Policy Research Associate

The Policy Research Associate will support the evaluation, prioritization and advancement of state and local policies that can provide effective and scalable contributions to the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices and water quality improvements across the country, primarily though not exclusively at the state level. They will work with interdisciplinary teams to identify, compile, and research promising water policy interventions, develop legislative or administrative solutions for those interventions, and work with government relations professionals and others to implement those solutions at the state or federal level.

The Research Associate will help identify and foster relationships with third-party contractors, including consultants, other NGOs, universities, among others to build TNC’s policy research capabilities.

May supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff. Financial responsibility to complete projects appropriately and assist with budget development and meeting fundraising goals for local and worldwide conservation. Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements. Works within scope of program’s strategic goals. Provides research and policy analysis in support of legislative and/or policy priorities. May aid with preparation of program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.

Influences the outcome of policy and/or corporate initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels. Develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and/or industry. Work independently, working with supervisor as needed. May require occasional domestic travel for multi‑day retreats, meetings, and conferences May work long/flexible hours as needed to coordinate with staff and partners across the US or region.

This is a full‑time, 2‑year grant‑funded position with the possibility of extension based on continued grant funding. Working location is remote from a home office within the continental United States.

The Policy Research Associate will play a vital role in the development and support of replicable policy interventions at the state and local level to advance the outcomes of the North America Agriculture Program’s Water Policy Accelerator. They will serve as a subject matter expert on projects with other teams and will be responsible for assisting our government relations staff in advancing interventions to water quality challenges.

A priority area for this work will be to research and design policy interventions that expand the implementation of Edge of Field practices, such as vegetative buffers and wetlands, as well as identifying and developing policy solutions to other water policy challenges. This position will report into the North America Agriculture Program, working closely with an interdisciplinary team from North America Policy and Government Relations, Global Conservation Campaigns, numerous state Business Units, and external stakeholders.

The Policy Research Associate will have strong analytical skills, experience in policy analysis, and an understanding of law and the legislative process. The successful candidate will be able to work effectively independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, highly matrixed organization; and be adaptable to shifting needs and priorities.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 3 years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Fluency in English Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.

Experience with legislative…