The Marine Debris Specialist plays a critical supporting role in Ocean Conservancy’s marine debris efforts by assisting in community engagement, logistical coordination, and data tracking. This position will help facilitate marine debris cleanup and backhaul efforts in California, working closely with the Senior Manager, Arctic Marine Debris and local partners to ensure successful execution of projects. The Marine Debris Specialist will serve as a liaison between community members, transportation partners, and the OC team, ensuring seamless coordination of debris removal operations. Additionally, the role will involve outreach efforts, supporting communication strategies, and maintaining detailed project records to enhance the effectiveness of the Arctic marine debris program.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist in coordinating OC’s marine debris cleanup and transportation efforts across California.
• Support partnerships with California. Native communities, Tribes, NGOs, and local government agencies to facilitate marine debris removal.
• Communicate with transportation providers (barges, fishing vessels, recyclers) to support the safe and efficient removal of marine debris.
• Track and maintain detailed records of cleanup sites, transportation logistics, and debris disposal.
• Assist in the development of outreach materials, reports, and blogs to highlight OC’s marine debris efforts.
• Represent OC in local and regional working groups, meetings, and conferences as needed.
• Support project administration, including coordinating with contractors, drafting funding proposals, and managing small project budgets.
• Conduct research and compile data to support program development and advocacy efforts.
• Provide logistical and operational support for cleanup events and community engagement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support OC’s Arctic and Northern Waters Program goals.
REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE
• BA/BS degree and 2-4 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working with and in coastal California.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in data tracking and logistics coordination.
• Ability to work both independently with limited oversight and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including experience developing outreach materials or reports.
• Demonstrated commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.