The National Geographic Society is an impact-driven global nonprofit organization that pushes the boundaries of exploration to further our understanding of our planet and empower us all to generate solutions for a more sustainable future.
For 130 years, we’ve funded groundbreaking scientists and explorers and shared their findings with the world. We sponsored Hiram Bingham as he brought back stories from Machu Picchu, documented Robert Ballard’s quest to find the Titanic, and supported Jane Goodall’s study of chimpanzee behavior.
The National Geographic Society will be conducting a series of expeditions to some of the most extreme and inaccessible environments on Earth. Extreme environments, from the highest mountain peaks to the deepest parts of the ocean, to the coldest and the hottest places on Earth, are poorly understood, yet they are expected to be the most affected by global environmental and climate change. Exploration and monitoring of these extreme environments will be critical to improve our understanding of our global vulnerability and inform ways to mitigate risks.
The Expedition Specialist will report to and support the Director of Expeditions in planning and executing all logistics related to Life at the Extremes expeditions. The position will liaise and lead meetings with internal teams as needed, including Purchasing, Mailing Services, and Technology. The position will lead, and be responsible for, specific components of the large, marquee expeditions and will have responsibility for full execution of supporting expeditions.
- Expedition Support (50%). Support the execution of program-related expeditions. Assess and fulfill logistical needs related to team travel, expedition equipment and supplies, transport of gear and scientific samples, permit procurement, shipping, and other needs as determined by Director. Coordinate status updates and reporting to team members, both internal and external to the organization. Secure handling of information and data related to persons and equipment. Secure handling of data and information collection for carnets, when needed for specific countries. Assist with problem-solving related to transportation, storage, and distribution needed to run LATE expeditions according to specifications described in the corresponding science plan.
- Project Management (25%). Ensure process flow of logistics is operating as smoothly and efficiently as possible, and monitor the flow over time. Manage the day to day logistical needs of Life at the Extremes expeditions. Create and maintain strong working relationships with internal teams. Serve as day to day contact with internal divisions on expedition-related needs. Support Director of Expeditions across all aspects of expedition planning to ensure expedition and program objectives are met.Assist in creation of project/expedition work plans and budgets. Lead specific components of expeditions from start to finish at the direction of the Director, ensuring tight coordination and alignment with program objectives.
- Administrative Support(25%). Work with Life at the Extremes Coordinator to ensure vendor payments are accurate and on time. Keep the expedition-related portions of shared calendars, work plans, and other internal communications materials up to date. Support the creation and execution of contracts. Work with NG Procurement teams to ensure competitive bidding for large contracts, and maintain excellent relationships with vendors. In coordination with the Life At The Extremes Coordinator, processes invoices and payments and helps with other daily administrative tasks as needed.
- 3+ years. Experience with operations and supporting international expeditions in a dynamic environment preferred.
- Excellent coordination, communication, problem-solving, organizational, leadership, coaching and supervisor skills.
- Strong writing and oral communication skills.
- Exceptional professionalism and ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Demonstrate ability to anticipate problems and find creative solutions to challenging situations. Candidate needs to have the ability to perform in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. It is imperative to work as part of a team.
- Focused on quality, and detail-oriented.
- High analytical skills, be able to see patterns, be a fast thinker and a good decision maker. Strong willed, fast learner, and able to effect changes fast.
- Proficient in basic computer programs (including Office suite, Keynote) and social media.
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