Kentucky Waterways Alliance

What is Kentucky Waterways Alliance?

Kentucky Waterways Alliance (KWA) is a nonprofit organisation founded in 1993 and headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The organisation is dedicated to protecting and restoring Kentucky's rivers, lakes, and streams through a combination of watershed management, community organising, environmental education, and policy advocacy.

For over three decades, KWA has been the leading voice for water quality and waterway protection in the Commonwealth. The organisation works with communities, landowners, government agencies, and partner organisations to address water pollution, promote sustainable land use, and ensure that all Kentuckians have access to clean, safe water.

Where will I work?

Kentucky Waterways Alliance is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, and operates a hybrid work model. Team members combine office-based work and field activities with remote flexibility. The nature of watershed management work involves both desk-based policy and planning work and hands-on field monitoring and community engagement across the state.

What is the KWA team like?

With approximately 10 employees, Kentucky Waterways Alliance is a small but impactful team of environmental scientists, watershed coordinators, policy advocates, and community organisers. Team members are passionate about water quality, conservation, and environmental justice, bringing expertise in hydrology, ecology, public policy, and grassroots organising.

The small team size means everyone wears multiple hats and has a direct, visible impact on the organisation's mission. The culture is collaborative, field-oriented, and deeply connected to the Kentucky communities they serve.

Work-Life Balance

Kentucky Waterways Alliance operates a 4-day work week with 32 hours per week at full salary. This progressive schedule reflects the organisation's understanding that conservation work requires both dedication and rest. The 4-day week helps maintain team resilience and prevents burnout in demanding environmental advocacy work.

Perks and Benefits

• 4-day work week (32 hours) at full salary
• Healthcare benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Meaningful environmental conservation work
• Hybrid work flexibility
• Field work across Kentucky's waterways