The mission of the Alliance for the Great Lakes is to protect, conserve, and restore the Great Lakes, ensuring healthy water in the lakes and in our communities for all generations of people and wildlife.
The Water Resources Analyst (Analyst) is an integral part of the Alliance’s Water Resources team, supplying research and analysis to advance policy campaigns related to source water protection. With a particular focus on plastic pollution, PFAS, and other high-priority contaminants, the Analyst is committed to bringing scientific rigor to the Alliance’s work on behalf of people and ecosystems in the Great Lakes basin.
The Analyst works collaboratively with the Water Resources team to track, analyze and synthesize scientific research, policy developments, and regulatory trends in key geographies across the Great Lakes region. The Analyst brings a strong foundation in water quality science, paired with the ability to critically evaluate, interpret, and translate complex research into clear, actionable insights that advance issue-based campaigns. Leveraging rigorous research methodologies, innovative data visualization and applied policy analysis tools, the Analyst elevates technical information to support strategic decision-making and summarizes findings for diverse audiences, including policymakers, partners, and the public.
This position reports to the Director of Water Resources and works closely with Alliance staff across policy, government affairs, community partnerships, and communications to ensure research products are timely, credible, and strategically aligned, and that recommendations are effectively integrated into advocacy, outreach, and campaign efforts.
Knowledge/Skills
Bachelor’s degree required and 5+ years of relevant experience in research for environmental science, biology, toxicology, chemistry, environmental engineering, natural/water resources management, or related field. An advanced degree or demonstrated additional experience preferred
Strong research, data analysis and visualization skills, ability to convert analysis to different types of communication materials (e.g. talking points, blog posts, data visualization and graphics) that can be used as effective policy communication and storytelling tools that engage the media, Alliance supporters, and public officials
Ability to convey recommendations in concise, precise, and compelling written and data visualization work products
Willingness to listen and respond to the needs and demands of diverse groups of individuals and partner organizations
Excellent listening, written, and verbal communication skills
Motivated to work primarily internally and behind the scenes with Alliance staff
Adept with Microsoft Office Suite and project management software
Adhere to and exemplify the Alliance for the Great Lakes’ values of community, relationships, courage, integrity, optimism, and the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in all our work
The salary range for this position begins at $70,000, and we negotiate salaries with final candidates based on their experience in similar roles and expertise related to the qualifications.