CA Ocean Conservation Policy Manager

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission.  We welcome people from all walks of life into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.

This role supports hybrid or onsite work types, as well as flexible scheduling.

Job Summary: 

Under limited supervision, track state ocean policies and make recommendations for Aquarium action; build political relationships with the California Legislature and Governor’s administration; manage conservation policy campaigns; research and develop position papers; lead and participate in strategic alliances with key partners including conservation organizations, environmental justice organizations, regional community groups, businesses, and the aquarium, zoo, and museum communities; uphold the Aquarium’s core values of scientific rigor and integrity; perform other duties as required. This role is a member of a core team to design California ocean conservation policy strategies and is responsible for managing state policy strategy implementation..

Core Activities:                                                                                                                                 

• Track state policies through the legislative or regulatory process (e.g., review policy updates and progress)
• Research and develop position papers, talking points, testimony, public comments letters
• Develop recommendation Aquarium action on state policies (e.g., support/oppose/amend, internal review/update, external express MBA position)
• Influence policy makers through persuasive communications and use of campaign assets
• Lead and participate in strategic alliances with key partners including conservation organizations, environmental justice organizations, regional community groups, businesses, and the aquarium, zoo, and museum communities
• Provide input into the design of statewide conservation policy strategies with the Director of California Policy and Government Affairs and other members of the U.S. and California Ocean Conservation Team.
• Deliver testimony, speak on panels, host meetings with elected officials, and participate in on-camera and other types of media interviews, to represent the Aquarium at external events with key political leaders and audiences (conferences, committees, councils, media platforms, etc.).
• Organize conferences, workshops, VIP visits and other events in support of the Aquarium’s state conservation policy strategies.
• Prepare and deliver reports and presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate with the USCA Coordinator to complete lobbying compliance and reports.
• Serve as the Aquarium’s main point of contact with the state lobbyist.
• Recruit and supervise interns and volunteers as needed.  Contract with consultants for important policy research and outreach needs.
• Implement strategies for achieving the state’s ocean conservation goals (wildlife and ecosystem protection, ocean plastic pollution, climate change, and environmental justice), including:

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in ocean policy or science; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• At least at least 5 years experience in ocean conservation policy
• Expertise in current California ocean policy issues, including but not limited to: wildlife and ecosystem protection, ocean plastic pollution, climate change, and environmental justice
• Outstanding research, analysis, written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in the executive and/or legislative branch desired
• Fluency in Spanish preferred
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage programs and people
• Ability to work within, and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Core Values
• Demonstrated commitment to Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Leadership Competencies
• Must be able to travel within California
• Must be able to be in the office in Monterey at least 3 days a week

Physical Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions:

•  Typical office equipment, some boating
• Constant sitting, standing, walking, bending
• Occasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs
• Typical office environment, main aquarium and exhibits, occasional offsite events, scientific research vessels, research lab space. 

Annual Compensation Range:

$91,200- $116,000USD annually. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.