What are the responsibilities and job description for the Science Director, Beyond Plastics position at Bennington College?
Beyond Plastics seeks a Science Director who will be responsible for leading scientific initiatives, driving strategies to advance the organization’s mission to eliminate plastic pollution. This role requires the communication of scientific findings to the public and policymakers. The Science Director will oversee the development of evidence-based work and help shape policy efforts to curb plastic pollution.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
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Scientific Leadership: Lead the development and execution of Beyond Plastics’ scientific strategy, ensuring that our advocacy and campaigns are grounded in the best available science on plastic pollution and its environmental and health and environmental justice impacts.
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Policy Advocacy: Work closely with the policy team to translate scientific findings into actionable policy recommendations. Engage with lawmakers, regulators, and other environmental groups to advocate for science-based laws to reduce plastic pollution.
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Research and Analysis: Oversee data collection, and analysis to understand the scope of plastic pollution and identify sustainable solutions. Produce reports, fact sheets, social media posts, and other resources to inform our advocacy work.
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Partnership Development: Build and maintain relationships with academic researchers, environmental organizations, and government agencies to foster collaboration and share knowledge.
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Public Communication: Serve as the organization’s scientific spokesperson in media interviews, public presentations, and at conferences, communicating scientific information and data in clear, accessible terms.
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Education and Outreach: Develop educational materials and programs to raise public awareness about the science of plastic pollution, its impact on ecosystems and human health, and the importance of systemic change.
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Team Leadership:. Work with the advocacy, communications, and fundraising teams to ensure scientific insights are integrated into all aspects of Beyond Plastics’ work.
ABOUT BEYOND PLASTICS
Founded in 2019 , Beyond Plastics is a project housed at Bennington College with the mission to end plastic pollution everywhere. Currently a team of 14 deeply committed individuals working remotely, Beyond Plastics focuses on policy and advocacy, building a grassroots movement, and educating the public in order to further its mission. You will be an employee of Bennington College, working only on issues related to Beyond Plastics.
QUALIFICATIONS
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Master's degree in environmental science, marine biology, chemistry, biology, toxicology, environmental policy, engineering, or a related field required. A minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental science or related discipline. Experience in civic leadership, policy advocacy, and scientific communication required.
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Experience in influencing policy and working with government, and organizational allies to advance environmental goals required. Strong understanding of the environmental, health, and environmental justice impacts of plastic pollution.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills necessary to maintain good relations and open communication, with the ability to present complex scientific information to a variety of audiences. Demonstrated ability to develop/maintain positive relationships. Strong research, analytical, problem-solving, and time-management skills. Must exercise good judgment at all times.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
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Computer skills. Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, Gmail, Google Drive, and Internet research required
Bennington serves a diverse student population inclusive of members of ethnically/racially minoritized, international, LGBTQIA , and disability communities as well as diverse gender identities, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, and political beliefs. Our staff and faculty also reflect diverse and intersecting backgrounds and identities. All employees are expected to be respectful and responsive to these differences in the service of building community that promotes student and employee success and community cohesiveness. Each individual (faculty, staff and students) will be accountable for upholding these values. The College’s approach to pluralism and inclusivity—both as fields of inquiry and practice—is to prioritize flexible thought, and to invite the examination of access, value, power, and privilege through its institutional policies and areas of study. We encourage applicants from diverse realms of interest, backgrounds, experience, and accomplishment to apply.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
80% of work performed in a home office environment with substantial activities completed using a computer; sedentary work. 20% of work will be in-person meetings and presentations. Periodic travel required.
Note: The position requires the successful completion and acceptable results of a background check.
COMPENSATION:
$110,000-$120,000, commensurate with experience. Bennington College offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time staff that includes medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and long term disability insurance, retirement, generous time off benefits (4 weeks vacation, 10 sick days and 17 paid holidays) and educational benefits including Tuition Exchange.
TO APPLY
The position will remain open until filled; interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. Please submit resume, cover letter (addressed to Judith Enck, President) and the names/contact information for three current references (include at least two supervisory references).
Salary : $110,000 - $120,000
