Job Opportunities
Internships
Job Opportunities
Global Footprint Network is a dynamic, international organization that is currently in an exciting growth phase. We are looking for leaders with a passion for global sustainability in a variety of capacities from communications to research. Please review the opportunities we have available and consider joining our team.
Research Associate - Computer Science & Data Management
Position Summary
Global Footprint Network is seeking to hire a Research Associate to support the continuous improvement of the National Footprint Accounts, which serve as the basis of Ecological Footprint analyses worldwide, and to apply the accounts as needed in analysis, research and projects with governments, businesses and other organizations.
In these efforts the Ecological Footprint is often used in conjunction with other methodologies, such as life-cycle analysis (LCA), Input-Output (I/O) analysis and scenario modeling.
As Research Associate – Computer Science & Data Management you play a critical role in taking our work to the next level of technical sophistication and will work closely with the members of the National Footprint Accounts development team, project managers, and others working to generate the national accounts and apply the Ecological Footprint. You will be leveraging technology to manage and merge large data sets, writing processes, procedures, reports and papers, some of which may be submitted for publication in scientific journals. Additional responsibilities will include generating and providing data, graphs, maps and other flash based visuals so that our data is easy to understand and has an impact on our clients in government and business. Opportunities may exist for presenting on the Ecological Footprint methodology and on the outcome of specific research projects, technological advancements and proposals regarding ways to better generate and present Ecological Footprint results.
Performance Profile
The Research Associate – Computer Science & Data Management will report to the Director of Technical Programs.
Specific responsibilities include:
National Footprint Accounts (~70%)
- Improve the computational architecture of the National Footprint Accounts.
- Design and implement software tools for Ecological Footprint analysis.
- Support client specific projects and applications.
- Add functionality to GFN website – visualization of National Accounts and country analysis, along with interactivity functionality.
- Acquire understanding of Ecological Footprint methodology and respond to data and methodological queries from GFN partners and others.
- Developing and refining approaches for applying the Ecological Footprint in a wide variety of contexts.
- Contributing to projects that focus on leveraging technology and developing applications for the Ecological Footprint.
- Providing summaries and interpretations of Footprint data for Global Footprint Network internal use, as well as for clients, partners, and the general public.
- Supporting the communications department in its use of Footprint concepts, data and visuals.
Qualifications
- Minimum BS in computer science, or verifiable/equivalent work experience
- Strong background in GUI design, data visualization
- In-depth knowledge of
- MATLAB
- .Net Framework
- SQL
- GIS applications (specific experience with open source GIS packages highly preferable)
- Preferred experience in
- Web development: AJAX, Flash, PHP, and web services
- Java
- Some understanding of environmental, energy, and resource issues and an interest in global resource issues.
- Desire to learn about Ecological Footprint, I/O based LCA, as well as hybrid methods, and ability and motivation to quickly develop expertise in these analysis methods without the need for on-going supervision.
- Strong project management skills and ability to work well in a highly interactive team environment.
- Well-organized, self-motivated, and able to meet project deadlines in fast paced environment.
- Skilled in both written and oral communication.
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to work well with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures.
- Fluency in non-English languages a plus.
- Excitement about being part of a small but growing organization whose influence on global movement toward sustainability is rapidly expanding!
Salary And Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience. Health insurance, 403(b) and other benefits are provided. Our collegial, open-plan office is located in an attractive neighborhood with good transit access. Extra-pecuniary benefits include opportunities to work in an international network, help shape the future of sustainability, and be part of a friendly, bright, and collegial team. Light-hearted, often delicious, communal lunches provided daily.
Application
Send resume and statement of career goals to jobs@footprintnetwork.org; subject line MUST include the term Research Associate - Computer Science & Data Management. No phone calls please.
Global Footprint Network is committed to diversity in the workplace.
For more information about Global Footprint Network and the Ecological Footprint visit www.footprintnetwork.org.
Director, Global Footprint Network - Europe
Position Summary
European institutions and nations have emerged as global leaders in demonstrating how societies measure progress, true wealth and the well-being of people and nations. As part of this trend, Global Footprint Network’s Ecological Footprint framework, methodology, data and tools are helping leaders in and outside government to weigh options for the future and make better decisions. Global Footprint Network’s work in Europe is expanding rapidly and we are now seeking an entrepreneurial leader to build on this momentum and spearhead our European expansion.
Performance Profile
The Director will direct the activities of Global Footprint Network’s European activities including Brussels, our satellite office in Zürich and other future satellite offices in European countries. The Director, in collaboration with program staff in our US offices, will be responsible for leading the activities of Global Footprint Network – Europe, including fundraising and revenue generation, operations and personnel. In particular, the Director will develop and implement projects in Europe in support of the following initiatives:
- Deepening relationships with leading European agencies and global institutions located in Europe with the goal of becoming trusted advisors;
- With our technical staff, overseeing projects which strengthen decision making by providing guidance, research and data to national government agencies;
- Strengthening our collaborations with our partners in Europe;
- Expanding Global Footprint Network’s Human Development Initiative;
- Fundraising in collaboration with the organisation’s headquarters in California;
- Building engagements with corporations; and
- Deepening working relationships and increasing engagements with NGOs and intergovernmental agencies.
