Program Officer – Conservation, U.S. Ocean Conservation

Company Name

Paul M. Angell Family Foundation

Company City

Chicago

Company State

Job Location

Washington, DC

Job Description

Position Summary

The Program Officer, U.S. Ocean Conservation, will advance the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation’s mission by managing the curation and implementation of the U.S. ocean policy and defense grantmaking portfolio, a new signature area of the Foundation’s conservation work.

Working under the guidance of the Senior Director, the Program Officer will manage a diverse portfolio of nonprofit grantees, including through conducting thorough due diligence, soliciting and evaluating proposals, monitoring grantee performance, and preparing detailed funding recommendations and reports for board consideration. The Program Officer will engage deeply with grantee partners, participate in funder networks, and contribute to conversations on ocean conservation and U.S. ocean defense. Additionally, they will collaborate closely with the Senior Program Officer (Legal), a Program Associate who offers administrative and programmatic support, and up to two additional Program and/or Senior Program Officers responsible for related program portfolios. Strong writing and communication skills are critical to effectively articulate the Foundation’s priorities and ensure clear, impactful engagement with internal and external stakeholders.

The ideal candidate brings proven experience in nonprofit and ocean conservation sectors, a strong understanding of U.S. marine policy and the landscape of nonprofits working to advance positive marine conservation outcomes, and a collaborative approach to philanthropy. This highly engaged role suits someone detail-oriented, systems-minded, and committed to advancing equitable and impactful conservation outcomes.

Grants Management

Manage a portfolio of grants to U.S.-based nonprofit organizations working in marine conservation
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

Shaping Programs

Contribute to the development, implementation, and evolution of grantmaking strategies aligned with priorities in the Ocean Conservation program, with a focus on U.S. coastal and marine conservation
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

External Relations

Build and sustain relationships with leaders and stakeholders in the U.S. ocean conservation field
Stay informed about emerging trends, policy developments, political dynamics, and best practices in marine conservation
Represent the Foundation in funder collaboratives and at convenings, seminars, official forums, conferences, and external meetings
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.

Program Administration

Work with the Grants department to ensure that grants’ data is accurate, complete, and meets compliance standards.
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.

Team Collaboration and Growth

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.
Understand that this portfolio is designed to evolve in response to the shifting landscape of U.S. Ocean conservation and philanthropy; candidates should be comfortable with change and prepared for the role to adapt over time as strategies are refined

Job Qualifications

Experience and Qualifications

At least 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in ocean conservation, marine policy, environmental grantmaking, or nonprofit program management
Familiarity with U.S. coastal and marine ecosystems, policy landscapes, and the nonprofit organizations engaged in conservation efforts

Skills and Competencies

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 periodically 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.

While employed in this position, the employee may be required to perform other assignments not listed in this job description. The employee is an employee at will, meaning that either party may terminate the employment relationship at any time by written notice to the other. Nothing in this job description is to be deemed to create a contract of employment for a specific period.

How to Apply

To apply submit application here: https://paulmangellfamilyfoundation.applytojob.com/apply
You will be asked to submit the following:

Resume
Cover letter highlighting your experience and your ability to excel in this role
Expected start date: November or December 2025

All applications must be submitted by Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM CT.