International Associate

Location: Washington, D.C.
Supervisor: Director of International Conservation

Position Description

This position entails scientific research and analysis, campaign-building, communications, and lobbying related to international wildlife conservation.  Primary responsibilities include: developing and implementing conservation campaigns, often in coalition with other conservation organizations; to protect wildlife outside of the United States; and to protect wildlife within the United States from transboundary threats.  Particular areas of concentration includes the international wildlife trade; amphibian conservation; invasive species; preservation of tropical forests and associated species; and global warming.  The position emphasizes advocacy and lobbying in support of conservation in these areas.  It also includes representing Defenders in Congress, before Administration agencies, in international forums, and at scientific meetings.

This position also requires occasional domestic and/or international travel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide research, analysis, campaign-building, communications, and advocacy support for Defenders’ International Program
  • Work with supervisor to research, develop, and implement campaigns, programs, and strategies to promote international conservation
  • Participate in the development of Defenders’ international conservation policy goals
  • Work with supervisor and relevant staff members to prepare press releases and education and outreach materials
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of Congress and staff, members of media, and staff of leading NGOs
  • Represent Defenders in coalitions, public meetings, conferences, and in general communications with government officials, inter-governmental organizations, the media, Defenders’ membership, the donor community, and the general public
  • Perform all other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:  Advanced degree or equivalent in conservation science and/or policy, or other related discipline

Experience:  2+ years of experience in wildlife conservation work.  Practical experience in international conservation, particularly in the context of CITES, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and/or other treaties desired.  Experience lobbying or working for Congress also desired.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Other Qualifications:

  • Strong research, writing, oral advocacy, and verbal communications skills
  • Proficiency in one or more foreign languages, preferably Spanish and/or French

How To Apply

Interested applicants please reference International Associate in your subject line and submit a letter of interest, along with your resume and salary history (must be included to be considered) to us via e-mail at: HR@defenders.org

It is the policy of Defenders of Wildlife to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law, in all personnel actions.