Coordinator, Explorer Programs

How You’ll Contribute

The Explorer Engagement group develops, elevates and empowers our diverse, global network of National Geographic Explorers—scientists, educators, storytellers, and other changemakers from around the world who have received funding or recognition from National Geographic. These empowerment activities are led by a series of teams within Explorer Engagement, including Explorer Programs, International, and the National Geographic Exploration Technology Lab.
Reporting to the Sr. Director, Explorer Programs, the Coordinator, Explorer Programs provides administrative and programmatic support to the Explorer Engagement team with a primary focus on Explorer Programs. This position assists in the administration of programs, development of presentation materials and reports, maintenance of Explorer database records, support of Explorer events, and other activities in support of the team. The role is responsible for coordinating meetings, event and travel planning, legal contracts, payments to outside vendors, and related follow-up.

Your Impact

Responsibilities Include

• Administrative Support: Provides administrative support on day-to-day management of Explorer grant, award, and recognition programs including the Wayfinder Program, Explorer at Large Program, National Geographic Awards program, Young Explorers and others. Handles meeting scheduling, virtual and in-person event/meeting planning and logistics, proposal review process facilitation, and related follow-up. Creates presentation materials and assists with program communication and workflows to ensure seamless program execution. (20%)

• Explorer Support: Provides comprehensive logistical coordination for Explorers under the team's portfolio, including headquarters visits, international travel arrangements, visa documentation, support letters, asset requests, and database maintenance. (20%)

• Operations Support: Provides operational support to the team including submitting vendor payments, support on contracts, and other activities that support the programmatic objectives. In collaboration with the team, prepare mid and end of year reports documenting Explorer Programs' achievements and impact. (25%)

• Research: Work closely with team members on research projects to inform strategy and decision-making. Perform research on potential awardees, especially the Wayfinder Award program nominees. Research partner organization and networks as needed. (20%)

• Cross-Division Support and Events: Assist in the coordination of cross-divisional projects such as Explorers Festival and other Explorer facing events. (15%)

What You’ll Bring Educational BackgroundBachelor's degree preferred or equivalent work experience.  Minimum Years and Type of Experience  2+ years of progressively responsible experience in administrative positions. A demonstrated interest in one of the following areas: life sciences, international affairs, environmental studies, world cultures, geography, marketing, journalism, media.  Necessary Knowledge and Skills

• Attention to detail, ability to understand and prioritize multiple requests 
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communications skills; collaborative team player
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Keynote and database tools
• Experience in organizing conferences/events
• Demonstrated ability to track and report on projects
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and creative 
• Must be capable of exercising flexibility and multitasking
• Strong project management skills

• Committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with Salesforce or similar Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
• Basic understanding of budget and legal terminology

• Basic understanding of nonprofit organizations and grants

• Experience building relationships within culturally diverse groups

• Successful experience working collaboratively with colleagues across multiple diverse teams to drive activity that achieves or exceeds individual and team goals 

SupervisionNo direct reports

Salary Information

The National Geographic Society offers a competitive and holistic total rewards package. Our compensation structure and transparent pay philosophy are based on industry-specific market data for similar-sized nonprofit organizations.

The salary range for this position accounts for a wide range of factors including but not limited to organizational need; specific skill sets; experience and training; certifications; and more. At the National Geographic Society, individuals are typically hired at or near the starting point of the salary range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

The hourly rate for this position is $24.21 - 25.49.

In addition, the National Geographic Society offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package that includes, but is not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; engaging and comprehensive wellness program; 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment; flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave; 12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31; paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits; learning and development opportunities; Lifestyle Spending Account; pet adoption assistance and insurance; pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy; employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit; and a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks.

Job Designation

Hybrid - At the Society, we believe in the advantages of coming together to build community, mentor and learn from colleagues, and connect more deeply with our mission. As a result, the majority of our staff are Hybrid. Our Hybrid category requires that staff work at Base Camp two days each week: every Tuesday and Wednesday. Hybrid staff are also always welcome to come in additional days each week if preferred.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.