Director of Programs and Research

General Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the Director of Programs & Research is a key member of AWE’s leadership team and will lead the development, implementation, and oversight of AWE’s core programs and research initiatives, ensuring they are aligned with AWE’s mission and responsive to member and sector needs. This position plays a critical role in maintaining AWE’s reputation as a trusted source for water efficiency expertise. The Director will be required to travel occasionally to represent AWE at various meetings and events. Other duties as assigned. This is an exempt, salaried position.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and strategic vision to advance AWE’s core programmatic and research activities, including program/project design, cross-sector partnerships, and new project development and planning.
• Demonstrate strong research and technical expertise on water efficiency, conservation, reuse, supply planning, water resource management, and other strategies that advance AWE’s mission.
• Lead project implementation, including supporting project tasks such as data collection and analysis, report writing, survey development, stakeholder engagement, education and outreach, and project management.
• Develop AWE’s annual Program and Research Department Work Plan and manage/monitor progress towards its goals.
• Collaboratively manage and support program and research staff and consultants.
• Work with the President and CEO to secure grants and contracts for mission-aligned programs and projects.
• Manage technical assistance services for AWE members.
• Oversee development of the program agenda for AWE’s annual Water Efficiency and Conservation Symposium
• Participate in industry associations and committees.
• Support AWE’s Water Efficiency Research Committee.
• Stay abreast of water efficiency research, technologies, and policies.
• Represent AWE in external venues to discuss major initiatives and serve as spokesperson as needed on programmatic and research activities to the media, funders, and others.

Key Attributes, Experience, and Education

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A minimum of 7 years in a water, natural resources, or environmental field. Demonstrated experience with water utility efficiency and conservation programs is preferred.
• At least 3 years of staff management experience.
• Strong project management skills with a history of measurable successes and program growth.
• Direct experience managing research projects.
• Experience and confidence writing about and presenting complex topics for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Thrives in a collaborative, team environment.
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to and passion for AWE’s mission.
• Ability to operate as a strategic, independent, and creative thinker and problem-solver.
• Exceptional written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills and the ability to effectively interface with senior management, Board of Directors, and others.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and ArcGIS or other mapping software experience is desired.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree or PhD in a related field is preferred.
• Experience securing grants and/or contracts to fund projects is desired.
• Policy experience is desired.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation is competitive and will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Benefits package offered, including but not limited to medical and dental; employer 401(k) retirement contribution and match; parental leave; vacation, sick, and holiday pay.

Location

Chicago, IL (Hybrid) or Remote

The successful candidate will have the option of working a hybrid schedule at AWE’s headquarters in Chicago, IL, or working fully remotely from another US-based location. To qualify, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US and should not require, now or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status.

About the Alliance

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE advocates for water-efficient products and programs, develops cutting-edge research, and provides technical assistance to its diverse membership base. AWE partners with over 550 member organizations, providing benefits to local water utilities, businesses and industries, government agencies, universities, and professional associations.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to HR@a4we.org. For priority consideration, apply by August 31, 2025. Open until filled. Please put “Director of Programs & Research--LAST NAME” in the subject line of your email.

AWE is proud to be an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from those who contribute to our diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, mental or physical disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, familial status, veteran status, or genetic information. AWE is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for all individuals in employment practices, services, programs, and activities.

The requirements listed in this job description are guidelines, not hard and fast rules. If you have 75% or more of the Key Attributes, Experience, and Education listed, we encourage you to apply. AWE is especially excited about increasing applications from people committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, including people with disabilities, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and LGBTQ+ persons.