Chief Operations Officer
About Science Corps
Science Corps is a small nonprofit organization that sends young scientists to teach and develop STEM curriculum in parts of the world with fewer technological resources. For nine years, Science Corps has placed early-career STEM PhDs at host sites internationally, where they provide hands-on science education to high school and university students. The organization currently sends two to four fellows each year to a site in the Philippines and is considering expanding its program to career sabbaticals. Science Corps is a founder-led organization with a track record of meaningful, lasting impact.
The Role
Science Corps is seeking a part-time leader focused on two priorities: growing the organization's fundraising base and increasing fellowship applications. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who wants to help a small nonprofit mature and become more sustainable. The successful candidate will help strengthen relationships with the Bay Area's scientific and philanthropic communities while expanding awareness of Science Corps' fellowship opportunities. The role reports to the CEO and is supported by a program manager based in the Philippines and the founding team in the US.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising
- Identify and cultivate individual donors, family foundations, and corporate giving programs.
- Build and maintain a donor engagement strategy and communications calendar.
- Develop newsletters, appeals, impact updates, and other donor communications.
- Plan and execute an annual fundraising campaign.
- Develop impact metrics, success stories, and supporting fundraising materials.
Fellowship Applications & Recruitment
- Optimize global outreach strategies to grow the fellowship applicant pool.
- Build relationships with STEM PhD programs, postdoc offices, and relevant institutions.
- Increase awareness of Science Corps fellowship opportunities.
- Improve application materials and the candidate experience.
- Support selection committee logistics during application review cycles.
Social Media & Communications
- Develop and execute a social media strategy supporting both applicants and donors.
- Manage relevant channels including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Twitter, and the Science Corps website.
Bay Area Engagement
- Represent Science Corps at local science communication meetups, philanthropic gatherings, and other relevant events.
- Build relationships with Bay Area scientists and technologists who may become future donors or provide connections to Bay Area technology companies.
- Explore partnerships with local universities, science nonprofits, and other mission-aligned institutions.
- Meet with the Science Corps leadership team to discuss organizational strategy.
Qualifications
- Experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or a related field.
- Comfortable working independently in a small, informal organization.
- Strong written communication skills.
- Genuine interest in science education and international development.
- Existing ties to the Bay Area STEM or philanthropic community are a plus, but not required.
- Knowledge of Bay Area technology companies and Filipino-American cultural, professional, or civic organizations is a strong plus.
- Formal or informal background in science is helpful for representing the organization's mission credibly, but not required.
Compensation
$20,000–$24,000 annually for the 25% position, commensurate with experience.
Working Arrangement
Part-time, 25% FTE. Approximately 10 hours per week. Virtual position; San Francisco Bay Area preferred. Rolling application review.