Reporting to the Director for Changing Planet, the Program Officer’s (PO) primary responsibility is administering and developing the innovative grant making of the Explorer and RFP Grants programs for the lens. In collaboration with the Grants Program, Grants Operations, and Operating Programs teams, the PO is responsible for monitoring and overseeing the daily operations of Research and Conservation grants related to the disciplines of Ecology, Conservation, and Earth Sciences. The PO ensures consistency and timely grant processing of Explorer and RFP Grant applications, and recruits new applicants and projects from the disciplines mentioned above. Preferred candidates will hold higher degrees in related field preferably with a focus on conservation, biodiversity, ecology, or sustainability, ideally with database and/or grants experience.
- Reviews applications within the Changing Planet lens for Explorer and RFP grants. Identifies qualified requests based on eligibility, project plan accuracy, viability of methodology, relevance and significance of the topic, and alignment with lens priorities. (45%)
- Provides feedback to potential grant applicants before grant proposal submission, including improvements for project planning and design. Provides technical and specific support to these grantees during all phases of the grant process from application through project implementation and reporting. (20%)
- Provides scientific support to NGS management related to topics within the lens. Serves as expert consultant for NGP topic-based strategy groups. (5%)
- Supports Senior Director of Changing Planet Grants in the design of strategic priorities, planning new initiatives, and adaptively managing overall vision and metrics of grant portfolio. Consults on strategy when requested by Senior Director. (5%)
- Excellent multitasking and interpersonal skills essential.
- Oral and written communication skills are a necessity as is proficiency with MS Office.
- Familiarity with grants management databases preferred, ideally SalesForce.
- Strong understanding of scientific method, knowledge of current trends in ecosystem conservation and earth science research is required.