Salary:  €42,000 - €47,000

Location: Mostly remote - you will be expected to work in the office twice a month. Candidates must be flexible to travel as required for meetings and events.

Contract type:  Three-year contract with the possibility of a permanent position, depending on funding.

BACKGROUND

The Sustainable Water Network (SWAN) is an umbrella network of twenty-five of Ireland’s leading environmental non-governmental organisations (eNGOs) working together to protect Ireland’s waters by participating in the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD), Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and other water-related legislation.  SWAN has national and local members, representing a vast range of specialist and local knowledge and expertise in all areas of Ireland’s aquatic environment.

THE ROLE

SWAN is now seeking a confident and resourceful Freshwater Policy Officer with a solid grasp of water science, law, and policy, particularly regarding the impact of nutrients and other pollutants on freshwater. The ideal candidate will have a relevant postgrad qualification and at least three years of experience in water policy, preferably within the NGO sector. They must be adept at delivering incisive policy analysis, advocating successfully with senior decision-makers, and building strong relationships with a variety of stakeholders.

The successful candidate will be passionate about using their scientific expertise to drive real change in freshwater protection. Building relationships and collaborating effectively both in person and online is crucial, as is the ability to work well with a diverse network of members. The Freshwater Policy Officer will coordinate consultation responses, taking input from members.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on the front lines of freshwater protection and policy change in Ireland. The Freshwater Policy Officer will engage with key decision-makers, influence Irish water policy and legislation, and gain in-depth experience in water policymaking and implementation. They will also have the chance to attend and participate in water-related meetings, events, and conferences, both in Ireland and occasionally in the EU.

If you are an enthusiastic advocate with scientific expertise and strong collaboration skills, we'd love to hear from you!