Associate Director

The Morro Bay National Estuary Program brings the community, local governments, nonprofits, government agencies, and landowners together to protect and restore Morro Bay. The Estuary Program is a non-regulatory, nonprofit organization that conducts monitoring and research, restores natural habitats, and educates residents and visitors on how to keep Morro Bay clean and healthy.

The Estuary Program is seeking an Associate Director to support program management, operations & administration, fundraising, and grant management. This position plays a key role in management of an environmental nonprofit, including program oversight and operational support. The Associate Director also supports communication and outreach efforts to increase knowledge and stewardship to help protect Morro Bay and the lands that surround it. The Executive Director and Associate Director work together to promote estuary and watershed health and showcase the scientific, restoration, and education work of the Estuary Program.

The Associate Director reports to the Executive Director and works closely with the Comptroller on budget tracking, grant management, contracting, and other financial management tasks. The position is a leadership development role, offering experience in nonprofit management and direct mentorship from an Executive Director.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BA/BS, coursework, or equivalent work experience in the environmental field (natural resources management, environmental science, biology, environmental education, or similar)
• Two to five years of experience, ideally in the environmental field, in areas such as consulting, nonprofit, or small business management.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, with experience in public speaking and presentations
• Excellent written communication skills with demonstrated experience writing for technical and public audiences
• Ability to translate technical information clearly and appropriately for diverse audiences, consistent with organizational voice and messaging
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to manage multiple projects with varying timelines and reporting requirements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat Pro

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in the environmental field
• Experience managing projects, grants, and associated budgets
• Experience working with environmental conservation initiatives or small nonprofit organizations
• Experience in supervising staff, volunteers, interns, and/or students
• Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising and donor communications

Pay, Benefits, & Work Environment

This is a non-exempt, full-time position with a pay rate of $30 to $33 per hour, depending on experience. Anticipated start date in May 2026, with some flexibility to accommodate the academic calendar.

Tagged as: Advocacy/Communications, Conservation