Senior Program Officer (SPO), US Corporate Climate Engagement

Job Posting Organization:
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to protecting the world's most vulnerable species and their habitats. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a global network of more than 5 million supporters. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development, aiming to create a world where people live in harmony with nature.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer (SPO) for US Corporate Climate Engagement will play a pivotal role in advancing WWF's mission by managing corporate partnerships and supporting the Climate Business Network. This position is crucial for driving climate action within the corporate sector, helping businesses set and implement science-based targets, and navigating the complexities of greenhouse gas accounting and climate-related standards. The SPO will engage with corporate partners to facilitate their transition to a low-carbon future, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to achieve their climate goals. This role requires a deep understanding of corporate climate methodologies, carbon accounting, and sustainability practices, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Engaging with WWF corporate climate partners to assist them in accounting for their greenhouse gas emissions, setting science-based targets, and developing net-zero commitments.
• Managing corporate relationships and developing new partner proposals, annual work plans, and routine communications.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of WWF-US’s corporate climate engagement strategy.
• Leading technical tasks, conducting literature reviews, and writing reports with minimal supervision.
• Collaborating with other teams within WWF to advance corporate climate partnerships.
• Representing WWF at external events and meetings related to climate and business.
• Potentially recruiting and managing interns and junior staff.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess thorough knowledge of corporate climate mitigation strategies and experience with greenhouse gas accounting and reporting. Preference will be given to those with experience in corporate climate target setting and engagement with the business community. Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills are essential, along with excellent oral and written communication abilities. Candidates should be able to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating initiative and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in Climate Science, Environmental Science/Management, Business, Engineering, Economics, Public Policy, Industrial Ecology, or a related field is required. Candidates with an advanced degree should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, while those with a bachelor’s degree must have at least 6 years of professional experience in a related field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of program or professional experience for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, or a minimum of 3 years for those with an advanced degree. Experience in corporate sustainability, greenhouse gas accounting, and familiarity with platforms relevant to corporate climate ambition is strongly preferred. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of carbon and renewable energy markets, sustainable fuels, and certification approaches.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a hybrid position requiring a minimum of two days a week in the WWF Washington, DC headquarters office. The salary range for this position is between $82,300 and $102,90

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The organization promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of various characteristics protected under applicable law.