About PERC
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) is the national leader in market solutions for conservation, with over 40 years of research and a network of respected scholars and practitioners. Through research, law and policy, and innovative field conservation programs, PERC explores how aligning incentives for environmental stewardship produces sustainable outcomes for land, water, and wildlife. Founded in 1980, PERC is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and proudly based in Bozeman, Montana.
This is a transformational time at PERC. Our nimble team is growing in all departments to support our ambitious goal of inspiring the next era of conservation in America based on incentives and innovation. Read more.
Position Description
PERC is hiring a Senior Researcher specializing in water conservation, water policy, or related topics. Primary tasks include conducting research studies and writing projects such as policy reports, data analyses, legal analyses, popular writing, and/or applied market design.
The ideal candidate will be hard working, self-motivated, and passionate about market approaches to water conservation and policy. An ability to take initiative and execute on in-depth, detail-oriented projects is essential. Emphasis will be placed on candidates who have demonstrated strong research and writing skills, a knack for connecting research insights to real-world issues, and a passion for finding creative solutions to conservation challenges.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct in-depth research on issues related to water conservation, policy, or law (50%)
- Author a variety of outputs tailored to PERC’s target audiences, including policymakers, conservation practitioners, and the general public (40%)
- Engage in research communication through public presentations, shorter-form writing, and media and other stakeholder engagement (10%)
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Advanced degree in a relevant field such as economics, law, public policy, environmental science, or a related discipline
- Strong writing and communication skills and attention to detail
- Enthusiasm for and knowledge of market approaches to conservation and environmental policy
- Interest in research and an ability to deliver compelling messages to non-academic audiences
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications
- Three or more years of experience working on water conservation, policy, law, or related issues
- Demonstrated experience in water conservation policy, applied research, or market-based conservation strategies
Travel Requirements
- Some regular travel by car and airplane is required
Working Conditions
- Business office environment with moderate noise
- Will sit or stand at a desk
- Work on a computer, use a telephone, and other general office equipment
- Lift and carry up to 25 pounds
Location
This is a full-time exempt position located in Bozeman, Montana, though remote work arrangements may be considered for exceptional candidates.
Perks of Working at PERC
- Great health (platinum, gold, and silver plans), vision, and dental benefit choices for employees and family
- Flex/FSA or HSA offered
- 5% 401(k) PERC contribution
- PERC contributed life insurance
- Voluntary additional life insurance
- Voluntary accident insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Paid vacation and sick days
- 12 paid holidays
- Discounted gym membership
- Ability to work with an impactful conservation organization, dedicated to positive environmental outcomes
To Apply
Send us your resume, cover letter, and two research or writing samples to employment@perc.org. Interested in other research roles? We are also hiring a Senior Researcher (Wildlife Expert), Senior Researcher (Public and Private Lands Expert), and Senior Researcher (Conservation and Policy).
Not sure if you meet all the job qualifications? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other under-represented groups tend not to apply to jobs when they think they may not meet every qualification when, in fact, they often do. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment and strongly encourage you to apply.
