Advocacy Manager

Advocacy Manager

Job Title: Advocacy Manager

Location: Charleston, South Carolina

Reports to: Executive Director

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Overview

Charleston Waterkeeper was founded in 2009 to protect, defend, and restore the health and integrity of Charleston’s waterways for people and nature. Our vision is a Charleston where our waterways and marshes are clean, accessible, and protected by a community of clean water stewards and strong local and state safeguards.

We do that through an effective mix of science, stewardship, and advocacy that drives change for clean water.

We use data-driven programs and scientific research to identify pollution problems, advocate for stronger environmental safeguards, and drive actions that protect waterways and wetlands in the Charleston area. We promote wise stewardship actions, create opportunities for our community to engage in hands-on restoration efforts, and support projects that build resilience to restore salt marsh habitat and water quality. We give Charleston's waterways a voice, conduct pollution investigations, enforce environmental laws, and advocate for clean water policies to defend clean water and healthy habitat.

Description

The Advocacy Manager is responsible for leading Charleston Waterkeeper’s advocacy efforts to protect, defend, and restore Charleston’s waterways. This position will develop and implement advocacy strategies, engage with policymakers and regulatory agencies, and mobilize community support to advance clean water protections.

The Manager works closely with the Waterkeeper, Programs and Advocacy Committee, partner organizations, and community members to shape and drive Charleston Waterkeeper’s policy agenda and advocacy efforts.

The position requires excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, as well as a strong ability to analyze policy and navigate regulatory, political, and social frameworks, and develop grassroots advocacy initiatives. The ideal candidate will have experience in environmental policy, advocacy campaigns, and community organizing.

Charleston Waterkeeper values hard work, grit, initiative, and passion for Charleston’s waterways. Our organizational culture is team-oriented. Much of our advocacy work occurs outside of normal work hours, including public meetings, hearings, and community events. The Manager must be willing to participate and support other staff members as necessary during these times.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advocacy strategies to protect Charleston’s waterways.
• Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal policies impacting water quality (e.g. resiliency, flooding, waste infrastructure, wetlands, plastic pollution).
• Work with the Waterkeeper to engage with policymakers, regulatory agencies, and elected officials to advance clean water protections.
• Build and maintain partnerships with community groups, environmental organizations, trusted messengers, community advocates, and other stakeholders.
• Mobilize and educate the public on clean water issues through outreach and advocacy campaigns.
• Represent Charleston Waterkeeper in public meetings, hearings, and events.
• Work with the Waterkeeper and the Programs and Advocacy Committee to identify priority issues and strategies.
• Develop communication materials, including action alerts, reports, and policy briefs.
• Assist with grant writing and fundraising efforts related to advocacy initiatives.
• Support other Charleston Waterkeeper programs and initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in environmental policy, political science, or related field.
• Minimum three years of experience in environmental advocacy, policy, regulatory affairs, or other related fields.
• Strong understanding of water quality laws, regulatory processes, and policy frameworks.
• Excellent research, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Passion for environmental protection and a deep appreciation for Charleston’s waterways.
• Experience engaging with policymakers, community members, and partner organizations.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with CRM software, Google Drive, Dropbox, and social media platforms.

Charleston Waterkeeper is seeking candidates who bring distinct viewpoints in all forms, including gender, ethnicity, age, geography, and mindset. Applicants who will increase the organization’s diversity are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit, and the needs of the organization.

Charleston Waterkeeper is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations.

Please send a cover letter, resume, and references: jobs@charlestonwaterkeeper.org. Include “Advocacy Manager” in the subject line.