Development Director

About the Organization: Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting clean water for present and future generations. As the watchdog for New Jersey’s 470-square-mile Upper Raritan River watershed, we safeguard a region spanning 38 municipalities across Hunterdon, Somerset, and Morris counties. More than 300,000 people rely directly on the natural resources of our watershed, and another 1.5 million residents downstream depend on the water we protect for their drinking water supply. RHA advances its mission through science, education, advocacy, land preservation, and stewardship. RHA is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Role and Responsibilities: RHA’s fundraising program supports a multi-million-dollar annual operating budget and has a growing base of individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners. The Development Director serves as RHA’s senior fundraising strategist, with significant autonomy to shape and lead revenue strategy. The Director collaborates closely with the Executive Director, the Board of Directors, and staff to drive innovative development strategies, build partnerships, and oversee a talented team that supports our organization’s mission and financial sustainability.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Development Strategy: Set the vision and goals for development. Spearhead the creation and execution of strategies to diversify funding sources and stimulate growth, with a focus on cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual donors, major gifts, corporate and foundation funding, and planned giving as growing revenue sources. Personally manage a portfolio of major and leadership-level donors while strengthening RHA’s emerging planned giving program.
• Team Leadership: Lead a team responsible for executing RHA’s fundraising strategy, including annual giving campaigns, grant acquisition, events, volunteer coordination, and communications. Provide clear direction, mentorship, and accountability to drive strong performance and professional growth across the development function.
• Data-Driven Efficiency: Cultivate a data-driven decision-making culture that optimizes internal processes and leverages tools like Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge to support efficient fundraising. Build and steward a robust pipeline of funders and partners aligned with RHA’s strategic priorities, mission, and values. Establish a structured approach to reporting and research to inform strategic donor-cultivation efforts.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate closely with the Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and Management Team to align development efforts with organizational objectives. Prepare reports for the Board, donor impact data, and presentations for meetings and planning sessions. Serve as the primary liaison for the Development Committee, providing staff and Board members with guidance on donor engagement and major gift solicitation. Be conversant in RHA’s programs and effectively communicate the Association’s mission and impact to inspire and attract new donors and funding sources. Serve as a visible ambassador for RHA, engaging donors, partners, and community leaders through site visits, events, and one-on-one cultivation meetings.
• Financial Oversight and Forecasting: Provide regular revenue forecasts and partner with Finance on the annual budget process. Proactively identify revenue risks and pursue new funding opportunities to align with operational goals. Exercise appropriate budget oversight and contribute to long-term financial planning and sustainability.

Experience and Qualifications include:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising or business development, preferably in leadership roles.
• Proven track record in individual giving, major gifts, grants, and fundraising strategy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including comfort with public speaking.
• Detail-oriented with strong time-management skills and the ability to work independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of stakeholders.
• Ability to develop and manage fundraising budgets.
• Experience in leading and motivating teams.
• Knowledge of Blackbaud platforms is a plus.
• Demonstrated commitment to RHA’s mission and goals.
• Sensitivity and ability to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Job Type: This full-time exempt position reports to the Executive Director and offers a hybrid schedule of three office days and two remote days. Occasional night and weekend hours are required.

Salary: Minimum $90,000. This represents the minimum salary. Raritan Headwaters Association is committed to hiring the most qualified candidate and is seeking candidates with exceptional experience and accomplishments. The final salary will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.

Benefits:

• 403(b) plan with matching contributions
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Professional development.

Work Location: RHA headquarters, Bedminster, NJ.

How to Apply: Please send a resume and letter of interest, including salary requirements or expectations, to Executive Director Mara Tippett at mtippett@raritanheadwaters.org.

Environmental Leaders Academy Guide (Seasonal)

Organization: Raritan Headwaters Association
Program Dates: July 27 – August 2, 2026 (7 days, overnight)
Location: The Pingry School, Pottersville, NJ
Compensation: $2,000 stipend (includes room and board)

About the Program

The Environmental Leaders Academy, a selective, week-long immersive experience for 25 highly motivated high school students (grades 10–12) who are passionate about conservation, ecology, and environmental science. Now in its third year, the program draws strong interest, with applicants selected through a competitive process including essays and recommendations.

Hosted on the beautiful campus of The Pingry School in Pottersville, the Academy combines hands-on field experiences, expert-led workshops, and collaborative project development. Students engage with scientists, conservation professionals, and creatives while exploring topics such as watershed science, wildlife ecology, sustainable agriculture, and environmental storytelling.

