Program Officer – Alumni Engagement

PROGRAM OFFICER – ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT at the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST) Sacramento, CA

How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter and resume through our application portal. The cover letter should explain your interest in the position and your relevant skills and experience.
 
OVERVIEW
 
We are a nonpartisan group delivering independent science and technology advice to policymakers so they can make more fiscally-sound and science-based laws that improve the lives of all Californians– especially those who are underserved and underrepresented. We translate and communicate policy-relevant science through our expert briefings, workshops, and peer reviewed reports. We also bring scientists and engineers for a year of government service and leadership training through our fellowship program and place them at the Capitol to work alongside lawmakers.

Our team is collaborative and inclusive.  We believe more minds, with different perspectives and lived experiences, lead to greater impact. We are entrepreneurial and pursue opportunities that meet the greatest needs. Agile, flexible, and responsive, we thrive in the rapidly changing landscape in which we operate. We have a growth mindset and are continuously improving our approach. We care about each other as people.
 
POSITION OVERVIEW PROGRAM OFFICER – ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Each year CCST recruits and trains 10-15 PhD scientists for a year of government service and leadership training in the California Legislature or Executive Branch. After the completion of their Fellowship the majority of Fellows remain working in the policy world. The CCST Science and Technology Policy Fellows (Science Fellows) Alumni network includes over 100 alumni and continues to grow each year. The network is supported by the Alumni Steering Committee – a volunteer group who works to keep alumni connected and provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and career advancement. As the network continues to grow, it is crucial for CCST to create thoughtful programs, services, and communications that ensure that all alumni (current and future) feel a genuine sense of belonging.
 
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
This position reports to the Deputy Director and under their direction works closely with the S&T Policy Fellows Program Manager and alumni as well as the CCST Science Services team, and other CCST stakeholders.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
40% Communications

• Fosters increased communication between CCST, the Alumni network and the Alumni Steering Committee to help strengthen relationships.
• Coordinates the quarterly alumni newsletter with the Alumni Steering Committee.
• Drafts updates to alumni on ongoing CCST work including the fellowship, Science Services, DEI progress, and other CCST engagements and programs.
• Designs processes and creates new opportunities for the convenient exchange of information and advice amongst science policy peers.

30% Outreach

• Executes logistics for monthly Alumni Steering Committee meetings.
• Plans, coordinates, and attends events, meetings, or other activities discussed by the Alumni Steering Committee such as receptions, reunions, and professional development seminars.
• Considers and develops new opportunities to engage alumni and identifies, cultivates, and stewards alumni volunteers for these opportunities.
• Collaborates with appropriate CCST staff to engage alumni through multiple channels.
• Schedules recurring alumni Happy Hours.

15% DEI

• Creates and supports opportunities to further inclusive practices to engage a more diverse representation of alumni.
• Provides opportunities for networking, engagement, and mentoring between alumni and S&T Policy Fellows from traditionally underrepresented and underserved backgrounds.
• Ensures alumni participation in activities that reflect the full diversity of the alumni community.
• Participates in quarterly CCST DEI Committee meetings and coordinates necessary follow-ups with the alumni representative to the DEI Committee.
• Plans continuing education that equips alumni to be informed change agents within their personal spheres of influence.
• Develops meaningful volunteer opportunities, programming, and initiatives that connect alumni around issues of DEI.

15% Fellowship Program Support

• Working closely with the Fellowship Program Manager, integrates new ideas from alumni into the November boot camp, ongoing Friday seminars, and other aspects of the fellowship program.
• Identifies and coordinates with alumni for training panels during the November boot camp.
• Provides support to alumni who are developing new training ideas for the Fellows.
• Coordinates the alumni mentorship program.
• Leads efforts to engage alumni and current Fellows in the semi-final and final interviews for the fellowship program.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree with experience in education, alumni engagement, relationship management or related areas.
• 1-3 years of related experience in alumni relations, fundraising, event management or similar field.
• Must have a working knowledge of diversity, equity and inclusion concepts and issues. Strong support for the sense of belonging and success of those from traditionally underserved populations.
• Well-organized, with strong initiative and great communication skills.
• Flexibility and willingness to jump in where needed to support team goals.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated ability to train and motivate volunteers.
• Experience with underrepresented groups and/or community-based organizations and with issues related to diversity.

SALARY RANGE
$50,000 – $75,000
 
BENEFITS

• Competitive salary
• 403b retirement plan (matching funds after one year of employment)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Currently our office follows a hybrid work schedule
• Help build the future and do meaningful work every day that motivates you!

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The California Council on Science and Technology is an equal opportunity employer. We make hiring decisions based on qualifications, merit, and our organization’s business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, veteran status, pregnancy, or any such status protected under federal, state, or local law.