Program Officer - Conservation, Coral

Paul M. Angell Family Foundation • Washington, DC

11d • $140,000 - $165,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Officer, Coral Conservation will advance the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation’s mission by managing and strengthening the Foundation’s coral conservation grantmaking area, a signature component of the Conservation Program. The Conservation Program aims to ensure that coral reef ecosystems survive and thrive into the future. Grantmaking currently focuses on a range of conservation and policy priorities including: supporting stronger coordination and collaboration between coral conservation organizations, particularly on issues of building on-the-ground conservation capacity and for strengthening efforts to advocate for global and regional policies for coral conservation; ridge-to-reef conservation efforts in key, to-be-identified geographies; and specific interventions to prepare for the future of coral conservation.
Reporting to the Senior Program Officer, Conservation, the Program Officer will steward an existing portfolio of coral conservation grantees while helping refine and expand the Foundation’s strategic investments in coral reef conservation. The role includes identifying geographic priorities, conducting landscape research, and developing relationships with nonprofit organizations and partners working in coral conservation.
The Program Officer will lead the review and recommendation of grants, conduct due diligence on proposals, and prepare funding recommendations and reports for leadership and Board consideration. In addition to managing grantee relationships, the Program Officer will engage with peer funders, participate in sector convenings, and contribute to conversations shaping global coral conservation efforts.
The ideal candidate brings experience in nonprofit or conservation organizations, a strong understanding of coral reef ecosystems and conservation strategies, and the ability to manage complex projects and partnerships. This role is well suited for someone who is collaborative, strategic, detail oriented, and comfortable working both independently and within a growing philanthropic organization.

Requirements

• At least 7 years of relevant experience, preferably in ocean conservation, marine policy, environmental grantmaking, or nonprofit program management
• Demonstrated knowledge of marine conservation approaches, including site-based conservation, policy initiatives, or capacity building effort; knowledge of coral reef conservation approaches is strongly preferred
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and project management abilities
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work autonomously as well as within a small team
• Comfort with grants databases and willingness to engage in data-related tasks
• Commitment to equity and justice in environmental work and philanthropy
• Ability to travel frequently for site visits, convenings, and conferences
• Operates with a deep understanding of equity and values diversity in all aspects of the work.
• Ability to communicate with and work effectively with diverse constituencies, personalities, and viewpoints with a diplomatic and mature approach
• Exhibits awareness of and works to address one’s own privileges, biases, and cultural preferences and how they impact collaboration
• Skilled in building and maintaining authentic relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Skilled at self-organizing and working independently in an active, energetic, and growing program while also working comfortably with a small team of dedicated staff.
• Demonstrates the values of the Foundation, including Excellence, Respect, Humility, Authenticity, and Collaboration.
• Brings a growth mindset and is energized by contributing to an evolving organizational culture
• Capable of processing complex information and making sound decisions.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment and manage change effectively.
• Thoughtful contributor to internal culture-building efforts during a time of growth and organizational development.
• Maintains confidentiality in all matters related to the foundation and its stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the global landscape of coral conservation organizations and initiatives is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of grants focused on coral reef conservation and related ridge-to-reef strategies
• Respond in a timely and respectful manner to inquiries from grantee partners and prospective applicants
• Conduct due diligence on proposals, including reviewing applications, conducting site visits, and meeting with grantee partners
• Provide the board with thoughtful, well-reasoned funding recommendations and compelling, well-written documents.
• Participate in board meetings and collaborate with staff on agenda preparation and materials
• Maintain consistent communication with grantee partners and support their ability to meet project goals and objectives
• Work closely with the Grants Management team to ensure accuracy and completeness of grant records and data compliance
• Support database management and reporting through the Foundation’s grants management systems
• Steward and refine the coral conservation grant portfolio in collaboration with the Senior Program Officer, Conservation and the Senior Director of Conservation
• Lead scoping efforts to identify priority geographic regions and new potential grantee partners for the coral conservation portfolio
• Contribute to the development and evolution of the Conservation Program’s strategies, particularly related to coral reef conservation and ridge-to-reef conservation approaches
• Participate in evaluating program outcomes and recommend adjustments based on new knowledge and emerging needs in the field
• Serve as a thought partner with grantee partners, peer funders, and the Foundation’s leadership
• Participate in strategic planning with Senior Director of Conservation, consultants, and staff to support the program’s direction and growth
• Build and sustain relationships with leaders and stakeholders in global coral conservation
• Stay informed about emerging science, policy developments, and conservation strategies affecting coral reef ecosystems
• Represent the Foundation at conferences, convenings, and meetings with peer funders, NGOs, and field leaders
• Respond promptly and respectfully to inquiries from grantee partners and applicants.
• Learn from and develop relationships with leaders in the sector, grantee partners, and other grantmakers.
• Convene meetings with grantee partners and funders.
• Participate in educational opportunities, professional networks, and conferences.
• Work with the Grants department to ensure that grants’ data is accurate, complete, and meets compliance standards.
• Support grant reporting and monitoring processes, including reviewing grantee reports and conducting site visits where appropriate
• Assist with database management, where appropriate.
• Evaluate and report on the impact of funding to inform future strategies.
• Monitor implementation of grants by requesting and reviewing written evaluations, where appropriate, and by conducting site visits.
• Actively participate in required staff and Board meetings and partner with staff on agenda items and materials.
• Contribute to a collaborative, equity-informed team culture within the Foundation, which is experiencing organizational growth alongside the expansion of its conservation team.
• Thrive in a remote work environment by maintaining proactive, clear communication and a high level of self-direction.
• Participate in regular team meetings, planning sessions, and cross-program learning efforts to align on goals and share knowledge.
• Contribute to the Foundation’s ongoing organizational development, including participation in the 2026 strategic planning process

Benefits

• Healthcare: 100% paid Platinum PPO health insurance premium for employees and 80% for dependents or family.
• Dental and Vision: 100% paid premium for employees, dependents, and family.
• 403b retirement savings plan employer contributions match: After three months of employment, the Foundation will contribute up to 9% of the employee’s salary—5% will be an outright contribution, and the Foundation will match up to 4% of the employee’s contribution to the plan.
• In addition to vacation, holidays, wellness, and sick days, the PMAFF offices are closed from December 26th through New Year’s Day annually and employees’ salaries are paid during this closure.
• Twelve weeks of paid parental leave for a birth parent, non-birth parent, or adoption.
• We are committed to supporting your growth through professional development funds, tailored to your role and learning needs. We provide opportunities for collaboration, skill-building, and the time and space to grow in your career.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed