OFFICE LOCATION

Sacramento, California, USA.

This is a hybrid or in-person position. The State External Affairs Associate should expect to be on-site at the TNC CA headquarters or at a government building at least two times/week.

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The State External Affairs Associate supports The Nature Conservancy’s conservation goals by working on project teams to design and deliver policy objectives and serving as liaison between The Nature Conservancy and the state legislature.

The State External Affairs Associate works with the Associate Director to plan, implement, and coordinate programs in California to influence state policy to further the Conservancy’s mission. 

Duties of the State External Affairs team include:

• Frequent contact the Legislature on matters pertaining to environmental policy.
• Building and facilitating internal networks, coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations.
• Influencing the outcome of policy initiatives at the state level.
• Developing strategic partnerships with relevant partners, including with non-government organizations (NGOs), to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.  

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career supporting natural preservation? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest conservation challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• Bachelor’s degree and 4 years of related work experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Fluency in English.
• Experience presenting to and/or communicating with business, government, or legislative staff and/or program leadership.
• Experience in designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
• Communications experience including preparing and presenting project proposals and developing written communications.
• Experience working with NGO partners and government agencies.  

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in a Legislative office or other state government.
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience.
• Master’s degree appreciated.
• Familiarity with social, economic, and political conditions and issues in California.
• Experience coordinating projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units, and functions to achieve optimal results.  
• Outstanding written and oral communication, negotiating and organizational skills.

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world! 

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay for this position is within the range of $80,300 – $94,450 for annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA, state of employment is California, and county of employment is Sacramento. Where a successful candidate’s pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors including location, qualifications, skills, and experience. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.