Program Assistant Forest & Climate Initiative Washington

Introduction: Join a Mission-Driven Force for Global Change

In an era defined by environmental challenges, the work of strategic, focused philanthropy has never been more critical. The Climate and Land Use Alliance (CLUA) stands at the forefront of this effort, dedicated to addressing the intertwined crises of climate change and unsustainable land use. We believe that forests and sustainable land use are essential to securing a prosperous, equitable, and healthy future for all.

This is not just another administrative role; it is a unique opportunity to become an integral part of a dynamic, globally distributed team. As a part-time Program Assistant, you will provide the essential operational and administrative support that enables our experts to design and implement high-impact strategies. If you are a highly organized, proactive, and mission-driven individual seeking a flexible, remote opportunity to contribute meaningfully to one of the world’s most pressing issues, we invite you to explore this role further.

Who We Are: The Climate and Land Use Alliance

The Climate and Land Use Alliance is a collaborative of some of the world’s leading philanthropic foundations. Our mission is to catalyze the potential of forests and land use to mitigate climate change, benefit people, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable development.

We operate on the core principle that the well-being of people and the health of the planet are inextricably linked. Our work is organized around several key initiatives:

• Forests and Climate: Promoting policies and practices that reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

• Sustainable Land Use: Supporting transitions to agricultural and land-use models that are productive, equitable, and environmentally sound.

• Rights and Resources: Advancing the land and resource rights of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, who are often the most effective stewards of natural ecosystems.

• Finance and Markets: Redirecting financial flows away from activities that drive deforestation and toward sustainable land use and forest conservation.

By joining our team, you become a part of this vital, collaborative effort to create lasting, systemic change.

Your Role: Program Assistant (Part-time, 50%)

As a Program Assistant, you will be the operational backbone for a designated program team. Your work will ensure the smooth execution of grants, the efficient organization of team activities, and the seamless flow of communication with a diverse network of partners and grantees around the world. This role is designed for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a support capacity and takes pride in enabling the success of others.

Key Responsibilities:

Your day-to-day activities will be varied and critical to our mission, encompassing four primary areas:

1. Grant Management and Administrative Support:

• Provide comprehensive administrative support for the grant-making process, from initial inquiry to final reporting.

• Draft, prepare, and process grant agreements, contracts, and other legal documents with meticulous attention to detail.

• Manage the entry of grant data into our database systems, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Schedule and coordinate complex meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and tracking action items.

• Handle routine email correspondence and serve as a point of contact for grantee inquiries.

2. Program and Financial Coordination:

• Assist program staff in monitoring grantee reports and deliverables, helping to track progress against strategic objectives.

• Support the team in preparing for internal reviews and strategy sessions by compiling necessary documents and data.

• Help coordinate the processing of grant payments and consultant invoices, liaising with the finance team as needed.

• Contribute to the preparation of presentation materials, briefs, and reports for both internal and external audiences.

3. Logistical and Event Planning:

• Provide sophisticated logistical support for virtual and in-person meetings, workshops, and conferences. This includes managing travel arrangements, venue selection, and participant communications.

• Coordinate the production and distribution of meeting materials.

• Manage event budgets and process related expenses.

4. Knowledge Management and Communication:

• Maintain and organize shared electronic files, ensuring that critical information is accessible and well-organized for the entire team.

• Conduct basic desk research on specific topics as requested by program staff to inform strategy development.

• Proofread and format documents to ensure they meet organizational standards.

Ideal Candidate Profile: Do You Have What It Takes?

We are looking for a candidate who is not only skilled but also deeply aligned with our values and ways of working. The ideal candidate will possess a combination of the following qualifications, skills, and attributes:

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant professional experience in an administrative, coordination, or program support role. Experience in a nonprofit, philanthropic foundation, or mission-driven organization is a significant advantage.

• Exceptional organizational skills: You can juggle multiple tasks and priorities without letting details slip. Your ability to create and maintain systems is second to none.

• Superb written and verbal communication skills: You can draft clear, professional, and concise emails and documents.

• Technological proficiency: You are highly adept with standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace). Experience with grant management or CRM databases is a plus.

• A self-starter mentality: As a remote employee, you must be proactive, able to manage your time effectively, and work independently with minimal supervision.

• A demonstrated interest in or commitment to environmental issues, climate justice, social equity, or international development.

Core Competencies & Personal Attributes:

• Discretion and Integrity: You will handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost professionalism.

• Problem-Solving Mindset: You approach challenges with a solutions-oriented attitude and are not afraid to ask questions.

• Collaborative Spirit: You are a team player who enjoys supporting colleagues and building positive working relationships, even from a distance.

• Adaptability: You are comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where priorities can shift in response to new opportunities or challenges.

• Cultural Sensitivity: You have the ability to work effectively with a diverse, global team and a wide range of external partners.

Why Join the Climate and Land Use Alliance?

Choosing a role is about more than just the job description; it’s about the environment, the impact, and the growth opportunities. We offer a compelling package for the right candidate:

• Meaningful Impact: Your work directly supports initiatives that are making a tangible difference for the planet and its people.

• Professional Growth: You will gain invaluable insight into the world of international philanthropy, grant-making, and environmental strategy.

• Expert Colleagues: You will be working alongside and learning from a team of recognized experts and thought leaders in the field.

• Work-Life Balance: This part-time (50%) role offers significant flexibility, allowing you to contribute to a critical mission while maintaining balance in your personal life.

• Remote-First Culture: Work from the comfort of your home, eliminating commute time and allowing for a personalized work environment.

• Competitive Compensation: A salary of USD $1,500 – $1,700 per month for this part-time position, commensurate with experience.