Needs From: BrownEngage

REPORTS TO:

Director of Advocacy

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The South County Coastkeeper is a member of Save The Bay’s Advocacy Team and leads the organization’s Coastkeeper program. As Save The Bay’s on-the-water advocate and watchdog along Rhode Island’s south coast, the Coastkeeper serves as a knowledgeable and credible voice on water quality, pollution, coastal ecology, and resource management.

This role responds to environmental threats and emergencies, supports broader advocacy initiatives, and builds public engagement and constituencies to advance the protection, restoration, and science-based management of the Little Narragansett Bay watershed and adjacent coastal waters—from Point Judith to Little Narragansett Bay.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESLead Save The Bay’s advocacy initiatives in the South Coast regionSupport broader organizational advocacy efforts, including legal, legislative, regulatory, and public communications workMaintain a visible on-the-water and community presence to identify and investigate pollution sources, support monitoring efforts, and address threats to water quality and ecosystem healthCollaborate with state and federal agencies on pollution response, user conflicts, and emergency incidents; review and comment on coastal development proposalsEngage coastal users, community members, and stakeholders to address priority issues and build support for advocacy goalsRepresent Save The Bay in media, public forums, and before local, state, and federal agencies and officialsParticipate in and support the work of the Waterkeeper Alliance (the South County Coastkeeper is a licensed Waterkeeper program)Perform other duties and responsibilities as assignedQUALIFICATIONS:Knowledge of estuarine and coastal ecosystems, including habitat protection and restorationExperience working on estuary, coastal, or ocean-related issuesDemonstrated commitment to environmental protection, restoration, and science-based advocacyAbility to communicate effectively in high-pressure or adversarial situations when engaging with skeptical or opposing audiencesStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholdersDemonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a teamAbility to operate and safely navigate a 21’ powerboat, and to trailer and launch boats, canoes, and kayaksFamiliarity with Rhode Island’s South County region a plusBachelor’s degree in environmental studies, marine science, or a related field preferredEnergetic, creative, and self-directed, with strong interpersonal and public engagement skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressureSALARY AND BENEFITS:

The South County Coastkeeper is a full-time, salaried position offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package.

Save The Bay is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TO APPLY:

Please submit your resume and cover letter HERE.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:

May 29, 2026