AWE Seeks Applicants for Senior Manager of Programs and Policy

Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) seeks a Senior Manager of Programs and Policy, a full-time, exempt position reporting to the Director of Programs. This role contributes to AWE’s Policy and Program work, which includes research and analysis, education/training, technical assistance, and creating/managing reports and resources.

The Senior Manager will also work to advance AWE’s policy agenda, collaborating with the President and CEO to develop and advocate for policies that advance water efficiency and sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Advance AWE research projects by recruiting and managing partners, conducting analyses, writing reports, and presenting results.
• Coordinate development of and advocacy for AWE’s policy goals and positions and, including local, state, federal, and codes/standards policy; incorporate input from the senior leadership team, the AWE Board of Directors and advisory committees, and partner organizations.
• Manage external relationships with decision makers, influencers, and partner organizations to advance the organization’s local, state, and federal policy goals.
• Bridge research, policy, and programs by integrating policy perspectives into research design and ensuring policy recommendations are backed by robust data and analysis.
• Coordinate education and training programs such as webinars, roundtables, and learning cohorts. Serve as staff liaison for AWE committees and other industry committees as assigned.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with members, partners, funders, and other stakeholders to support organizational goals and objectives.
• Represent AWE in public forums, conferences, and coalition meetings around policy development and other external events.

Desired Experiences, Skills, and Abilities

We are looking for a candidate with:

• 5+ years of relevant experience beyond educational background.
• Expertise in conducting and leading research projects using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Familiarity with regulatory concepts, policies, and procedures, particularly in water or energy utilities, efficiency practices, and industry trends.
• A background in water utilities, state or local government, sustainability, or related fields. Direct experience with water utilities is highly desired.
• Experience in areas of water loss, green building, codes and standards, water reuse, and/or other related topics to complement the team’s existing areas of expertise.
• Degree in a relevant field (e.g., environmental science, economics, public policy, engineering, water resources, political science); advanced degree preferred.
• A track record of publishing research papers or public-facing reports.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to actively listen, build relationships, and engage stakeholders in meaningful discussions.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate work.
• The ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet deadlines.
• A proactive and resourceful approach to problem-solving, adapting quickly to new challenges and evolving project needs.
• A commitment to continuous learning, with a spirit of curiosity and professional growth.
• The ability to interpret and present research findings in a way that provides practical, actionable insights.

Salary & Benefits

This is an exempt, salaried position with a competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Employer-subsidized medical and dental insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company base contribution and match.
• Vacation, sick leave, and 14 paid holidays.

Location

Chicago, IL (Hybrid) or Remote.

The successful candidate will have the option of working a hybrid schedule at AWE’s headquarters in Chicago, IL, or working fully remotely from another US-based location. The Program team currently includes both remote and hybrid employees. To qualify, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and should not require, now or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status. Occasional travel within the United States is anticipated (2-4 times per year).

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and a cover letter as a single PDF. In your cover letter, please focus your response on addressing the following prompts:

• How have your past experiences prepared you for this role?
• How do research, policy and programs work together? Please provide an example from your experience.
• What type of work energizes you, and what excites you most about this role?
• What unique experiences or perspectives would you bring to the team?

Email hr@a4we.org with the subject line “LAST NAME – SR. MANAGER ROLE”.  Priority review deadline is Wednesday, April 9.

A note to recruitment agencies - We do not accept unsolicited agency resumes and we are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

About Alliance for Water Efficiency

Alliance for Water Efficiency is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. Headquartered in Chicago, AWE serves as a North American advocate for water-efficient products and programs and provides information and assistance on water conservation efforts. Learn more about our mission.

AWE is proud to be an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from those who contribute to our diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, mental or physical disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, familial status, veteran status, or genetic information. AWE is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for all individuals in employment practices, services, programs, and activities.

The requirements listed in our job descriptions are guidelines, not hard and fast rules. If you have 75% or more of the qualifications listed, we encourage you to apply. AWE is especially excited about increasing applications from people committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, including people with disabilities, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and LGBTQ+ persons.