Senior Specialist, Science and Innovation Programs (Space)

About the Role

The National Geographic Society advances global exploration through its diverse community of Explorers, supporting impactful research and conservation projects. The Science & Innovation team manages funding efforts, develops major mission programs, and builds partnerships focused on ocean, wildlife, land, human histories & cultures, and with expanding interests in planetary health and space exploration.

The Senior Specialist will support programmatic activities within the Science & Innovation division, focusing primarily on the Space portfolio while also contributing to other areas like Ocean, Wildlife, and Planetary Health. The role involves grant development and evaluation, service to Explorers, and collaboration across teams to drive mission alignment and program success. Candidates should possess strong curiosity, accountability, adaptability, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in strategic planning and adaptive management for the focus area portfolios, staying informed on trends and identifying gaps or opportunities.
• Support development and management of research and conservation Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Evaluate and recommend Level 1 and Level 2 research and conservation grants aligning with organizational priorities.
• Maintain positive relationships with Explorers, act as primary contact for Level 1 grants, and serve as internal subject matter expert.
• Communicate updates on discoveries and publications to amplify impactful outcomes.
• Identify operational issues, recommend improvements, support creation of streamlined workflows and tools.
• Manage data, perform research and validation, and assist with reports and dashboards to illustrate program impact.
• Help coordinate project schedules, budgets, contracts, and other administrative duties to ensure smooth program operations.
• Collaborate with internal divisions and external partners to enhance cross-organization initiatives and represent Science & Innovation in external forums.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, ocean science, engineering, space science, or related fields.
• Minimum four years’ experience in research, science, conservation, sustainability, or related sectors, preferably with wildlife or ocean focus.
• Understanding of scientific methods and ability to review and analyze technical research.
• Excellent oral and written communication, able to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Organizational capability to handle multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Proactive, adaptable, and collaborative work style with a positive attitude.
• Experience with tools such as Google Docs, Microsoft Office, Slack, Miro, and Airtable is advantageous.
• Skill in synthesizing information from various sources and presenting concise recommendations.
• Comfortable delivering presentations to varied sized groups.

Additional Information

The position is based in Washington, DC, requiring on-site presence. It supports the Society’s mission through collaborative grantmaking, program execution, and initiative leadership focused on global scientific exploration. There are no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Salary range: $65,500 to $69,000 annually with a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans with employer matching, paid time off, parental leave, wellness programs, and employee discounts.

Work Model: Hybrid work structure with mandatory in-office presence two days per week (Tuesday and Wednesday).

Eligibility: Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available.

The Society encourages applications from candidates whose experience aligns broadly with the role's skills and responsibilities, fostering inclusive growth.