Bayou Preservation Association seeks Policy and Public Affairs Manager

Job Title: Policy and Public Affairs Manager

Organization: Bayou Preservation Association

Reports to: President & CEO

Location: Houston, TX

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

About Bayou Preservation Association

The Bayou Preservation Association focuses on four key programs to accomplish its mission:

bayou appreciation, bayou citizen science, clean bayous, and stream corridor restoration.

Cross-cutting projects and initiatives – those that address the goals of more than one program

– also continue, such as the educational symposium series, public resiliency education, policy

review and response.

Our Values

Bayou Preservation Association advocates for urban development that weaves nature and

nature-based solutions into the built environment to promote regional resilience, report on

and monitor water quality in collaboration with local jurisdictions, and develop educational

tools for communities and stewards. Through a collaborative approach, we bring together

scientists, engineers, educators, advocates, and resident stewards to Celebrate, Protect, and

Restore Houston Bayous.

Position Summary

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will lead the development and implementation of the

Bayou Preservation Association’s water policy and public affairs campaign, with a focus on

urban stormwater runoff, point and non-point source pollutants, and environmental equity.

This role will integrate community engagement, policy development, and public engagement

to advance the organization’s mission. The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will manage

ongoing and emerging local and regional strategies for policy related to stormwater runoff,

point and non-point source pollutants, and environmental equity. Over time, the Policy and

Public Affairs Manager will work to interweave community priorities into all of our work

through collaborative outreach, relationship building, and co-creating a water policy and

advocacy agenda. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to engaging

impacted communities and also understand how to effectively develop policy strategies and

advocate at the local, regional, and state levels.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Development and Public Affairs

– Research and analyze local, state, and federal policies related to stormwater management,

water quality, and environmental equity.

– Develop and lead advocacy strategies to advance equitable stormwater policies and green

infrastructure initiatives.

– Build relationships with policymakers, local government officials, and community

stakeholders to influence policy decisions.

– Draft policy briefs, position statements, and advocacy materials to support the organization’s

campaigns.

– Represent the organization at public hearings, City Council meetings, and other relevant

forums.

Community Engagement and Outreach

– Design and implement community-centered advocacy campaigns, including letter-writing

initiatives, public forums, and local action toolkits.

– Engage with vulnerable and under-resourced communities to amplify their voices and

address their specific needs related to stormwater runoff and water quality.

– Support ongoing community education programs, including workshops, educational events,

and water quality monitoring initiatives.

– Develop partnerships with local organizations, neighborhood associations, and faith-based

groups to expand the organization’s reach and impact.

Management

– Track and report on outcomes, including community participation, and policy impacts.

– Supervise volunteers and interns supporting campaign activities.

Communications and Fundraising Support

– Collaborate with the staff to develop compelling messaging and outreach materials for

social media, newsletters, and the website.

– Contribute to grant proposals and fundraising efforts by providing program data,

community impact stories, and policy updates.

– Serve as a spokesperson for the organization in community events and media opportunities.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

– Bachelor’s degree in public policy, environmental science, urban planning, or a related field

(Master’s degree preferred).

– At least 3 years of experience in policy, advocacy, community outreach, or program

management, preferably in an environmental, governmental, or nonprofit setting.

Skills and Competencies

– Strong knowledge of environmental policies, particularly related to stormwater

management, water quality, and green infrastructure.

– Excellent communication skills, including public speaking, writing, and relationship-building.

– Experience working with diverse communities, especially underserved and under-resourced

populations.

– Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.

– Proficiency in using data and metrics to demonstrate program impact.

Personal Attributes

– Passion for environmental justice and equity.

– Collaborative and inclusive approach to working with communities and stakeholders.

– Self-motivated and adaptable, with a problem-solving mindset.

– Commitment to the mission and values of the Bayou Preservation Association.

Compensation and Benefits

– Salary range: $60,000 – $70,000, commensurate with experience.

– Comprehensive benefits package, including health care stipend, paid time off, cell phone

stipend, mileage reimbursement, and professional development opportunities.

– Flexible work environment with opportunities for hybrid remote work.

Application Process

To apply, please submit the following:

– A cover letter detailing your interest in the position and relevant experience.

– Your resume.

– Contact information for three professional references.

Applications should be emailed to Brittani at BFlowers@bayoupreservation.org with the

subject line “Policy and Public Affairs Manager.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling

basis. To receive priority consideration, please submit applications by February 28, 2025.

**This is a grant-funded position with an anticipated end date of no later than August 31,

2026. The position may be extended beyond this date, contingent upon the securing of

additional funding.

The Bayou Preservation Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity

and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and community

members.