Project Manager, International Coastal Cleanups

Ocean Conservancy
Ocean Conservancy

Operations

Washington, DC, USA

USD 80k-90k / year

Posted on Jul 24, 2026

POSITION TITLE: Project Manager, International Coastal Cleanups

DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM: Ending Ocean Plastics Program

REPORTS TO: Associate Director, Conservation Cleanups

STATUS: Regular, Full Time, Exempt

LOCATION: Hybrid - Washington, D.C.

ABOUT OCEAN CONSERVANCY

For more than 50 years, Ocean Conservancy has delivered effective, evidence-based solutions for the ocean and all who depend on it. Today, we continue to unite science, people and policy to protect our ocean from the greatest challenges it faces: climate change, plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. We are a 501(C)3 headquartered in Washington, D.C. that inspires a worldwide network of partners, advocates and supporters through our comprehensive and clear-eyed approach to ocean conservation. Together, we are securing a healthy ocean and a thriving planet, forever and for everyone.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Project Manager, International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) is responsible for leading the planning, coordination and execution of high-impact cleanup initiatives, partner activations and strategic conservation projects across Ocean Conservancy’s global cleanup portfolio. This role sits at the intersection of project management, event execution, stakeholder engagement and operational logistics, serving as a central driver of complex, multi-layered initiatives from concept through completion.

Working within the Ending Ocean Plastics (EOP) team, the Project Manager will contribute to a diverse portfolio of work including NOAA-funded marine debris removal projects, corporate-supported cleanup activations, community partnerships and key operational priorities tied to the ICC. This role requires a detail-oriented and highly adaptable professional who can manage moving pieces across internal teams, external partners and field operations while maintaining a high standard of execution.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead the planning and execution of conservation cleanup projects and events across domestic and international locations, managing timelines, logistics and stakeholder coordination.
  • Maintain, strengthen and streamline database management and logistical processes to improve efficiency, communication and execution.
  • Support management of NOAA-funded marine debris removal projects, ensuring deliverables, budgets and reporting requirements remain on track and aligned with grant expectations (40%-50% of time anticipated).
  • Develop and manage complex project plans, workback schedules, run-of-show documents and operational trackers for multiple simultaneous initiatives.
  • Oversee seamless project delivery and alignment across the program.
  • Engage in the development of the annual International Coastal Cleanup Report by coordinating content submissions, managing project timelines and drafting report sections and supporting materials.
  • Manage relationships and engage confidently with local cleanup partners, corporate supporters, contractors, grantees and community stakeholders to support successful execution, manage expectations and contribute to long-term partnership growth.
  • Represent Ocean Conservancy on the ground at cleanup activations, partner meetings, conferences and strategic events
  • Track and manage project data including participation metrics, debris collection outcomes, budget tracking and program performance indicators.
  • Maintain and update databases related to partner contacts, project management, volunteer participation, debris collection and program outcomes to support planning, reporting and operational efficiency.
  • Prepare reports and project updates for internal leadership, federal funders, corporate partners and key stakeholders.
  • Support strategic planning and operational development for new cleanup initiatives, program growth opportunities and partner activations.
  • Identify risks, troubleshoot challenges and adapt quickly to evolving operational needs in dynamic environments.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/ SKILLS/COMPETENCIES

  • 4 to 6 years of experience in project management, event management, stakeholder engagement, logistics or a related field required.
  • Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders, competing priorities and firm deadlines.
  • Experience planning and executing events or field-based initiatives, including logistics, vendor coordination and on-site operations.
  • Knowledge of federal grants or other government-funded projects preferred.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to build productive relationships across internal teams and external partners
  • Experience tracking project budgets, timelines, data and performance metrics using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% of the time, including domestic and international travel, with occasional evenings and weekends.
  • Valid driver's license and passport required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and assist with the physical setup and breakdown of event materials and equipment.
  • Passion for the marine environment and a commitment to eliminating trash from the ocean.

EDUCATION

  • Bachelor’s Degree and appropriate professional experience.

COMPENSATION

Ocean Conservancy is committed to fair pay practices and posts expected salary ranges for each of its positions. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s specialty skills, years of experience, location, and unique background. The expected salary range for this role is $80,000 - $90,000 annually. We would welcome the opportunity to connect with potential candidates whose salary requirements may be outside of the expected range.

TO APPLY

If you think you’d be a great fit for the job and are interested in joining Ocean Conservancy’s team, please apply here. Please include a resume and cover letter in one file on your application.

HYBRID WORK ENVIRONMENT

Ocean Conservancy embraces a hybrid work environment, which allows our staff the flexibility to work virtually and in-person while building strong connections across the institution.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Ocean Conservancy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We encourage applicants who have a diverse level and range of relevant skills and experiences to apply. A 100% match is not required. We want to support employees’ career growth and in return, our employees help Ocean Conservancy grow into a stronger, more inclusive institution.

See more open positions at Ocean Conservancy