Director of Policy

New Jersey Conservation Foundation (NJCF) is a private, not-for-profit statewide organization devoted to preserving land and protecting natural resources throughout New Jersey's rural, suburban, and urban landscapes. Since 1960, NJCF has preserved more than 140,000 acres of open space, farmland, and parks. We rely on philanthropic support and grants from a variety of public and private organizations and individual donors.

Position Overview

We are seeking a full-time staff member to lead our Policy team. In cooperation with Policy staff, the Director of Policy will lead, develop, analyze and implement NJCF’s public policy program, which prioritizes defending preserved lands and preservation programs, protecting critical natural resources, and combating and addressing the impacts of climate change by advancing carbon sequestration and other natural solutions through state legislation, regulations and policies.  The Director of Policy will also help support the work of  Rethink Energy NJ, which focuses on energy policy and research. This staff member is part of the organization’s Senior Leadership Team and plays a leadership role in NJ’s broader conservation community.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will develop an annual Policy Agenda with Policy staff and the Board Policy Committee, lead weekly Policy department meetings, evaluate and analyze legislation, regulations and public policy in New Jersey pertaining to land and natural resources conservation and management, including the threats from energy development proposals and climate change.

In addition, the candidate will develop and implement effective advocacy campaigns and strategies to advance policy goals; build and support coalitions with partner organizations; prepare reports and other supporting materials for Board Policy Committee and NJCF publications; assist Development staff in preparing grant proposals and reports; and communicate NJCF policy positions to target audiences, including elected officials, administrative agencies, media, and partner organizations in a credible, reasonable voice.

Qualifications 

• We are seeking candidates with demonstrated leadership and management skills, knowledge of New Jersey public policy arena and issues and experience with research, analysis, and preparation of reports.
• The ideal candidate should also have excellent communication skills, be a demonstrated team player, have the ability to work with diverse organizations and individuals and the ability to respond quickly and adapt to change.
• Candidates should have previous experience in Natural Resource Management, Planning, or Policy with demonstrated knowledge in land and natural resources conservation and management issues.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $94,000 to $100,000. We offer a hybrid work environment and a competitive benefits package, including paid holidays, vacation, sick, and personal time, health insurance, life insurance and a 401k plan with a generous match.

To Apply

• Qualified candidates should click "Apply" below to email a cover letter and resume. Or, fax to (908) 234-1189 or mail to Maria Hauser, NJ Conservation Foundation, 170 Longview Road, Far Hills, NJ 07931.
• For additional information about New Jersey Conservation Foundation visit www.njconservation.org.

The health and safety of our employees, volunteers and interns is our top priority.  New Jersey Conservation Foundation has adopted “COVID-19 Health and Safety Policies and Guidelines” based on guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic.   All employees, volunteers and interns  will be given a copy of this policy upon commencement of employment or service to the organization and are expected to fully adhere to the procedures and guidelines outlined in this policy.