US Programs Policy Specialist

The Center for Large Landscape Conservation is seeking a US Programs Policy Specialist to contribute to landscape-scale conservation efforts. Responsibilities include analyzing policies, producing research materials, fostering partnerships, and representing the organization in various forums. The position offers a salary of $70,000 - $75,000 annually, with benefits including 100% employer-paid insurance and flexible scheduling. The work arrangement may be in-person, hybrid, or remote.
Position Type: 1 FTE (40 hours/week), Exempt

Work Location: Bozeman, MT

Work Arrangement: In-person, hybrid or remote option may be negotiable.

Compensation: $70,000 - $75,000 annually, DOE

Benefits: 100% employer-paid medical, dental & vision insurance, up to a 5% match on 401k contributions, generous PTO, and flexible scheduling

Reports to: US Connectivity Program Director

Application Deadline: Open until filled, preference given to applications received by June 6, 2025

Preferred start date: As soon as possible

Position Overview

The United States Connectivity Conservation Program Policy Specialist is a dedicated and astute individual that will contribute to the mission, vision, and objectives of CLLC. This individual will be an integral part of the US Connectivity Program team. The position will focus on understanding and developing policies and best practices for landscape-scale conservation, fostering high-level collaboration, the creation of an enabling policy environment for successful conservation, and guiding and providing expertise on a variety of scales: local, county, state, tribal, and national, related to landscape-scale conservation, including connectivity and wildlife crossings across North America. This position will facilitate cooperation and information exchange among networks of experts and institutions, coordinate and guide participation in policy fora, and lead and/or assist with related projects and initiatives. The Policy Specialist will also support efforts to craft and implement program strategies and strive for program, project, and organizational success.

Responsibilities and Duties

Connectivity Policy Advancement, Partnerships and Leadership
• Compile and analyze federal, state, tribal and local policies and plans associated with and relevant for wildlife-friendly transportation and landscape connectivity conservation
• Produce and/or contribute to knowledge transfer activities, media, and publications for CLLC and with partners, including research, writing, preparation, and promotion of materials and written deliverables (e.g. reports, toolkits, white papers, academic articles) that support the development and implementation of wildlife friendly transportation infrastructure and landscape connectivity policies and projects
• Contribute to the advancement of CLLC’s reputation as a key player in connectivity conservation in the US and nurture relationships with decision-makers and other key stakeholders
• Assist in educating congressional and administration leaders on CLLC priorities and promote a national commitment to, and implementation of, ecological connectivity
• Represent CLLC and serve as a spokesperson on US Program issues with external audiences, including media, program partners, policymakers, and the public
• Stay abreast of policies that enable and drive key public and private landscape-level initiatives, i.e., Keystone Initiatives and Landscape Conservation Designs (LCDs), and help determine CLLC’s strategic role and provide expertise to move them forward
• Engage with partners to determine, generate and drive federal legislative opportunities to advance connectivity
• Provide leadership within CLLC and relevant external partners on tribal, state and local connectivity policy and enabling legislation

Program Advancement & Organizational Engagement
• Support fundraising efforts for US policy, program & projects, including identifying opportunities, communicating with funders, and helping draft plans, proposals, and grant reports
• Participate in US Program Team meetings, including check-ins, strategic planning, project development, and prioritization activities
• Develop and adhere to annual work plans, track milestones, and strive to achieve targets and goals
• Complete and deliver high quality project deliverables as required by funders; develop detailed project timelines and milestones and adhere to established deadlines; regularly review project outcomes and progress against agreed upon targets and adjust to ensure timely completion
• Communicate project outcomes and impact internally and externally, and liaise with the Communications team to ensure timely, strategic production of media and educational materials
• Participate in CLLC meetings and retreats; amplify alignment between the US Program’s policy work and CLLC’s other program areas

Qualifications and Expectations

Preferred Qualifications
• Graduate degree and 3+ years of directly relevant professional experience, with a demonstrated record of excellence and accomplishments
• Experience in a leadership role in ecology, conservation biology, climate science, natural resource management, or environmental policy
• Able to research, integrate, and apply scientific literature and policy to write reports and papers
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to project manage/prioritize to successfully meet deadlines
• Proven experience facilitating meetings and creating engaging presentations and webinars
• Ability to translate complex issues into simple and persuasive ideas and have a learning stance

Essential Qualifications
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Ability to work effectively and respectfully across cultures
• Willingness to travel within North America multiple times a year
• Flexibility to work with people across all U.S. time zones

General Expectations
• Support the Center’s internal policies and processes, and help to advance our organizational effectiveness and culture
• Bring integrity, genuineness, and curiosity to your daily work
• Provide problem solving in your program area
• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to give, receive, and process information in a professional manner
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion with sensitive information
• Promote and strive for the long-term sustainability of the US Program and CLLC overall
• Positively represent the Center in both public and private settings
• Maintain relevancy with best practices and advancements in conservation

How to apply:

Please click the "Apply for this Job" button above. You will be asked to include:
• A brief cover letter explaining how your goals, skills and background fit the responsibilities of this role
• A Resume
• Contact information for three professional references

The Center for Large Landscape Conservation is committed to building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive conservation movement where diverse perspectives are encouraged. We welcome a diverse applicant pool and highly encourage candidates from marginalized/under resourced communities or identities to apply for this position.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state or local law.