Environmental Defense Fund Hiring Director, Agriculture Policy | Salary Up to $153,000

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is seeking an experienced Director, Agriculture Policy to lead innovative policy solutions aimed at reducing the environmental impacts of agriculture and advancing climate-smart farming practices. This senior leadership opportunity is open to candidates based in Washington, D.C. on a hybrid schedule, while fully remote applicants may also be considered if they can travel to Washington, D.C. for important meetings.

The position is a two-year fixed-term contract with full benefits and possible extension, offering a competitive salary range of $143,000–$153,000 USD per year. EDF is looking for a strategic leader with deep expertise in agricultural policy, fertilizer management, climate solutions, stakeholder engagement, and global environmental initiatives.

About Environmental Defense Fund

Environmental Defense Fund is a leading global nonprofit organization working to create practical solutions to climate change, pollution, and environmental challenges. With a team of more than 1,000 employees across nearly 30 countries, EDF partners with communities, governments, businesses, and organizations to develop science-based solutions that protect the planet.

The organization focuses on combining research, policy advocacy, partnerships, and innovation to address some of the world’s most urgent environmental issues.

The Director, Agriculture Policy will become a key leader within EDF’s Climate-Smart Agriculture team and the Agriculture, Water, and Food (AWF) focus area, helping shape strategies that reduce agricultural emissions while supporting sustainable food systems.

Role Overview

Agriculture contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, with fertilizer overuse and methane emissions being major contributors. The Director, Agriculture Policy will lead EDF’s efforts to design and implement effective agricultural policies in the United States and globally.

The successful candidate will help strengthen EDF’s leadership in:

• Agricultural policy development.
• Climate-smart agriculture strategies.
• Sustainable fertilizer management.
• Environmental markets and innovation.
• Global agriculture partnerships.
• Climate mitigation solutions.

This position requires a combination of technical expertise, strategic leadership, fundraising ability, and strong collaboration skills.

Key Responsibilities

The Director, Agriculture Policy will be responsible for leading high-impact initiatives, including:

• Developing agricultural policy strategies and implementation plans.
• Leading efforts focused on cropland management and fertilizer use.
• Advising policymakers, partners, and stakeholders on agricultural solutions.
• Identifying emerging agriculture and climate trends.
• Designing strategies to reduce environmental impacts from farming.
• Building partnerships with:
  • Government agencies.
  • Universities.
  • NGOs.
  • Agricultural organizations.
  • Community stakeholders.
• Supporting fundraising efforts through:
  • Developing grant proposals.
  • Building donor relationships.
  • Tracking project outcomes.
• Managing consultants, budgets, and project execution.
• Guiding and developing staff within the agriculture team.
• Coordinating across EDF departments to achieve organizational goals.
• Representing EDF as a thought leader through:
  • Public speaking.
  • Research publications.
  • Policy discussions.
  • Opinion articles.

The Director will also play a key role in ensuring agriculture policies address climate change while promoting equity, inclusion, and community engagement.

Required Qualifications and Experience

EDF is seeking a highly experienced professional with strong expertise in agriculture and environmental policy.

Candidates should have:

• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience.
• A Bachelor’s degree required; a Master’s degree may substitute for up to two years of experience.
• Deep knowledge of agriculture policy and fertilizer use.
• Experience leading complex strategic programmes.
• Proven ability to manage teams and multiple projects.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Experience building relationships with:
  • Government institutions.
  • Research organizations.
  • Nonprofits.
  • Agricultural stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience working across diverse cultures and stakeholder groups.
• Willingness to travel when required.

Candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking, leadership capability, and the ability to create partnerships that deliver measurable environmental impact.

Benefits and Compensation

Environmental Defense Fund provides a comprehensive rewards package designed to support employee wellbeing and professional growth.

Benefits include:

• Salary range of $143,000–$153,000 USD annually.
• Full benefits package.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Fixed-term employment with possible extension.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Opportunity to contribute to global climate solutions.

EDF values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration while creating an environment where employees can make meaningful contributions to environmental progress.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• An updated resume.
• A cover letter explaining personal interest in the role and EDF’s mission.
• An individual writing sample, if available.

Applications with cover letters and writing samples will receive strong consideration.

The position reference number is:

REQ-002542

Applications are currently open, and candidates are encouraged to apply through the EDF careers portal.

Final Thoughts

The Environmental Defense Fund’s Director, Agriculture Policy opportunity provides an exciting platform for an experienced agriculture and climate policy leader to influence global environmental solutions. By combining scientific expertise, strategic partnerships, and innovative policy approaches, the successful candidate will help shape a more sustainable future for agriculture.

Professionals with extensive experience in agricultural policy, climate-smart solutions, and stakeholder engagement are encouraged to apply for this senior leadership role offering competitive compensation, flexible remote options, and the opportunity to create lasting environmental impact.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Join Our WhatsApp Community

Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of  emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.