Sustainability Lead Specialist - 26041

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) seeks a Sustainability Lead Specialist to lead internal sustainability initiatives, including GHG data collection and reduction strategies. This role involves collaboration with various teams and external partners to achieve sustainability goals. The position is based in Washington, DC, with a hybrid work structure requiring at least 2 days in the office. The salary range is $107,500 - $154,600 for a limited term of 2 years.
Overview:

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Sustainability Lead Specialist.

Lead WWF’s internal sustainability initiatives, including its annual GHG data collection process, building and reporting of WWF’s GHG inventory, and identifying and implementing actions leading to the reduction of GHG emissions. This role will be instrumental in driving forward our commitment to sustainability on WWF’s journey to net zero by 2050, working closely with cross-functional teams to integrate sustainable practices into all aspects of our business operations.

Salary Range: $107,500 - $154,600

Position Length: Limited Term - 2 years

Location: Washington, D.C. (Hybrid work structure with minimum of 2 days a week in office)

Please note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Responsibilities:
• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory management strategies for WWF-US’s 14 US-based and global offices, including data collection, analysis, and reporting, to track and reduce the organization's carbon footprint in alignment with sustainability goals and the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)
• Foster collaboration with internal stakeholders across departments and external partners including suppliers, industry organizations, and governmental bodies to identify, develop, and execute decarbonization strategies, leveraging best practices and innovative solutions to achieve sustainability targets and mitigate environmental impact effectively
• Provide leadership and oversight to WWF’s Green Team, guiding and empowering team members to drive sustainability initiatives, manage activities, recommend and implement best practices and continuous improvement throughout the organization
• Collaborate with procurement team to assess and improve the sustainability of our supply chain, including responsible sourcing, ethical procurement practices, and supplier engagement
• Support network reporting requirements for annual carbon emissions Global Annual Report (GAR)
• Work with Global Science and the Goal teams to estimate the climate mitigation benefit of WWF-US's work
• Identify and assess sustainability risks and opportunities, integrating risk management into decision-making processes and developing mitigation strategies as needed
• Develop training programs and initiatives to increase employee awareness and engagement in sustainability efforts, fostering a culture of sustainability across the organization
• Support LEED certification renewals for WWF’s LEED Platinum Washington, DC headquarters
• Performs other duties as assigned

Core Competencies
• Leading & influencing - Inspires and mobilizes teams and leadership around sustainability priorities by articulating a compelling vision, driving accountability, and influencing decision-making through data-driven insights and leadership.
• Collaboration - Builds strong partnerships across departments, local and country offices, and external stakeholders to integrate sustainability into business operations, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and continuous improvement.
• Organizational Courage / Change Advocacy - Champions bold sustainability goals and advocates for systemic change, even in the face of resistance, by constructively challenging the status quo and navigating complex organizational dynamics with integrity and resilience.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement - Effectively communicates sustainability concepts in clear, compelling ways tailored to diverse audiences including domestic and overseas peers, WWF leadership, and partner organizations. Builds trust and alignment by actively engaging all stakeholders, facilitating transparent dialogue, and driving shared ownership of sustainability priorities and outcomes.
• Attention to Detail & Organization - Maintains high accuracy in managing sustainability data, reporting, and documentation, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. Demonstrates strong organizational skills by structuring complex projects, tracking multiple workstreams, and delivering high-quality outputs in a fast paced environment.

Qualifications:
• A bachelor's degree in Sustainability, Environmental/Climate Science, or other related field with a minimum of 8 years of experience in corporate sustainability and/or an advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accounting, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, in alignment with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol standards
• Proven experience in developing and implementing sustainability strategies in an NGO or corporate setting.
• Proficient in applying emissions factors from recognized sources (e.g., EPA, DEFRA, IEA) to calculate and analyze organizational carbon footprints, and in managing data quality and transparency in emissions reporting
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and drive results
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data to inform decision-making
• Certification in sustainability (e.g., LEED, CSR, GRI) preferred
• Passion for sustainability and a commitment to driving positive change
• Proficiency in written and spoken Spanish to support communication with diverse stakeholders required.
• Minimal travel may be required; however, majority of work will occur in the office (hybrid work model with 2 days per week in office).
• Committed to building and strengthening a culture of inclusion within and across teams.
• Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values: Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration:
• Demonstrates courage by speaking up even when it is difficult, or unpopular.
• Builds trust with colleagues by acting with integrity, owning mistakes, and holding oneself accountable.
• Welcomes other points of view and ideas, recognizing and embracing different and contrary perspectives with kindness, curiosity, and encouragement.
• Makes conscious efforts to promote cooperative practices, behaviors, and ways of working across many groups and individuals.

To Apply:
• Submit cover letter and resume through our Careers Page, Requisition #26041
• Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to respond to inquiries via phone

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.