POSITION SUMMARY

Western Resource Advocates (WRA) seeks a passionate and strategic professional to analyze, develop, and advocate for policies, model legislation and other mechanisms that protect our lands, rivers, and wildlife in New Mexico. The Lands and Rivers Senior Policy Analyst will help shape responsible land and river management policy and ensure permanent protections, while building relationships with key stakeholders throughout the state. Reporting to the Western Lands Program Director, this position provides an exciting opportunity to shape equitable state-level land and water policy in New Mexico and build sustainable communities and economies in the West.

ABOUT WESTERN RESOURCE ADVOCATES

Founded in 1989, Western Resource Advocates is dedicated to protecting the West’s land, air, and water to ensure that vibrant communities exist in balance with nature. We use law, science, and economics to craft innovative solutions to the most pressing conservation issues in the region within three core program areas: Clean Energy, Healthy Rivers and Western Lands.

In the face of population growth and climate change, the Western United States needs a strong and effective advocacy voice at the regional level to address changes that are already underway and to steer the West towards a sustainable future. WRA has aggressive plans to tackle these challenges. We envision a future in the West where:

• Western rivers and lakes will have abundant clean water to support habitat for fish and wildlife, communities and agriculture, and world class recreational opportunities. The Colorado River will flow to the sea;
• Our homes, buildings and transportation systems will be powered by clean energy. The West will prosper in a zero-carbon economy;
• Half of western landscapes and habitat will be protected and connected to support thriving wildlife populations and unparalleled opportunities to enjoy the West’s natural beauty; and
• The West will have clean air and clean water to support healthy communities and vital habitat.

LOCATION

The position can be based remotely anywhere within New Mexico, or can work from WRA’s office in Santa Fe. WRA employees are strongly encouraged to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. After the pandemic, some travel to WRA’s Santa Fe office and within New Mexico will be required for collaboration with WRA staff and stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACTIVITIES

POLICY RESEARCH

• Develop and advocate for policies, model legislation and other mechanisms that protect New Mexico’s lands and rivers.

ADVOCACY

• Monitor and engage on relevant state and federal policy developments.
• Provide strategic advice regarding state land and water regulation and administrative law.
• Help build equitable access to conservation policies and practices for historically under-served communities.

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

• Develop and maintain relationships with conservation community partners, non-traditional allies, government partners, and other stakeholders.
• Cultivate key relationships with WRA board members, foundation partners, and donors.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

EXPERIENCE

• Proven and demonstrated experience and/or professional degree in natural resource law, public policy, wildlife management, environmental science, or related disciplines.
• Familiarity with equitable and inclusive policies and mechanisms.

LEGISLATIVE & ADMINISTRATIVE KNOWLEDGE

• Understanding of the procedures related to the application of government policies and public administration.

COMMUNICATION & INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

• Strong written and oral communication abilities.
• Motivated self-starter with comfort and skill in communicating with a variety of policymakers, constituencies and audiences.
• Ability to translate complicated technical concepts into accessible written and spoken content.
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SKILLS

• Project management experience.
• Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, and follow-through.

TRAVEL

• Willingness to travel 10-20% of time (post COIVD-19).

ADDITIONAL SKILLS AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

This section is made up of skills that a candidate may or may not come in with. They are not required and candidates who do not possess these skills yet, should not be discouraged from applying.

• Well-connected with decision makers and advocacy organizations in New Mexico.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary range for this position is $70,000-$90,000; salary depends on relevant experience and new staff rarely start at the top of the range. WRA’s excellent benefits package includes health, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, life & disability insurance, 3 weeks paid vacation leave, sick leave, parental leave, and sabbatical leave after five years. Position is full-time exempt.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: OPEN UNTIL FILLED WITH PRIORITY REVIEW STARTING ON TUESDAY, MAY 4, 2021

Diversity and inclusion are a critical component of our business strategy, mission and vision. We welcome candidates from an array of backgrounds and experiences to join our team. Learn more about our commitment here: https://westernresourceadvocates.org/#commitment-to-diversity.

Western Resource Advocates is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion,  gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or veteran status.