Program Associate, Markets and Food

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a leading global conservation organization founded in 196

• With a mission to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has more than 5 million supporters worldwide. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable food systems, and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to these causes.

Job Overview:
The Program Associate position is integral to the Large Project Management Unit (LPMU) within the Markets and Food program at WWF. The role encompasses a variety of administrative and programmatic tasks aimed at supporting the program's goals and objectives. The associate will engage in research and analysis, organize information, draft reports, proposals, and presentations, and assist in project management and policy development. This position requires effective communication with staff regarding ongoing activities and the administration and monitoring of budgets, contracts, and other assigned projects. The Program Associate will play a crucial role in ensuring that the program's initiatives are executed efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall mission of WWF.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Associate will be responsible for creating and maintaining detailed project schedules to monitor tasks and activities within the program. This includes modifying project schedules as directed and preparing project status reports. The associate will gather, organize, and analyze information from various sources, staying current on issues related to the program's focus areas. They may assist in developing databases to track conservation-related information and will support the preparation of agreements for sub-grantees and consultants, ensuring timely processing of agreements and payments in accordance with WWF policies. The role also involves preparing paperwork for approvals, securing signatures, and distributing documents appropriately. The associate will follow up on contract deliverables and maintain an accurate project tracking database. Additionally, the Program Associate will write case studies, policy briefs, research summaries, and presentation materials, compose reports and briefings, and assist in donor communications and fundraising activities. They will oversee financial administration, including processing invoices and expense reports, managing account coding, and facilitating reclassifications while providing strategic support through budget preparation and variance analysis. The associate will collect information and maintain logs or records using various software tools, review and validate data, and synthesize reports for internal and external stakeholders. Scheduling meetings and managing logistics for online meetings will also be part of the responsibilities, along with performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, along with two years of professional experience, or a minimum of four years of relevant experience, preferably in environmental or conservation science. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented and methodical, capable of managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills are essential for proofreading and editing documents. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required, as well as the ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks, and complete work with minimal supervision while meeting deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office software (PowerPoint, Excel, and Word) and online tools (Sharepoint, Box, Airtable, etc.) is mandatory.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required for this position. Candidates with equivalent experience in environmental or conservation science education will also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of conservation-related projects and the ability to engage in research and analysis effectively.

Experience:
The position requires either two years of professional experience in a related field or a minimum of four years of relevant experience. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing projects and priorities effectively, demonstrating the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Experience in environmental or conservation science is preferred, as it aligns with the mission and objectives of WWF.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Spanish and English is required, including strong written and verbal communication skills. Knowledge of Portuguese is considered a desirable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the program's objectives.

Additional Notes:
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States, as this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. In compliance with federal law, all hired individuals will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. upon hire. Relocation assistance is not provided for this position. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.