Loading...

Water Programs Manager

River Alliance of Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin

Job Type Permanent
Salary $60,000 - $65,000 per year
Benefits 32 hours/week. Includes a comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, retirement, etc.)
Deadline Oct 25, 2026
Min. Experience 2 - 4 years

River Alliance of Wisconsin, a statewide organization that empowers people to protect and restore water, seeks a manager for its active, visible and successful water protection priorities. This is an opportunity to join a team of respected and effective conservation professionals on issues that resonate across a diverse network of supporters.

Reporting to the Agriculture and Water Policy Director, the River Alliance of Wisconsin Water Programs Manager supports our Wisconsin Water Agenda, Wisconsin Agricultural Agenda and statewide water protection programs. A commitment to clean water for all, and grassroots leadership are musts. This position is full time (32 hours/week).

Water Program Manager Overview  

Skills you have to bring:  

  • Builder of strong, authentic relationships with a range of stakeholders.
  • Strong understanding of water policy and laws.
  • Experience in community organizing, advocacy, or water policy.
  • Quick learner who performs well in a fast-paced environment.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion principles.  
  • Willingness to laugh out loud and have fun.

What you’ll do:

Manage, with our partners, the Central Wisconsin Basin Plan Initiative, which is a key component to our Wisconsin Water Agenda. 40%

  • Work with DNR, regional planning commission, and conservation non-profit partners to guide the governance, water literacy and data gaps phases of the project.  
  • Coordinate and facilitate meetings with partners.  

Participate in coalitions and collaborations on subjects such as PFAS, Neonicatoids, Nitrates, climate resilience, dams, with state agencies and allies. 20%

  • Research topics, strategize on actions and create reports.  
  • Build strong relationships with partner organizations and water advocates.

Support our Wisconsin Agricultural Agenda and Farm Finance Program. 20%

  • Assist in developing conservation training materials for lenders.
  • Establish relationships with farmer-led watershed groups to aid their organizational development.

In collaboration with the Water Advocates Organizer and Agriculture and Policy Director,  organize local water leaders across WI to support strong water policy. 5%

  • Create supporting materials for action alerts.
  • Connect with water advocates across the state to support their activism.  

Participate in River Alliance functions and activities, as needed. 3%

  • Events include: Wild & Scenic Film Festival, Fools’ Flotilla, and other community events.

Other duties as assigned. 2%

This position is based in Madison, WI. Remote/hybrid work is possible, but requires some office time in Madison.  Candidates must be within a commutable distance of the office in Madison, WI.  Salary between $60,000-$65,000/year, depending on experience. Includes a comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, retirement, etc.), an energetic work environment, and the chance to associate with passionate board members, staff and advocates committed to clean fresh water. 

How To Apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume via email to jobs@wisconsinrivers.org  with the title “Water Programs Manager Search.”

Applications may also be submitted via mail to: Water Programs Manager Search, River Alliance of Wisconsin, 612 W. Main Street Suite 200  Madison, WI 53703.  

DEADLINE: For priority consideration, apply by October 25, 2026. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. No calls, please.  

Expected start date December 1, 2026

River Alliance of Wisconsin is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, equitable, and supportive working environment in which everyone is respected for their unique experiences and perspectives. 

Full job posting is avaialble here: https://wisconsinrivers.org/job-water-programs-manager/ 

When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.

Category Hydrology , Policy And Law