Our Culture

Friends of the Everglades is a small team with a big mission: to preserve, protect, and restore the only Everglades in the world. Because we're small, each person's work matters and is noticed. Our policy, science, education, development, and operations staff work closely together toward a shared purpose.

We're collaborative by nature. We step in to support one another when needed, and we talk openly about priorities and workload so expectations stay clear and manageable. We value honesty, respect, and constructive communication with each other, our partners, and the public.

If you're looking for a place where your expertise has a real impact, and where colleagues care about the mission and about each other, we hope you'll apply.

SCIENCE & POLICY ANALYST

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This is a Florida-based remote position that requires travel to our Stuart, FL office approximately twice per month. We will prioritize candidates based in the South Florida region (Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties), but we welcome applications from qualified candidates who reside elsewhere in the 16-county Greater Everglades region or who are willing to relocate to the 16-county region. 

The Science & Policy Analyst, reporting to the Policy Director, develops and curates scientific knowledge to inform Friends of the Everglades’ (FOE) policy positions and advocacy. The Analyst reviews and synthesizes scientific data, studies, and reports; authors white papers and briefing materials; and attends seminars, workshops, and meetings relevant to Friends’ mission. The role tracks environmental conditions and water quality trends, and collaborates with FOE’s science advisors, conservation partners, government officials, agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure policy recommendations are grounded in sound science.

This position works under the direction and coordination of the Policy Director, providing research (including legislative tracking) and technical input that strengthens Friends’ policy positions and communications.

Salary Range and Benefits:

• Full-time, salaried
• $60-70k, commensurate with experience
• Remote with some travel reimbursement
• Healthcare coverage, generous PTO, 401(k), paid holidays 

Essential Responsibilities

Scientific Research & Analysis

• Review and evaluate scientific evidence and research related to Everglades restoration, water quality, and ecosystem health, providing analysis to support policy decisions.
• Track environmental conditions such as algal blooms, and long-term water quality conditions using available monitoring data and agency updates.
• Participate in field visits, seminars, workshops, and scientific briefings to stay informed on emerging issues.
• Consult external scientific experts on the Everglades to ensure evaluations and policy analysis include relevant data and perspectives.
• Work with the Policy Director and FOE’s science advisors to interpret evidence and strengthen the organization’s policy positions.
• Draft white papers, memos, briefings, and technical summaries to help the FOE leadership team formulate sound positions for advocacy and education.

Policy Support & Advocacy Input

• Assist the Policy Director in tracking and assessing proposed federal, state, and local policies and legislation for alignment with Friends’ mission and objectives.
• Provide research-based recommendations and technical input to support the Policy Director’s policy positions.
• Report on research findings and provide science-based recommendations to the Policy Director for potential new policies or amendments to existing ones.
• Contribute to the preparation of advocacy materials, spoken and written public comments, and testimony.
• Support the Policy Director in engaging stakeholders and contributing technical input to consensus-building on policies related to the protection, preservation, and restoration of the Everglades.
• Build collaborative working relationships with scientists, agencies, and partner organizations as directed by the Policy Director.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Translate technical and scientific findings into clear, accessible communications for non-scientific audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.
• Provide background materials, talking points, and presentations to support the Policy Director, Executive Director, and other staff.
• Represent FOE at meetings, workshops, or events when requested by the Policy Director.

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities of the position and may be adjusted as needed to meet organizational priorities. The employee may be asked to perform other duties as assigned in support of the organization’s mission.

Dual Employment Notice

This position serves both Friends of the Everglades - 501(c)(3) and VoteWater - 501(c)(4). The employee’s work may include responsibilities for both entities, and all time must be tracked and allocated accurately between them in accordance with organizational policy and IRS requirements. The employee is expected to follow all applicable guidelines to ensure proper cost allocation, compliance with lobbying limitations, and the distinct mission and activities of each organization.

QualificationsRequired

• Bachelor's degree in a physical, biological, or environmental science or engineering field, or a bachelor's degree combined with a science-related master's degree
• Ability to read, evaluate, and synthesize scientific literature and monitoring data
• Strong writing skills, with the ability to explain technical findings to non-scientists
• Comfort with engaging a wide range of stakeholders
• Working knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes

Preferred

• Advanced degree in a relevant field
• 2+ years of relevant experience in scientific research, environmental science, policy, or advocacy (paid, volunteer, internship, fellowship, or graduate research experience all count)
• Familiarity with Everglades restoration issues (CERP, Lake Okeechobee management schedule, water quality standards)
• Experience working with state or federal agencies
• Experience with data analysis or GIS tools