The Innovation Challenge Program Officer (PO) will support all activities within the National Geographic Society’s Innovation Challenge portfolio. Reporting to the Vice President of Grants, the Program Officer’s primary responsibility is administering the Challenge process, from selection through awards. In collaboration with the National Geographic Labs and the Grant Operations teams, the PO is responsible for managing and overseeing the daily operations of NGS Innovation Challenges. The PO ensures consistency and timeliness of procedures, prepares reports, disseminates results to interested parties; and is the liaison between applicants, judges, mentors, and internal NGS and NGP divisions. Preferred candidates will hold higher degrees in applied science or engineering. Ideal candidates should also have a working knowledge of innovation challenge programs.
- Responsible for managing the Innovation Challenge review and awarding process, including all internal workflows, events, supporting communications, project planning, implementation, and monitoring. Communicates and coordinates with Judges and Mentors to ensure review processes are efficient and effective. (50%)
- Serves as primary contact for applicants and oversees interactions with a portfolio of approximately 30 challenge winners. Provides technical and logistical support during all phases of the process from application through project implementation and reporting. (20%)
- Provides logistical and administrative support for planning meetings, coordinating travel, reimbursing travelers, etc. (15%)
- Promotes the Challenges portfolio through all NGS/NGP departments by notifying them of winners and highlighting projects with good media potential. Communicates with winners to identify story/media opportunities and stays apprised of progress, high profile engagements and/or media-friendly results. (5%)
- Provides strategic and research support to NGS management related to Innovation Challenges. Performs other tasks as required. (10%)
- 5+ years of related experience. Experience with science or technology administration, Innovation Challenge management, or technology incubation and acceleration preferred.
The PO will work across all disciplines, but particularly with engineers, innovators, and technologists.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Must be a self-driven, creative, highly organized, and motivated individual; strong team player; effectively prioritizes tasks and meets deadlines.
- Must be comfortable with ambiguity and have the ability, flexibility, and proactive demeanor to work through issues and solve problems in a changing environment.
- Strong computer skills across suite of programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, Keynote/PowerPoint, G Suite, and databases.
- Familiarity with Salesforce or comparable grants management systems is preferred.
- Experience conducting online, library, and/or archival research.
- Strong understanding of the scientific method. Understanding of and commitment to the program areas and mission of the National Geographic Society.
National Geographic's headquarters is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. In addition to a unique and dynamic work environment, National Geographic offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental benefits, generous vacation and leave time, a 401(k) plan, and flexible work options. National Geographic is an Equal Opportunity Employer