Atlantic Forage Fish Conservation Coordinator (contractor)

Job Details

Wild Oceans is looking for a part-time Atlantic Forage Fish Conservation Coordinate (contractor) to assist Wild Oceans in organizing a coalition of conservation organizations, recreational fishermen, Tribal leaders and river/watershed stewards who are passionate about protecting Atlantic forage fish and anadromous river herring and shad. 

The position includes a broad spectrum of activities ranging from reviewing stock assessments to drafting comment letters to providing public comment at stakeholder meetings. This will require advocacy work at the New England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Councils and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission liaising with policy makers and key stakeholders. Ideally, candidates should have an understanding of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, experience in advocacy and communications and be independent and resourceful.

More specifically, the Contractor will assist Wild Oceans in achieving bycatch reduction measures such as time/area closures for river herring and shad and still have a positive impact on the Atlantic herring stock and its users. 

The primary duties of the Consultant will include working with Wild Oceans President and consultants to: 

• Monitor the activities of the Atlantic fishery management Councils and advisory bodies related to Atlantic herring and mackerel and river herring and shad bycatch. 
• Review and analyze alternatives to reduce river herring and shad bycatch in Atlantic herring and mackerel fisheries.
• Organize herring coalition members to review alternatives and agree on priorities for reducing bycatch and protecting Atlantic forage fish.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Engage with decision-makers, scientists and stakeholders and actively participate in key policy events to defend and advance Wild Oceans campaign goals.
• Represent Wild Oceans in meetings with Council members and Council staff, decision-makers, other non- profit organizations, stakeholders, media, donors, and the public.
• Develop fact sheets, blogs, and other materials on Wild Oceans marine fish conservation prioritie

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have:

• Degree in marine science, marine policy, law, environmental conservation, or a related field.
• Experience in policy, coalition building, education and/or advocacy.
• Working knowledge of fisheries policies with the ability to analyze proposals, provide science-based recommendations, and communicate with decision-makers.
• Familiarity with US fisheries management as well as the decision-making process.
• Experience working collaboratively with diverse groups and building trust in these settings.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Contract Duration - June - October 2026

Hours/Location - 10-15 hours per week/ remote

Contact Information

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