Climate Research & Program Coordinator Full Time NEW

SENSE Institute is a registered nonprofit research organization founded in 2026 by a global collective of young scholars and practitioners, supported by public research funding and private donations.

We are a problem-driven research organization that integrates data-driven research, emerging AI technologies, and collaborative practice to advance meaningful social impact.

Our mission is guided by four interconnected pillars:

• Justice (Climate & Social Equity)
• Sustainability (Environment & Resources)
• Resilience (Urban Systems & Infrastructure)
• Well-being (Health & Flourishing)

Through these pillars, we connect theory, data, and innovation to address complex real-world challenges.

Institution Launch Phase: SENSE Institute is currently in its founding growth phase. Our official website (www.sense-institute.org) is in final development and will launch publicly in late May 2026. Early team members will have the opportunity to help shape a mission-driven organization from the ground up.

Position Overview

SENSE Institute is seeking a highly motivated Climate Research & Program Coordinator to support interdisciplinary initiatives focused on climate mitigation, climate adaptation, resilient landscape systems, and sustainable urban environments.

This role is ideal for candidates with training in Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Design, Geography, Sustainability, or related disciplines who are passionate about applying research and design knowledge to real-world environmental and social challenges.

The position combines research support, project coordination, public program development, stakeholder engagement, and funding support. The successful candidate will help translate technical research into practical programs that communities can understand, engage with, and benefit from.

Key ResponsibilitiesClimate Research & Technical Support

• Support research projects related to climate mitigation, adaptation, resilience, green infrastructure, and sustainable communities
• Conduct literature reviews, precedent studies, policy scans, and case study research
• Assist in climate vulnerability assessments, environmental analysis, and scenario planning
• Support interdisciplinary work connecting research, design, policy, and implementation

Spatial Analysis & Communication

• Conduct GIS mapping, spatial analysis, environmental data interpretation, and visualization
• Prepare graphics, diagrams, reports, presentations, and communication materials
• Help translate technical findings into accessible insights for public audiences

Program & Project Coordination

• Coordinate internal and external communications with research teams, advisors, collaborators, and partners
• Track project schedules, milestones, deliverables, and meeting logistics
• Support management of multiple concurrent initiatives

Public Programs & Engagement

• Help transform research findings into public-facing programs, workshops, educational initiatives, and outreach materials
• Support partnerships with schools, nonprofits, agencies, and community organizations

Funding & Institutional Development

• Assist with identifying and applying for grants, philanthropic support, and research funding opportunities
• Support proposal writing, budgeting coordination, reporting, and donor communication

Qualifications Required

• Master’s degree or higher in one of the following (or related fields):
• Landscape Architecture
• Urban Planning
• Environmental Design
• Geography
• Sustainability
• Architecture
• Environmental Studies
• Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience in research, planning, design practice, project coordination, nonprofit work, or related fields
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Demonstrated interest in climate resilience, adaptation, mitigation, sustainability, or environmental justice

Preferred

• Experience with GIS (ArcGIS Pro / QGIS), spatial analysis, environmental mapping, or geospatial data visualization
• Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, modeling software, and environmental / temperature simulation tools such as ENVI-met, or similar platforms
• Experience with grant writing, fundraising support, or nonprofit development
• Experience organizing workshops, educational programs, or public engagement initiatives
• Experience working in interdisciplinary, entrepreneurial, or startup-style environments

Work Arrangement

• Fully Remote
• Flexible scheduling across time zones
• 20–30 hours per week
• Opportunity to grow into a full-time leadership-track role, depending on performance and organizational growth

Hiring Timeline

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We hope to welcome the selected candidate as soon as possible, with a preferred start date no later than June 30, 2026.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly compensation based on qualifications, experience, and technical skill set
• Benefits eligibility may expand as the role transitions to full-time status
• SENSE Institute provides all legally required employment protections and insurance coverage in accordance with applicable California and federal labor laws, including Workers’ Compensation insurance

Why Join SENSE Institute

This is an opportunity to help build a next-generation nonprofit research organization where design, science, and innovation directly serve society.

You will collaborate with a global network of scholars, practitioners, and mission-driven leaders working on urgent challenges related to climate, cities, equity, and well-being.

How to Apply

Please submit:

1. Resume / CV
2. Brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience
3. Optional: Portfolio, writing sample, or project examples

Apply via LinkedIn or email: info@sense-institute.org