Associate Director, California Water Program

Freshwater vertebrates are declining at twice the rate of those found on land or in our oceans – and California is no exception. Without a change, California is on track to lose 50% of its freshwater plants and animals this century. If you want to be part of the change that moves us from a freshwater biodiversity crisis to a more resilient and sustainable water future, there is no better place to work than The Nature Conservancy. 

The Associate Director leads the Rewilding Team to define and execute conservation strategies aimed at supporting nature’s needs in California’s agricultural landscapes, including securing California’s important place on the Pacific Flyway, and reducing water use by repurposing farmland to upland habitat. This includes working with a team of scientists to define a research agenda to inform, support and evaluate our strategies. You will also manage a matrixed team to create and restore habitat in partnership with farmers, irrigation districts, groundwater sustainability agencies and other NGOs. In addition to advancing on-the-ground projects, you will develop and advance strategies at regional and statewide scales, helping to connect and integrate individual projects across the Water Program’s portfolio. Your responsibilities include staff supervision and development, budget management, fundraising and strategic planning. The Associate Director is an important ambassador for the Rewilding strategy by serving as a compelling spokesperson for the team’s work with donors, elected officials, the media and our Board of Trustees.
This position will report directly to the Director of the Water Program within TNC California. The location for this position is anywhere in California, with a strong preference for the vicinity of Sacramento.  Apply today and find a career where you can find meaning and purpose!