the organization and outside agencies, partners, government officials, or companies.
• Develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, government officials, and industry to advance The Nature Conservancy’s conservation agenda.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and policy briefs for a variety of audiences.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• Bachelor’s degree and 4 years related experience or equivalent combination.
• Experience engaging and partnering with community, business, government, or legislative staff and/or program leadership.
• Experience in designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
• Ability to organize and analyze feedback from various perspectives and make recommendations.
• Communications experience including preparing and presenting project proposals; providing effective public presentations and developing written communications.
• Experience working with corporate or NGO partners, volunteers, and government agencies.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
• Experience coordinating projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units, and functions to achieve optimal results.

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, and other well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports the health and well-being of the people we employ.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high-risk drivers.” To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit TNC’s FAQ.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $70,000 – $90,000 for the annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Your geographic location will be confirmed during recruitment.

APPLY NOW

To apply for job ID 55402, submit your materials online by using the Apply Now button at TNC Careers. Need help applying? Visit our recruitment page or contact [email protected].

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we’re committed to diversity.