Program Manager

Valley Advocates for Responsible Development is hiring a Program Manager in Driggs, ID. The role involves advocating for responsible land use, consulting with community members and developers, and supporting educational initiatives. Candidates should have a degree in a related field, experience in land use planning, and strong communication skills. The position focuses on preserving Teton Valley's rural character and promoting sustainable development practices.
Program Manager

What? Job Opportunity

Valley Advocates for Responsible Development (VARD) is seeking a smart, passionate, person to join our

team as Program Manager. Our ideal candidate is an advocate at their core – advocating for open spaces,

wild places, and vibrant communities through responsible land use planning. Our Program Manager

works with all staff, and the community, to educate and empower – and to ensure that prospective

developers are held accountable to the highest of development standards under local, state, and federal

law. Our prime candidate will be someone committed to using their skillset to protect Teton Valley’s rural

character and who is prepared to use a variety of planning strategies, research, policy advocacy, and

strategic approaches to support VARD’s mission. If you have skills not listed below, but you are the perfect

fit, please let us know how and why.

Why? About the Organization

VARD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Teton Valley, Idaho. We are a citizens’ group working to shape

policy, guide development, and provide outreach to preserve natural resources, protect rural character,

and promote vibrant communities in Teton Valley through civic action. VARD is a small organization and a

national leader in sustainable and restorative land use planning.

How? Program Manager Responsibilities

▪ Consulting with community members, developers, elected officials, staff, nonprofit partners, etc.,

advising them, as appropriate, of next steps in any given land use scenario.

▪ Representing the organization’s members at public hearings – preparing and providing written

and verbal comments.

▪ Program direction and priority project identification.

▪ Developing and providing self-help resources to assist those navigating land use planning and

enforcement processes.

▪ Working with other local nonprofits to advance responsible development practices in Teton Valley

and serving as a partner in collaborative projects.

▪ Supporting training and education initiatives that build the community’s ability to hold an active

role in shaping the community in which they live.

▪ Representing the organization in coalitions and in meetings with colleagues, partner

organizations, community members, and prospective developers.

▪ Assisting with communications.

▪ Assisting with organizing events.

▪ Assisting with other duties as assigned.

Who? Candidate Qualifications

▪ A Bachelor’s degree in land use planning, public administration, economics, environmental

studies, or similar field is required.

▪ A Master’s degree in land use planning, public administration, economics, environmental studies,

or similar field is preferred.

▪ Experience in land use planning, advocacy, nonprofit, leadership, fundraising, donor relationships

(may be a combination of all).

▪ Demonstrated commitment to responsible land use planning, open spaces, agricultural lands, and

preservation of wildlife habitat.

▪ Excellent research skills, analysis, public speaking, and writing ability.

▪ Ability to think strategically, explore creative solutions to problems, and communicate effectively

with colleagues, partners, and policymakers.

▪ Ability to work collaboratively with community educators and organizers.

▪ A sense of humor in stressful situations. This one is non-negotiable.

How Much? Salary & Benefits

Salary is negotiable. The position will require 30 hours per week on average, with a flexible work

environment, and priority projects talking the bulk of time. Health insurance and cell phone stipends.

Other Information: This position is based in Teton Valley, Idaho and Wyoming. It will require occasional

travel throughout the region. Attendance at evening hearings is required and are attended either in

person or via Zoom, depending on the agenda.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample not to

exceed 3 pages (please) to niki@tetonvalleyadvocates.org. In your cover letter, please let us know why

you’re interested in this role and which skills you believe will make you successful.

Commitment to Equity: Valley Advocates for Responsible Development is an Equal Opportunity

Employer.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to Niki Richards – niki@tetonvalleyadvocates.org.