Montana Water Program Director

Position Summary

TU is hiring a motivated and highly capable person to manage and grow our Montana Water Program. This position advances TU's mission by reforming Montana and federal water policy to support instream flow and conserve coldwater fisheries.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and guide priorities for TU’s Montana Water Program, which includes supervision of four or more staff and a budget of $1-2M per year.
• Align work plans and performance expectations, facilitate staff professional development opportunities, and create an inclusive, supportive work environment.
• Work in coordination with the State Director, Restoration Director, and functional area staff (e.g., legal, science, finance, human resources, and communications), to develop complementary goals, establish coordinated workplans, provide performance feedback, and assist with task prioritization and project implementation.
• Cook up and coordinate with the State Director, VP of Rocky Mountain Region, and Development staff to identify and secure program and project funding from government, corporate and philanthropic sources, which includes writing grant proposals and communicating directly with funders.
• Cook closely with the State Director, Montana Policy and Advocacy Manager, and Montana TU staff to identify and implement water policy initiatives and legislative priorities.
• Supervise and coordinate litigation strategies with the legal team.
• Establish and maintain productive and strategic relationships with decision makers and partners, such as key elected officials, policymakers, the media, resource managers, property owners, donors, and conservation organizations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with TU’s members and grassroots leaders.
• Prepare grant and permit reports summarizing activities, deliverables, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Develop and maintain accurate budgets and manage projects and programs within them.
• Cultivate successful partnerships to advance TU restoration and policy objectives in Montana.

Requirements

• Seven or more years of conservation nonprofit leadership experience, or similar experience in the public or private sector.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated success in building, leading, and managing interdisciplinary teams, particularly in a remote work environment.
• Understanding of western water law and experience working with water users and water management agencies.
• Understanding of coldwater fisheries conservation, including the concepts and practices of stream restoration and watershed function.
• Understanding and experience in natural resource policy and management issues related to watershed health and fisheries conservation.
• Understanding and experience working in the political context in Montana to advance TU’s conservation work and inform program goals, strategies, and tactics.
• Proven ability to fundraise and manage budgets.
• Experience managing contracts and funding agreements.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.
• Ability to work with multiple and diverse partners in a highly collaborative and inclusive manner on contentious issues.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently.
• Passion for the outdoors and Trout Unlimited’s mission.

Background Check

A background check will be required prior to employment.

Salary Description

Staff and leadership at TU understand that life outside of work is important to personal health, and we strive to create a healthy and family-friendly atmosphere. This is a full-time position with a generous benefits package, as well as reimbursement for work-related travel at standard state/federal rates. The starting salary range is $90,000-$105,000 depending on experience, qualifications, and location. Title and compensation decisions are dependent on several factors including, but not limited to, an individual’s qualifications and experience level, internal equity, alignment with market data, and geographic differences.

How To Apply

Please provide a resume, cover letter, and list of three references to Trout Unlimited via our online job application system by July 21, 2026. Application will remain open until filled.