Qualifications
The Director will be a seasoned leader with expertise in sustainability and/or economic policy with direct experience building partnerships with governments, corporations, development banks, donor agencies, intergovernmental agencies, and organizations that invest in large-scale infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in working with governments, possibly through work with a large management consulting/public affairs firm or international conglomerates.
Salary And Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience.
Application
Send CV and cover letter to jobs@footprintnetwork.org. Subject line MUST include the term "Director, Global Footprint Network - Europe." No phone calls please. Global Footprint Network is committed to diversity in the workplace. For more information about Global Footprint Network and the Ecological Footprint visit www.footprintnetwork.org.
Internships
Global Footprint Network is currently seeking interns to assist in several departments. See below for descriptions of specific internship opportunities and information on how to apply to each.
Successful applicants for all positions will be motivated, responsible, and self-starters, able to work with minimum direction. Applicants should be interested in sustainability, global resource issues, ecological economics, and resource analysis. We are especially interested in applicants with backgrounds or experience in: ecology, environmental science, earth systems, urban planning, resource management, or business (especially current MBA students).
Interns will work closely with all staff, including experienced business consultants and Dr. Mathis Wackernagel, co-creator of the Ecological Footprint. All interns will also be asked to support the administrative functions of the organization. This may include arranging and supporting meetings, assisting with correspondence, updating the contact database, and overseeing production and mailing of materials.
Individuals who feel they can make a positive contribution to the Global Footprint Network by bringing a different combination of skills are also encouraged to apply.
Time and Compensation: We are now accepting applications for spring and summer interns. We prefer full time interns, though a part-time arrangement may be possible. There is a minimum commitment of 16 hours per week for three months. Hours are flexible. Gourmet healthy lunches are provided daily. We are willing to work with a university to arrange academic credit. At this time all internships are unpaid, volunteer positions.
Finance & Administrative Intern
Position Summary
Global Footprint Network is seeking a finance/accounting & administration intern to assist with a range of functions. Recent graduates with a degree in accounting, business, economics, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply. Depending on skills and interests, intern projects may include:
- Organizing and maintaining the accounting records and filing cabinets
- Supporting the finance department in Audit preparations
- Assisting with data entry of Accounts Payable into the accounting system
- Processing Accounts Payable check runs for mailing
- General finance office support
- Assistance with fundraising department special projects, including preparation of direct mail and annual appeal campaigns, as time permits, at the discretion of Finance
- Assistance with database management if experience in that area is desired. Potential tasks include data entry, note clean up, and assisting the Database Coordinator as needed
- Assist with special projects
Application
Send resume and statement of career goals. No phone calls, please email; subject line MUST include the term “Accounting & Finance Internship Application." Contact: Laura Yuenger at jobs@footprintnetwork.orgCommunications Intern
Position Summary
Global Footprint Network is seeking a communications intern to assist with a range of communications projects. Recent graduates with a degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or related field are encouraged to apply. Advanced undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply. Depending on skills and interests, intern projects may include:
- Maintaining and expanding the media library.
- Building network partnerships and supporting outreach programs.
- Assisting with website maintenance, monthly newsletters, and media outreach.
- Helping to maintain partner relationships.
- Writing and editing reports and project summaries.
- Planning special events and office parties.
- Monitoring Ecological Footprint and general environmental news alerts.
- Supporting the planning and coordinating of direct mail and annual appeal campaigns.
Application
Send resume and statement of career goals. No phone calls, please email; subject line MUST include the term "Communications Internship Application." Contact: Laura Yuenger at jobs@footprintnetwork.orgTechnical Intern
Position Summary
We are seeking interns to assist with a range of technical and project work in our Research and Standards department. Current graduate, MBA, and advanced undergraduate students in fields such as Engineering, Environmental Science, Computer Science, or Mathematics are encouraged to apply. Depending on skills and interests, intern projects may include:- Supporting Footprint projects with data gathering and analysis. These projects may support development of the Footprint methodology, or they may involve working with businesses and governments to help them move toward sustainability.
- Conducting technical and subject-based research for project work.
- Supporting the Ecological Footprint Standards process.
Key skills required for all projects include excellent writing, research, and organizational skills. For Footprint projects, strong quantitative abilities, solid computer skills and intermediate to advanced Excel skills are essential. Applicants should have a good grasp of environmental issues, and understanding principles of economics and basic statistics is very useful. For website related projects, knowledge of HTML or Dreamweaver are required in order to assist with website development and maintenance.
Application
Send resume and statement of career goals. No phone calls, please email; subject line MUST include the term “Technical Internship Application." Contact: Laura Yuenger at jobs@footprintnetwork.orgFundraising Intern
Position Summary
Global Footprint Network is seeking an intern to assist with a range of fundraising activities. Recent graduates with a degree in environmental policy and/or sciences, communications, sales, marketing, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Advanced undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply. Depending on skills and interests, intern projects may include:- Assisting with the preparation and submission of letters of inquiry, proposals, grant reports, and thank you letters;
- Helping to plan and organize special events;
- Participating in our mid-year and annual appeal campaigns;
- Helping to maintain donor relationships;
- Assisting with the maintenance and improvement of our grants pipeline, major donor prospect pipeline, and contact management database; and
- Researching and targeting individual and foundation donor prospects.
Application
Send resume and statement of career goals. No phone calls, please email; subject line MUST include the term “Fundraising Internship Application." Contact: Laura Yuenger at jobs@footprintnetwork.org