SUMMARY:
The Oyster Program Director leads the North Carolina Coastal Federation’s oyster restoration and management efforts across coastal North Carolina. This position combines strategic program leadership with on-the-ground coastal science. The Director is responsible for developing and implementing projects that advance oyster restoration, policy, education, and community engagement. They supervise program staff, coordinate multi-partner initiatives, oversee project implementation, and help secure funding. The Oyster Program Director reports directly to the Chief Program Officer and plays a critical role in meeting the Federation’s annual goals for habitat restoration and water quality improvement.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program Leadership and Management
- Develop and implement annual program objectives and measurable benchmarks for oyster-related work.
- Manage and mentor program staff to deliver high-quality results aligned with strategic goals.
- Ensure timely and successful completion of all program deliverables, budgets, and reporting requirements.
- Conduct annual evaluations of oyster program staff in coordination with the Chief Program Officer.
- Ensure safe, efficient, and productive field activities related to oyster restoration.
Restoration Project Implementation
- Lead the design, planning, and execution of oyster restoration and related habitat enhancement projects.
- Monitor restoration outcomes and conduct necessary evaluations and adaptive management.
- Manage technical data.
Partnerships, Engagement and Outreach
- Work with education and communications staff to engage volunteers, interns, and diverse communities in oyster-related initiatives.
- Represent the Federation in collaborative partnerships, coalitions, and public forums in oyster-related efforts.
- Work with the education and communications teams to share program updates and impacts through the Federation’s outreach platforms.
- Collaborate with development and grant-writing staff to identify funding opportunities, develop proposals, and manage grants for the oyster program.
- Track funding needs and maintain consistent, adequate support for projects and staffing.
Additional Duties
- Complete other tasks as assigned by the Chief Program Officer and approved by the Executive Director.
COMPETENCIES:
- Strong understanding of coastal and oyster restoration science and related policy issues.
- Demonstrated success in grant writing.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, including clear writing to various audiences, presentation of scientific and persuasive information, development of materials, oral presentation and one-on-one meetings.
- Excellent public relations, interpersonal and listening skills.
- Exceptional planning and organization skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, with attention to detail.
- Proficient in GIS and standard software programs (Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Professional demeanor and ability to represent the Federation in all capacities effectively.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a cross-functional team.
- Highly motivated, with exceptional professionalism, accountability, and personal integrity.
- Ability to work independently under pressure and time constraints, maintaining a positive and constructive attitude.
- Solid understanding of the Federation’s work.
- Strong personal commitment to environmental conservation and community-based restoration.
- Comfortable conducting fieldwork and operating field equipment safely.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Master’s degree in marine science, ecology, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field (or bachelor’s degree with at least five years of relevant experience).
- At least five years of professional experience in coastal habitat restoration, natural resource management, or similar work.
- Experience in project and staff management, grant development, and multi-participant coordination.
- Familiarity with oyster reef ecology, estuarine systems, and North Carolina’s coastal environments and environmental programs strongly preferred.
Salary range: $75,000 – $95,000, commensurate with experience
Application deadline: August 8, 2025
