About the job
Program Associate
Location: Sacramento, CA (Hybrid options available within CA)
Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports to: Deputy Director
About Us
The California Water Efficiency Partnership (CalWEP) is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to maximizing urban water efficiency and conservation. With over 200 members, ranging from water agencies and technology companies to nonprofits and service providers, CalWEP is recognized as a leading voice and trusted partner in California’s water future. We’re a small, collaborative team making a big impact through research, training, policy advocacy, and partnerships.
Why Join Us?
- You’ll contribute to shaping California’s water future.
- You’ll gain deep insight into policy, programs, and innovations that are making a difference statewide.
- You’ll grow alongside a passionate, supportive team that invests in your development.
- You’ll connect with a powerful network of change-makers in the water industry.
If you’re excited by the idea of making an impact, learning constantly, and working on meaningful projects, we encourage you to apply.
Position Overview
CalWEP is hiring a Program Associate to support the development and delivery of programs and services for our members. This is an entry-level position, ideal for candidates early in their careers who are ready to build experience in the water sector, public policy, or environmental nonprofit space.
You’ll collaborate with CalWEP’s team on everything from training logistics to content creation, program implementation, and member engagement. Over time, there is room to grow into a Program Coordinator and eventually a Program Manager, based on demonstrated skills, independence, and leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Program & Training Support
- Coordinate and execute logistics for professional training programs (e.g., Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper Training), including registration, platform setup (Zoom or in-person), material preparation, and post-training follow-up
- Conduct targeted outreach to landscapers, plumbers, irrigation contractors, and commercial businesses to recruit participants for CalWEP trainings and programs, including direct phone and email outreach
- Build and maintain relationships with trade professionals and business contacts to grow training attendance and expand CalWEP’s reach in the field
- Serve as on-site or virtual training support, helping manage events and troubleshoot real-time needs
- Assist in managing tracking systems to record participation, outcomes, and data for training sessions and program activities
- Collaborate with staff and partners to plan and pilot new member program offerings, such as workshops, peer exchanges, and office hours
Trainer Development Opportunity (QWEL)
- Participate in a QWEL training course with the opportunity to become a QWEL-certified instructor
- Upon certification and internal readiness, support delivery or instruction of QWEL courses with oversight from CalWEP’s senior staff or training partners
Resource & Tool Development
- Research, draft, and format implementation guides, FAQs, case studies, and policy summaries tailored to CalWEP’s diverse membership
- Interview member agencies to compile real-world examples for use in program materials and presentations
- Contribute to the design and rollout of new resources, including testing and feedback collection from members
Membership Engagement & External Relations
- Respond to member inquiries and provide technical assistance on basic program and resource topics
- Support recruitment of prospective members through online research, cold outreach, and email campaigns
- Attend (virtually or in-person) industry events and represent CalWEP in a professional, informed, and welcoming manner
Ideal Candidate
Who You Are
- Enthusiastic about water, climate, and public service
- Organized and detail-oriented with excellent follow-through
- Proactive, adaptable, and comfortable asking questions
- Curious and excited to learn new skills and concepts
- Effective communicator with strong writing and interpersonal abilities
- Enjoys working in a collaborative, fast-paced nonprofit setting
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
- Interest or background in water conservation, environmental policy, sustainability, urban planning, or a related field
- Strong research, writing, and organizational skills
- Experience with Microsoft Office (especially Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Familiarity with digital tools like WordPress, Mailchimp, Salesforce, or Canva a plus
- Spanish language skills a plus, but not required
Career Growth Path at CalWEP
CalWEP encourages internal promotion and staff development. Here’s how this position fits into our organizational growth structure:
- Program Associate, 0–2 years
- Entry-level; supports operations, logistics, and communications
- Program Coordinator, 2–5 years
- Works independently; manages discrete projects and develops resources
- Program Manager, 5+ years
- Leads programs; mentors staff; plans initiatives; interfaces with Board
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $55,000–$70,000 depending on experience annually, depending on experience and qualifications, plus a benefits package valued at ~$16,500/year.
Benefits Snapshot:
Here’s what CalWEP offers in addition to salary:
- Health & Wellness: ~$1,100/month employer contribution (~$13,200/year) toward medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employees may also elect to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for health or dependent care expenses.
- Retirement: 3% automatic 401(k) contribution (no match required) + up to an additional 3% year-end contribution (budget permitting).
- Paid Time Off: 2 weeks of paid vacation annually, ~9 days sick leave accrued annually, 13+ paid holidays each year (including MLK Jr. Day, Farm Worker Day, Juneteenth, and more)
- Leave Support: Paid bereavement leave for immediate family, Paid Family Leave for qualifying circumstances.
- Culture: A small, collaborative team where your contributions have impact, with opportunities for professional growth and development.
Equal Opportunity Employment
CalWEP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other protected classes.
Application Process
Applicants should email their résumés and cover letters describing their qualifications and interest in the position to work@calwep.org with the subject line “Program Associate Application.” The position is open until filled.
All applicants will be held in confidence with the hiring committee; reference checks and writing samples will be requested in later rounds of the interview process.
