Senior Operations Program Specialist
The Nature Conservancy
What We Can Achieve Together:
The Senior Operations Program Specialist will work as part of a team within the New York Division providing a broad range of resources. The Senior Operations Program Specialist will provide overall direction and leadership for all operations functions in New York City office. They will manage functional activities, such operations, procurement, facilities, meetings management, special events, training, etc. The Senior Operations Specialist will be part of the NY Operations Team and will supervise the NY Division support staff.
We’re Looking for You:
The Senior Operations Program Specialist will work towards meeting the strategic priorities of the team by developing and implementing tactics for approved plans and completing and organizing multiple tasks and activities. The Senior Operations Program Specialist will work towards meeting the strategic priorities of the New York City office by implementing tactics for approved plans and completing day-to-day tasks and activities in a fast-paced environment and need to be on-site. They may be responsible for purchasing, facility management, telecommunications, and planning and execution of logistics for special events and/or meetings. They must have the ability to direct others. They will maintain, track, and report on key data related to the scope and priorities of the functional activity. The Specialist must have advanced knowledge of the systems and resources utilized by the team in order to provide programmatic support and coordinate communications related to the resources. They will complete activities with multiple variables, setting realistic deadlines and managing the timeline. They will provide guidance in satisfying requirements based on extensive knowledge of policies and procedures. The Specialist will take on additional duties to enhance the work of the team, including, but not limited to, developing documentation, providing recommendations and targeted training related to the functional area of the team. They will coordinate with stakeholders for program success and may serve as the lead liaison with partners or vendors. The Specialist II will communicate with staff in various programs across the Conservancy, as well as with donors, volunteers, vendors, and business relations.
Responsibilities & Scope:
Act independently within broad program goals to prioritize tasks in the absence of specific instructions and exercise independent judgment to identify and solve problems;
Facilities management including capital projects and general maintenance, telecommunications and IT
Demonstrate sensitivity in handling confidential information;
May be responsible for the work of peers on departmental project teams;
Ensure compliance with Conservancy policies and procedures, and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements; Decisions may bind the organization financially or legally.
Financial responsibility includes purchasing, processing invoices and transfers, and negotiating and contracting with vendors, and participating in budget preparation;
Manage projects with several variables - set realistic deadlines, manage a timeline, and ensure accountability;
May participate in complex negotiations;
Provide input through project teams for the development and implementation of new initiatives or the improvement of existing programs;
Supervise one or more administrative or professional staff, including training and professional development
Partner closely with colleagues to ensure successful execution of NYC office events.
Work environment involves only infrequent exposure to disagreeable elements and minor physical exertion and/or strain;
Be willing to travel, work overtime, and work evenings and weekends as needed
Additional duties may be required.
What You’ll Bring:
Bachelor’s degree and 3 years related experience or equivalent combination.
Experience generating reports and analyzing and interpreting data.
Experience managing and implementing multiple projects.
Experience with business process analysis and/or improvement.
Experience with current technology in relevant field.
Experience working with cross-functional teams.
Desired Qualifications:
Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experiences are appreciated;
Ability to implement complex processes.
Demonstrated experience using diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships and motivate staff;
Experience interpreting guidelines to achieve desired results;
Knowledge of current trends in the specific field;
Strong organization skills, accuracy, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks; and/or
Successful experience implementing strategic program goals.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.
Salary Information:
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $85,000- 90,000. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
Who We Are:
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
What We Bring:
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.

