Development Officer

The Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education in order to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. Our vision is a world in which we live within our means and in balance with nature. We bring together institutions and individuals to understand and inform critical environmental issues by combining world class scientific field research with experiential learning programs that inspire the leadership needed to promote personal and organizational change.

Our research program involves a global community of researchers, conservation volunteers, NGOs and businesses, working together towards a sustainable environment. Earthwatch supports about 60 projects across nearly 40 countries, and draws $20 million in annual revenues, with more than 85% of its budget supporting science research and engagement, and going towards programmatic support. Since 1971 Earthwatch has inspired 93,000 volunteers to join vital conservation research projects in the field. Earthwatch supports research projects in four key areas: Ecosystem services, climate change, oceans, and cultural heritage.

Earthwatch is proud to collaborate with nearly 40 corporate partners around the world, in industry sectors ranging from banking and financial services to consumer products, agriculture, and extractives. We select companies that take their environmental responsibilities and performance seriously and are open to working constructively with us to benefit the environment and help us achieve our mission. 

Position Overview:

This role is focused on Earthwatch's public program of volunteers.   While based in the U.S. out of our Boston office, the position will primarily be responsible for the development activities of UK-based volunteers, but will also work with US-based volunteers, as needed. As such, experience and/or knowledge of the UK market is a valuable asset.

Please see list below of key responsibilities.  Overall, activities focus on serving as the front line ambassador for the organization, responsible for the recruitment and stewardship of potential public volunteers.  The role will be accountable for delivery of an outstanding level of donor relations and ensuring ongoing stewardship of participants. Additionally, the Development Officer will be responsible for working collegially with other departments including support of marketing efforts. 

Responsibilities:

• Provide stewardship to existing volunteers and prospects, fostering a community culture
• Pipeline management of qualified leads - existing volunteers and new prospects
• Phone-based outbound calling and email campaigns
• Accountability for converting in-bound calls into revenue for the organization
• Data entry of all new leads; maintenance of existing leads
• Update recruitment reports/dashboards on ongoing basis
• Attend tradeshows and conferences throughout the year
• Coordinate efforts with Development team including events and annual fund
• Responsible for cultivation and solicitation of additional donations from volunteers

Qualifications:

• 2 + years experience in development outreach, sales, or recruiting; past experience within a global travel based or non-profit organization a plus.
• Capable of making outbound calls routinely to existing and prospective volunteers and supporters.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Superior negotiation skills and ability to persuade.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team in a fast paced and changing environment.
• Strong prioritization skills, time management and attention to detail.
• High energy, goal oriented, creative and collegial.  Sense of humor is key.
• Strong interest in environmental conservation issues.
• International travel experience across a range of countries helpful.
• Exceptional computer skills and a propensity for learning new technology programs: sufficient in MS Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, Power Point and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends to attend events and functions as required.
• Ability to identify problem-solve.
• Self-motivated, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently.