Program Officer

~ VCS and the associated VCS Program were launched in November 2007 and are now well established among the leading global greenhouse gas (GHG) standards and programs in the voluntary carbon market. ~

Our primary objective is to bring standardization, transparency and credibility to the voluntary carbon market. Increasingly, we are generating lessons and providing inputs for compliance programs emerging worldwide and broader results-based compensation mechanisms. 

Position Overview

The Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) is looking for a Program Officer to join a growing staff in our Washington, DC headquarters. The successful candidate will interact with a diverse staff on wide range of technical and operational matters relating to the Program Team's work. The position reports to the Program Officer.

The Officer will be a key resource for project developers, providing guidance, support and oversight. The position provides the opportunity to work with GHG quantification methodologies being developed through the VCS Program, as well as many other aspects of the program.

Responsibilities

Job Description:

As a key member of the Program Team, the successful candidate will play an important role in a diverse set of tasks and initiatives relating to the overall success of VCS. These will include at minimum the following:

• Assist in the support and oversight of all VCS projects, by reviewing project documents, participating in site visits, and providing the necessary support to stakeholders across the world. 
• Manage GHG quantification methodologies developed through the VCS Program, including working with developers to promote standardized methods and resolve technical issues.
• Conduct research and analysis for key program development initiatives, including drafting new guidance and other technical documents.
• Represent VCS at conferences and other industry events.
• Assist the team on other tasks and initiatives, as required.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Experience and Skills:

• One to two years of relevant work experience, including in carbon markets, auditing, research, consulting, or in relevant sectors such as energy, industry, forestry or agriculture. 
• University education, with strong preference for applied sciences, including engineering, natural resource or environmental management, forestry, agronomy, soil science, agriculture or environmental economics.
• Understanding of GHG concepts, including voluntary and compliance carbon markets, project development, use of GHG quantification methodologies, and the role of validation/verification bodies.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills, including technical writing.
• Fluency in English; another VCS-relevant language would be considered a strong asset.

Professional Qualities:

• Sharp analytical mind, with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to manage a diverse, intellectually challenging workload. 
• Ability to excel in a professional environment.
• Excellent time management skills. 
• Good organizational, communication, interpersonal and team skills.
• A sense of humor.

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 United States (ie, US citizen or holding current work authorization).

To Apply

Please use the email address below to send us your application materials. In order to streamline the application process, please submit the following documents: 

• Cover letter (not to exceed one page).
• Resume/CV (not to exceed two pages).
• A short writing sample (maximum 500 words) describing the key considerations for designing a project that delivers real emission reductions and removals.  

Note: All documents must be submitted by April 22, 2014.