American Whitewater announces new staff position opening

JOB DESCRIPTION

RIVER CONSERVATION & ACCESS

EASTERN ASSOCIATE

American Whitewater’s Conservation & Access Associate will assist the organization’s Conservation and Access Directors with on-the-ground river work from Maine to Georgia with a primary emphasis on the Southeast. The Associate works with and reports to the Program Directors and is responsible for assisting with river issues within their territory. Of primary importance is the direct growth, coordination and strengthening of grassroots efforts by American Whitewater volunteers, including our nationwide system of regional coordinators. The Conservation & Access Associate provides coordination, technical expertise, and assistance in promoting American Whitewater’s mission. The Conservation & Access Associate is also responsible for working with other conservation and recreation organizations, as well as local, state and federal river agencies.

Conservation and Access Working with the Conservation and Access Directors, serves as American Whitewater regional representative on conservation and access issues. As part of the organization’s Programs Team, works with the other staff and the Executive Director to articulate American Whitewater’s policies, goals, and objectives in individual river issues. Coordinates the efforts of local and regional American Whitewater volunteers. Assists with fundraising efforts.

Communications With other staff members, helps present and develop a strong, efficient, and cohesive organization message. Should have experience drafting press releases, speaking publicly, writing, and good telephone and Internet skills.

Journal & Website Responsible for writing and soliciting local and regional articles for the bi-monthly magazine American Whitewater and for the organization’s website.

Events Responsible for promoting American Whitewater’s Conservation and Access mission at events. With other staff and volunteers, assists with local and regional events as needed.

General Participates in general staff responsibilities, including meetings, record keeping, administration, and so forth. Salary is commensurate with experience. Travel and availability on evenings and weekends are required. Ability to work in Silver Spring, MD for the first two months and an additional week every six months is required.

• Proven background with local, and regional river conservation and access work. Special consideration given for expertise in hydropower relicensing, access law, river protection regulations, fisheries, river ecology, hydrology, and similar fields.


• Experience working with non-profit river groups, agencies, local landowners, and recreational groups. Knowledge of local rivers, issues, and key constituencies including paddlers and paddling clubs.


• Self-starter, eventually able to establish a regional field office and work independently on regional issues.


• Excellent organizational and management skills including communications, teamwork and small office management and support.


• Proven ability to interact successfully with a broad range of people.


• Excellent written and oral communications skills.


• Strong Computer and Internet Skills.


• Knowledge of regional watersheds and familiarity with whitewater recreation opportunities on the East Coast.

Send cover letter, resume and references to American Whitewater, 1430 Fenwick Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or fax (301) 589-6121.