The National Geographic Society is an impact-driven global nonprofit organization that pushes the boundaries of exploration, furthering understanding and empowering us all to generate solutions for a healthy, more sustainable future for generations to come. Our ultimate goal: a planet in balance.
The Society has a long history of connecting people with the wonders of the world and our human story. Through a combination of strong science and exploration, education and storytelling, we are uniquely positioned to contribute in the following areas: exploring the natural world and our place in it; educating audiences to appreciate and value culture and nature; inspiring people through unparalleled storytelling; and empowering changemakers to drive progress and secure a diverse and healthy planet.
We organize our work through three lenses: (1) Human Journey, (2) Wildlife and (3) Changing Planet. Human Journey focuses on understanding where we have come from, our relationship to the natural world and each other, and where we are going as a species. Wildlife focuses on valuing and protecting species diversity. Changing Planet focuses on understanding ecosystem changes and securing the Earth’s natural systems, which are essential for all life.
The Science and Exploration team oversees the National Geographic Society’s grantmaking efforts; develops and manages major operating programs; directs and builds the capacity of our network of grantees; and is responsible for the development and execution of National Geographic Labs. The Science and Exploration team is composed of a number of departments, including: Grants Program, Explorer Programs, Operating Programs, National Geographic Labs and International.
The Coordinator, Science & Exploration provides administrative and programmatic support to the VP, Operating Programs on the day-to-day management of the Office of the Chief Scientist and Operating Programs priorities and team needs. This position assists in the development of presentation materials, background research, monthly and quarterly reports, and other activities in support of the programs group. Coordinates internal meetings, event and travel planning, payments to outside vendors, and related follow-up across a diverse group of staff, fellows, and grantees and with key internal departments.
- Administrative Support. Provides administrative support to the VP, Operating Programs and Program Directors on the day-to-day management of staff, fellows, grantees, and programmatic activities. This includes payments to outside vendors, meeting scheduling, event/meeting planning and related follow-up. (40%)
- Project Management support. Support the development and management of key programs and projects. Work with VP and Program Directors, team members, Explorers, subject matter experts and other key stakeholders to execute program needs. Liaise with internal divisions and external partners on program related content and needs. (30%)
- Research and Analysis. Work closely with the VP and Chief Scientist on regular research projects to inform strategy and decision-making. Perform as needed research on potential partner organizations, program subject areas, and organizational networks. (30%)
- Candidate should have 2+ years work experience supporting programs or process management role.
Knowledge and Skills Required
- Excellent oral and written communications skills, excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail.
- Creative thinking and responsive problem-solving.
- Flexibility, attention to detail, and proactive demeanor.
- Ability to be a self-starter, operate independently, multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
- Good computer skills across suite of office computer programs including Microsoft Word and Excel and Keynote/PowerPoint, and experience conducting online, library and archival research.
- Demonstrated interest in the priority areas of the National Geographic Society.