South County Coastkeeper
TO APPLY: Please submit your resume and cover letter HERE.
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 RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead Save The Bay’s advocacy initiatives in the South Coast region
- Support broader organizational advocacy efforts, including legal, legislative, regulatory, and public communications work
- Maintain 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 health
- Collaborate with state and federal agencies on pollution response, user conflicts, and emergency incidents; review and comment on coastal development proposals
- Engage coastal users, community members, and stakeholders to address priority issues and build support for advocacy goals
- Represent Save The Bay in media, public forums, and before local, state, and federal agencies and officials
- Participate in and support the work of the Waterkeeper Alliance (the South County Coastkeeper is a licensed Waterkeeper program)
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of estuarine and coastal ecosystems, including habitat protection and restoration
- Experience working on estuary, coastal, or ocean-related issues
- Demonstrated commitment to environmental protection, restoration, and science-based advocacy
- Ability to communicate effectively in high-pressure or adversarial situations when engaging with skeptical or opposing audiences
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Ability to operate and safely navigate a 21’ powerboat, and to trailer and launch boats, canoes, and kayaks
- Familiarity with Rhode Island’s South County region a plus
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, marine science, or a related field preferred
- Energetic, creative, and self-directed, with strong interpersonal and public engagement skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressure
SALARY AND BENEFITS: The South County Coastkeeper is a full-time, salaried position offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: May 29, 2026