Program Officer

The Voluntary Carbon Standard Association (VCSA) is responsible for the management of the Voluntary Carbon Standard (VCS) and its associated program, which were launched on 19 November 2007. The primary objective of the VCS is to bring standardization, transparency and credibility to the voluntary carbon market, and the VCS has now established itself as one of the leading GHG standards and programs in the voluntary carbon market. In addition, the VCS is likely to play an important role in the development of compliance regimes worldwide.

The VCSA is looking for a dynamic Program Officer to focus on operational and technical aspects of the VCS Program.

Responsibilities: 

The Program Officer will play a key role in the Program Team, which is responsible for all operational aspects of the VCS Program and for informing and shaping its strategic direction. Principal tasks and responsibilities will include, at a minimum, the following:

1. Manage enquiries from project developers, validation/verification bodies and other VCS Program stakeholders.
2. Work with the VCS registries and project database to handle day-to-day operational issues, manage oversight and roll-out of new functionality.
3. Work on new policy initiatives, to expand and develop the scope of the VCS Program.
4. Manage administrative aspects of the program.
5. Participate in conferences and other industry events.
6. Assist in other parts of the organization, as needed.

Reporting to: Program Coordinator

Qualifications: 

Required Knowledge, Experience and Skills:

1. University education.
2. Good knowledge of voluntary and regulated carbon markets would be considered an asset.
3. 1-2 years work experience in the fields of environment, energy, information technology, consultancy or financial services would be considered an asset.
4. Fluency in English; another language would be considered an asset.
5. Experience and expertise designing, operating, verifying against or using standards and protocols would be considered an asset.

Required Traits:

1. Sharp analytical mind, with good attention to detail.
2. Ability to multi-task on issues of substance.
3. Ability to work independently and on own initiative.
4. Professional approach and demeanor.
5. Good organizational, communication, interpersonal and team skills.

Compensation: A competitive salary is available and other terms and conditions will be discussed during the application process. Applicants must be eligible to work in the US (US citizen or currently holding authorization to work in the US).

Start Date: November 2010

To Apply: 

In order to streamline the application process, applicants are requested to submit the following documents:

1. Cover letter (not to exceed 1 page).
2. Resume/CV (not to exceed 2 pages).
3. A short writing sample (maximum 500 words) outlining how the VCS Program is relevant to the international carbon markets.

All documents must please be submitted by close of business 14 October 2010.