Activities throughout the week include:

• Stream assessments with Raritan Headwaters scientists
• Bat monitoring with ecologists from Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey
• A student film festival led by a professional filmmaker (hosted in a campus theater)
• Kayaking excursions and field visits
• A visit to a regenerative farm
• Conversations with local farmers, chefs, and food system professionals
• And more!

The program culminates in a student-led conservation project, where participants design actionable initiatives to implement in their own communities, supported by mentorship and systems-thinking exercises.

This year, the Academy is also deepening its commitment to sustainability by eliminating single-use plastics and incorporating locally sourced, organic food into meals—creating additional learning opportunities around sustainable food systems.

Position Overview

Guides play a vital role in creating a supportive, engaging, and fun learning environment for students. This is a dynamic, high-energy role that blends mentorship, facilitation, and residential life support.

Guides live on campus for the full duration of the program, are provided with private rooms and all meals, and work collaboratively with program staff to ensure a safe and meaningful experience for all participants.

Responsibilities

• Support and co-facilitate daily program activities, workshops, and field experiences
• Build positive relationships with students and foster a strong, inclusive community
• Mentor students as they develop their final conservation projects
• Assist with logistics and transitions between sessions and off-site trips
• Participate in and supervise recreational and evening activities
• Share in rotating dorm duty responsibilities, including ensuring students are in rooms at curfew
• Model enthusiasm, curiosity, and respect for the environment and others

Qualifications

• Experience working with high school-aged students (teaching, mentoring, camp counseling, or similar)
• Interest in environmental science, conservation, education, or related fields
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to be flexible, energetic, and team-oriented in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable living and working in a residential setting for one week

Preferred:

• Background in environmental education, ecology, or outdoor leadership
• Experience facilitating group discussions or experiential learning activities

Compensation & Benefits

• $2,000 stipend for the week
• Private room and all meals provided on campus
• Structured break schedule to support staff wellbeing
• Opportunity to work alongside scientists, educators, and environmental professionals
• Meaningful experience mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to be part of an inspiring, growing program that empowers young people to take action in their communities. Guides consistently describe the week as energizing, impactful, and deeply rewarding.

How to Apply

Learn more about the program here:
https://www.raritanheadwaters.org/highschool/

How to Apply: EMAIL ONLY: Please e-mail cover letter, resume and two references to Lauren Theis at LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

For more information, please email LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org or call 908-234-1852 x314

Environmental Educator (Part-Time, Seasonal) – 2026 School Year Programs

About the Position: Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA), a nonprofit environmental conservation organization based in Bedminster, New Jersey (near Gladstone), is seeking confident, enthusiastic, and motivated candidates to join our Education team beginning in March 2026. RHA Environmental Educators teach traveling ecology programs for students in elementary and middle school throughout Somerset, Hunterdon, and Morris County.

Educators become part of a passionate community dedicated to protecting clean water and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. This role offers meaningful experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a positive impact.

This position has a part-time, flexible schedule. Programs are mainly held in the spring and fall during regular school hours, with some programs occurring during the summer (option to participate in monthly family programs, summer camp, etc.).

Responsibilities: Teach environmental education programs to school groups both in the classroom and in outdoor settings at stream field sites. Programs are scheduled for you.

• Implement provided environmental lesson plans.
• Create new lesson plans and programs.
• Attend orientation and training sessions.
• Assist with cleanup and organize equipment after each use.
• Pick up, drop off, and/or transfer equipment as required.
• Be reasonably available as a substitute in case another educator calls in sick.

Qualifications: The following qualifications are preferred; however, any combination of these will be taken into consideration.

• Experience working with children in an educational setting and outdoors.
• Bachelor’s degree in education, environmental science, life sciences, or other related majors.
• Strong knowledge of natural resources.
• Good organizational skills and time management.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong interest and enthusiasm for the natural environment and desire to share it with others.
• Strong spirit of cooperation and teamwork.
• Must have own reliable transportation.

Hours: A flexible, varying schedule of 3–20 hours/week.

Term: March 1, 2026 (flexible start date) until the end of the school year spring term; option to continue into summer and fall.

Compensation: $21/hour

How to Apply (EMAIL ONLY): Please e-mail a cover letter, resume, and two references to Lauren Theis, Director of Education, at LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org. Please put “Environmental Educator Position” in the subject line of your message.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

For more information, please email LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org or call 908-234-1852 x314.

Camp Counselor (Part-Time, Seasonal) – Summer 2026

About the Position: Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA), a non-profit conservation organization located at Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve in Bedminster, NJ (near Gladstone), is seeking enthusiastic and creative Camp Counselors for the summer of 2026. Counselors will be responsible for implementing week-long sessions of RHA’s summer Nature Day Camp programs for children ages 3–16 under the direction of the Education Director. Lesson prep and orientation will take place in May–June. The camp is scheduled for the weeks of June 29 through August 14. Preference will be given to candidates who can participate in multiple week-long sessions of camp. RHA’s Education team works together to create all lesson plans, and RHA provides all materials.

Counselors become part of a passionate community dedicated to protecting clean water and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. This role offers meaningful experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a positive impact.

We encourage candidates to visit our website at www.raritanheadwaters.org to learn about our work, and www.raritanheadwaters.org/naturedaycamp to see more details about our camps (including this summer’s schedule).

Responsibilities: Teach outdoor environmental education programs to school groups and at our Nature Day Camp.

• Implement provided environmental lesson plans in the classroom and in outdoor settings. Programs include field trips, stream exploration programs, and summer camps.
• Option to collaborate on new lesson plans and programs.
• Attend orientation and training sessions.
• Assist with cleanup and organize educational supplies after each use.
• Pick up, drop off, and/or transfer educational supplies as required.
• Be reasonably available as a substitute in case another educator calls in sick.

Qualifications: The following qualifications are preferred; however, any combination of these will be taken into consideration.

• Experience working with children in an educational setting and outdoors.
• Completed or working toward a bachelor’s degree in education, environmental science, life sciences, or other related majors.
• Strong knowledge of natural resources.
• Good organizational skills and time management.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong interest and enthusiasm for the natural environment and desire to share it with others.
• Strong spirit of cooperation and teamwork.
• Must have own reliable transportation.

Hours: A part-time, flexible schedule of 30 hours/week Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Week-long sessions available to choose from between June 29 and August 14.

Location: Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Bedminster, NJ (near Gladstone).

Compensation: $21/hour

How to Apply (EMAIL ONLY): Please e-mail a cover letter, resume, and two references to Lauren Theis, Director of Education, at LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org. Please put “Camp Counselor Position” in the subject line of your message.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

For more information, please email LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org or call 908-234-1852 x314.

Counselor-in-Training (Part-Time, Seasonal) – Summer 2026

About the Position: Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA), a non-profit conservation organization located at Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve in Bedminster, NJ (near Gladstone), is seeking enthusiastic and creative teenagers to be Counselors-in-Training (CITs) for the summer of 2026. CITs support camp educators in delivering engaging, safe, and educational nature-based programming for campers. This role builds responsibility, teamwork, communication, and environmental stewardship skills.

Orientation will take place in May–June. The camp is scheduled for the weeks of June 29 through August 14. Preference will be given to candidates who can participate in multiple week-long sessions of camp. RHA’s Education team works together to create all lesson plans, and RHA provides all materials.

CITs become part of a passionate community dedicated to protecting clean water and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. This role offers meaningful experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a positive impact.

We encourage candidates to visit our website at www.raritanheadwaters.org to learn about our work, and www.raritanheadwaters.org/naturedaycamp to see more details about our camps (including this summer’s schedule).

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist counselors with daily camp activities, including nature hikes, crafts, games, and environmental education lessons.
• Help supervise campers to ensure a safe, inclusive, and positive camp environment.
• Model respectful behavior and positive leadership for younger campers.
• Support group management, transitions between activities, and camp routines.
• Participate in camp set-up and clean-up.
• Encourage camper participation and foster teamwork.
• Help implement environmental stewardship projects and outdoor learning experiences.
• Communicate concerns or incidents promptly to supervising staff.
• Serve as an ambassador for Raritan Headwaters’ mission of conservation and education.

Learning Opportunities: CITs will gain experience in:

• Youth mentorship and leadership
• Outdoor education and environmental science concepts
• Teamwork and communication
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving
• Camp safety procedures and risk management.

Qualifications: CITs should be:

• Age 16 and up
• Interested in working with children and in the outdoors
• Enthusiastic, responsible, and dependable
• Able to follow instructions and work as part of a team
• Willing to learn and accept feedback
• Comfortable spending extended time outdoors in varying weather.

Hours: A part-time, flexible schedule of 30 hours/week Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Week-long sessions available to choose from between June 29 and August 14.

Location: Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Bedminster, NJ (near Gladstone).

Compensation: $17/hour

How to Apply (EMAIL ONLY): Please e-mail a cover letter, resume, and two references to Lauren Theis, Director of Education, at LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org. Please put “CIT Position” in the subject line of your message.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

For more information, please email LTheis@raritanheadwaters.org or call 908-234-1852 x314.