Position: Policy and Communications Specialist
Reports to: Director of Policy & Outreach, New York Seascape Program
Position Managed: None
Location: New York / Washington DC
Country Program/Sector: US/GCP/Marine Conservation (NY Bight)– Public Affairs
Scope: National
Position Type: Part-Time (10 hours per week)
Duration: Until July 2027
Job Summary:
The Policy and Communications Specialist supports strategic engagement efforts for the Hudson Canyon campaign by supporting cross-functional initiatives and advancing stakeholder reach. This role works flows through Government Affairs and consults on scientific/programmatic elements with New York Bight team to help implement targeted strategies that influence federal decision-makers, strengthen communications, and support grasstops and grassroots engagement across the Mid-Atlantic region and nationally.
Major Responsibilities:
- Strategically inform stakeholder outreach and help maintain relationships with policy-makers, partners and community groups.
- Assist in implementing engagement strategies targeting federal decision makers, including National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Capitol Hill stakeholders.
- Support Government Affairs team in refining advocacy approaches and campaign priorities; inform and/or consult with NYB program in advance of dissemination.
- Contribute to development of messaging and communication materials for key audiences.
- Inform grasstops and grassroots engagement efforts across the Mid-Atlantic region and nationally.
- Track engagement activities and provide updates to inform ongoing NY Bight strategy process.
- Ensure alignment across Government Affairs and NYB program by supporting coordination of science-based policy, communications and stakeholder engagement efforts.
Internal Qualification RequirementsBachelor’s degree in public policy, environmental studies, communications or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
4+ years of marine policy knowledge of the interplay between the Hill, the Administration, NOAA and the National Marine Sanctuary Program.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience developing messaging for diverse audiences.
Experience supporting or coordinating stakeholder engagement effort, including partnerships and grassroots outreach.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively across team in a part-time capacity.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative, cross-functional team environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with non-profit organizations or coalitions.
WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person’s membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities.
Note that the salary offer will reflect the selected candidate’s individual experiences, skills and qualifications, internal equity, work location and country of work.
