Director, Climate Adaptation

DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE

POSITION DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Director, Climate Adaptation

 SALARY: $127,000 - $143,000

 FLSA: Exempt

DEPARTMENT: Center for Conservation Innovation

LOCATION: Headquarters, Washington, DC

REPORTS TO: VP, Conservation Research and Innovation

NUMBER OF DIRECT AND INDIERCT REPORT(S): 1 direct, 1 indirect

LAST REVISED: JUNE 2026

POSITION SUMMARY

The accelerating effects of climate change are among the greatest obstacles to protecting and restoring wildlife at risk of extinction. The Center for Conservation Innovation (CCI) at Defenders of Wildlife is seeking an interdisciplinary leader to serve as Director of Climate Adaptation and help advance science-based strategies that address these challenges. 

Reporting to the Vice President of Conservation Research and Innovation, the Director is a leader within CCI responsible for guiding Defenders’ efforts to address the impacts of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems. The Director will manage a small team of scientists and policy analysts dedicated to aligning climate and biodiversity objectives to enhance the protection of at-risk species and their habitats across the United States. This includes applying climate science, social science, and policy analysis to develop innovative approaches to conservation planning and decision-making. 

The Director will lead and collaborate on applied research initiatives focused on understanding climate change impacts on wildlife and ecosystems, nature-based solutions, wildlife-compatible energy development, ecosystem resilience, and species adaptation. Working closely with CCI’s Conservation Science and Technology teams, as well as legal, field, and policy staff across the organization, the Director will ensure that the latest climate science and policy strategies are effectively integrated into Defenders’ conservation, advocacy, and field-based efforts.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and an effective communicator with experience in leading interdisciplinary teams. They possess a strong background in climate adaptation and conservation, including expertise in ecological, social, or economic dimensions of conservation decision-making and have a demonstrated ability to bridge disciplines and engage diverse stakeholder groups. This individual is expected to think creatively, work collaboratively, and successfully advance innovative solutions to complex conservation challenges.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leads and develops a team of scientists and analysts:

Leads climate science and policy analyses to improve wildlife conservation:

Advances conservation through partnerships and collaboration:

Communicates and shares results and conservation implications:

Travel Requirements: up to 5% of the time.

Perform all other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Advanced degree (MS/PhD) or equivalent (Master’s degree in relevant field or equivalent required)

Experience: At least 8 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years managing staff and leading complex interdisciplinary projects.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities for All Defenders

https://defenders.org/knowledge-skills-and-abilities

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities for Director of Climate Adaptation

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES, ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Activities

Frequency

(N)Never, (O)Occasionally or (C)Constantly

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like. 

N 

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces. 

N 

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods. 

C 

Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another. 

N 

Adjusting or moving objects up to 10 pounds in all directions. 

O 

Communicating with others to exchange information. 

C 

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers. 

C 

Operating machinery and/or power tools. 

N 

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment. 

N 

Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned. 

C 

Environmental Conditions

Frequency

(N)Never, (O)Occasionally or (C)Constantly

Low temperatures. 

High temperatures. 

Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind. 

Noisy environments. 

Hazardous conditions. 

Poor ventilation. 

Small and/or enclosed spaces. 

No adverse environmental conditions expected. 

C 

Physical Demands

Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing. 

X 

Light work that includes moving objects up to 10 pounds. 

Medium work that includes moving objects up to 50 pounds. 

Visit www.defenders.org to apply.

All employees are required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities of their positions. The essential duties and responsibilities listed above are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

It is the policy of Defenders of Wildlife to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, veterans' status or and any other legally protected class, characteristic or trait per applicable federal, state, or local law.

Please be advised this position is non-union eligible.