Program Director

Location: Clallam and Jefferson Counties, Washington

FLSA Status: Full-time, Exempt

Salary: $62,000 - $72,000 annually, dependent on qualifications

Benefits: Health insurance, generous paid leave, flexible work schedule

Reports to: Executive Director

About the Organization

With a mission to empower the North Olympic Peninsula to pursue and invest in its own economic and environmental destiny, the North Olympic Peninsula Resource Conservation & Development Council (NODC) is the regional Economic Development District for Clallam and Jefferson counties. Located on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula of Washington State, NODC works to develop a thriving, resilient region by producing a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS), convening discussions and planning responses to regional issues, supporting economic development in key sectors and implementing collaborative projects.

About the Position

The Program Director works with the Executive Director and NODC partners to plan, fund and implement regional projects in a variety of programs that improve the economic, environmental and community resilience of the region. NODC’s programs shift in response to community needs and funding availability. Current areas of focus include energy resilience, climate change adaptation, broadband expansion, agriculture and food systems, and economic development planning. The position offers the opportunity to work with a diverse group of local governments, Tribes, agencies and community organizations in a rural area with exceptional natural beauty.

The ideal candidate is passionate about making a difference in rural communities and interested in learning about and diving into a wide range of topics and issues. The position requires excellent writing, communication and strategic thinking skills and demonstrated success with federal and state grant writing. Knowledge and experience in group process, strategic planning, event planning and meeting facilitation are required. Must have the ability to work independently and thrive in a rapidly changing environment, working collaboratively and respectfully with people from a diverse variety of backgrounds and experiences.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

• Work with NODC members, partners and collaborators to facilitate regional planning on a range of issues.
• Work with Executive Director, Strategy Development Committee and partners on development of 5-year Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and annual updates.
• Work with Executive Director, partners and collaborators on grant research and proposal writing.
• Work with partners and collaborators on project planning, development and implementation for new and existing projects.
• Schedule and facilitate project meetings, prepare meeting minutes and manage collaborations.
• Prepare written reports and plans for distribution to project stakeholders, funders and general audiences.
• Participate in NODC staff meetings and provide support for other projects as requested.

Required Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Additional years of experience may substitute for this requirement.
• Minimum of 5 years professional experience in planning, community engagement, economic development and/or environmental work for government, Tribal or nonprofit organizations.
• Demonstrated success in leading multi-jurisdictional and/or cross-sectoral planning processes.
• Demonstrated success in writing and managing federal grants.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with and relate to people with a wide variety of backgrounds, education and experiences.
• Excellent communication ability in written and spoken English.
• Proficient in use of computers, including email, word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software; familiarity with Apple Macintosh platform preferred.
• Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently.
• Must live in Jefferson or Clallam County, Washington, or be willing to relocate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Experience working in a rural area.
• Experience working with Tribes.
• Experience working for a small non-profit organization.
• Knowledge of rural economic development, sustainable development, renewable energy, climate change adaptation, and/or broadband policy and development.
• Familiarity with the North Olympic Peninsula and existing contacts and relationships in the area.

To Apply:

Send resume, cover letter and 3 references to amy@noprcd.org by Monday, September 9, 2024. Writing samples will be requested from candidates selected for interview. NODC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. Women, people of color, Tribal members and members of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.