Hiring: Director or Senior Director of Government Relations, New York State Company: Open Space Institute Location: Albany, NY Job Posted Time: 2026-09-12 14:20:43 Target Skills & Keywords : Microsoft Office About the job Experience: •8 years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public affairs, or environmental policy, preferably within the nonprofit or public sector. •10 years of relevant professional experience will be considered for the position at the Senior Director level. All other candidates will be considered for the position at the Director level. •At least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public affairs, or environmental policy, preferably within the nonprofit or public sector. •At least 10 years of relevant professional experience will be considered for the position at the Senior Director level. All other candidates will be considered for the position at the Director level. Required Skills: •Working closely with colleagues across the organization, the position will serve as OSI’s primary representative to New York State government, cultivating senior-level relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key partners to advance OSI’s policy objectives and strategic priorities. •Government Relations and Policy Implementation •Lead the development and implementation of OSI’s state policy, advocacy, and public funding strategies in collaboration with executive leadership, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and long-term conservation objectives. •Oversee the tracking and analysis of New York State legislation, budget items, and regulatory initiatives related to conservation funding (e.g., Environmental Protection Fund), climate resilience, public lands, and outdoor recreation. •Coordinate OSI’s representation with the Governor’s office, key state agencies, including DEC and OPRHP, and statewide coalitions addressing open space, parkland, and public access policies. •Serve as OSI’s senior representative and spokesperson in meetings with legislators, administration and agency leaders, and coalition partners. •Develop and deliver policy briefs, testimony, and correspondence articulating OSI’s positions to policymakers and partners. •Lead planning and strategy for OSI’s participation in key lobbying days and advocacy events, including EPF Lobby Day and Parks and Public Lands Advocacy Day. Qualifications: •Bachelor’s degree in public policy, environmental studies, government, or related field (Master’s degree preferred). •Deep familiarity and experience with New York State’s legislative, administrative, and budget processes. •Demonstrated success in leading complex advocacy, legislative, or public funding initiatives and influencing policy outcomes. •In-depth knowledge of conservation, land protection, parks, and outdoor recreation access policy. •Those with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience will be considered for the position at the Senior Director level. All other candidates will be considered for the position at the Director level. Compensation: •$140,000 - $190,000 / year Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!