Executive Director of Environmental Nonprofit on Long Island

Mastic Beach Conservancy is a is a 501(c)(3) dedicated environmental nonprofit committed to protecting and preserving the wetlands of Mastic Beach. Currently run entirely by passionate volunteers, we have successfully built a strong foundation for conservation and education efforts in this economically diverse area. Specifically, we are working with the local government to establish and maintain an ecologically sound waterfront parkland along the nearly seven miles of publicly accessible Mastic Beach shoreline.

As we enter our next phase of growth, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to help professionalize our operations, expand our reach, and secure the resources necessary for long-term sustainability.

In this role, you would work closely with our Board of Directors, all of whom helped start the organization and live locally, meaning they are extremely dedicated to this cause. You would be responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives, growing our fundraising and grant-writing capabilities, and leading the transition from a volunteer-led model to a more structured organization with a bigger budget. This role will begin as a consultant position, with the potential to evolve into a full-time leadership role as the organization expands.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate with the Board of Directors to define and execute the organization’s strategic vision and priorities. The crux of our mission is the establishment and ongoing maintenance of the above-mentioned waterfront parkland but also includes education and aquaculture initiatives.
• Fundraising & Grant Writing: Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and individual donations, to support organizational growth.
• Program Development & Oversight: Strengthen existing environmental conservation and education initiatives while identifying opportunities for new programs and partnerships. We currently have a number of programs including kelp farming, wetland cleanups, art and educational activities. Please refer to our website for more details about what we do.
• Community Engagement & Advocacy: Serve as the public face of the organization, building relationships with local stakeholders, community groups, and governmental agencies.
• Operational & Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and day-to-day operations, ensuring compliance with nonprofit best practices and regulations.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit leadership or an equivalent, particularly in the environmental conservation and/or education sectors.
• Proven success in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
• Strong strategic planning and organizational development skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including volunteers, board members, funders, and community partners.
• Familiarity with Eastern Long Island’s environmental landscape, particularly Mastic Beach and its wetlands, is highly preferred.
• Self-motivated, resourceful, and capable of driving initiatives forward with limited initial infrastructure.
• Based in or willing to travel frequently to Eastern Long Island.

Compensation & Structure: This position will initially be structured as a consultant role, with flexibility in hours and compensation depending on experience and availability. As the organization grows, we anticipate transitioning this into a full-time leadership position. We are open to discussing different working arrangements with qualified candidates.