The Nature Record Program Specialist

Job Description

EarthLab at the University of Washington has an outstanding opportunity for a Program Specialist to support The Nature Record (TNR). Key areas of responsibility include supporting development of a scientific assessment by author teams and supporting TNR communications and engagement.  

The position requires strong expertise and technical skill and experience supporting complex programs and teams. The Program Specialist has the ability to build and maintain coalitions internally and externally that achieve common goals across multiple non-governmental and governmental institutions and with a wide range of partners. They have an understanding of interactions between science and policy, and is experienced with regional and national environmental programs and regulations.

The Program Specialist identifies problems, oversees the implementation of appropriate methodologies, and conducts information acquisition, reduction, and presentation. The Program Specialist will be expected to represent the program nationally at public events and/or symposia. The Program Specialist supports and coordinates multiple interacting components of a large, complex program (The Nature Record), including large teams of interdisciplinary scientists working to produce a national assessment of nature.

Work can be conducted remotely within the United States and may entail occasional domestic travel depending on budget, need, and ability. 

Key Responsibilities 

Manage and support interdisciplinary research teams (45% FTE) 

• Regularly engage with program participants, providing information and advice to teams regarding project and program content, policies and activities 

• Ensure program policies are adhered to 

• Monitor team activities in relation to existing program guidance and policies under complex timelines 

• Support participant meetings, perform complex scheduling, track program progress 
• Ensure integration and coordination across interdisciplinary research teams and between research teams and external audiences and stakeholders

• Identify opportunities to improve internal systems and organizational effectiveness

Support the production of existing syntheses, assessments, and other research projects (25% FTE) 

• Support program participant engagement with external technical units 

• Track revisions, manage large bibliographies, coordinate graphic development 

• Manage and maintain program assets, such as reference libraries and glossaries 
   

Externally represent the program (15% FTE) 

• Attend and/or coordinate meetings, conferences, and/or public engagement events as program representative 

• Support development, production, procurement of materials and supplies 

• Conduct complex scheduling for multiple program participants, internal and external 
   

Develop internal and external communications (10% FTE) 

• Write program-wide communications about internal policies 

• Develop summaries of program products for external audiences 
• Develop additional communications products as requested

Additional Responsibilities (5% FTE)

• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and/or Policy, or the equivalent , AND 

• One-two years of experience related to program administration, operations management, or related field of work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience coordinating multiple interdisciplinary research teams 

• Experience working at the federal level, including on assessments, science and technology policy, or similar 

• Demonstrated excellence in organizational skills, including the ability to successfully execute detailed projects and processes; prioritize projects or deliverables; and carry out multiple tasks under tight deadlines 

• Ability to proactively identify program needs and propose solutions to complex problems 

• Excellent oral and written communications skills 

• Experience managing databases or spreadsheets 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to problem solve 

• Ability to work both as part of a professional team as well as independently 

• Ability to be a self-starter, seek understanding, and identify opportunities to support overall program objectives 

• Exceptional attention to detail 

• Willingness to travel domestically 1-5 times per year

About the Team

The Nature Record (TNR) will provide a holistic picture of the state of nature, the many changes that are underway, and how nature matters to our lives. TNR will allow us to better understand where we stand now and anticipate how nature and its benefits might change in the future. TNR will identify opportunities for nature to help us achieve our societal and economic goals and will be a vital tool for governments, businesses, communities, and leaders across sectors. It is expected to be completed in 2026. 

EarthLab is a visionary institute at the University of Washington taking equitable action on climate change. At our core, we are a dynamic hub of programs, organizations, event spaces, and collaborative activities that are grounded within the UW College of the Environment. We develop programs that connect the incredible resources at the UW — including the passion and talent of our students — as well as partners in community, public agencies, and industry to create new knowledge and take collective action. We also provide collaborative resources and capacity building services to other research centers and initiatives, such as The Nature Record, in addition to grantees, students and external community partners.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

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About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.