Officer, Challenge Program

Organization
MIT
Location
Cambridge, MA (United States)
Job Type
Full-time, Hybrid
Where to Apply
https://solve.mit.edu/careers/challenge-program-officer
Tags
Full-time

MIT seeks a “Officer, Challenge Program” (aka: Challenge Program Officer) to work full-time, hybrid in Cambridge, MA, implementing MIT Solve’s open innovation Challenges across our impact areas.

CHALLENGE PROGRAM OFFICER, Solve, plays a crucial role in implementing MIT Solve’s open innovation Challenges across our impact areas. This position executes the processes, communications, events, and workshops that power Solve’s programming, while directly engaging with applicants, judges, and selected innovators; supports Challenge design through research; collaborates with Marketing team; reviews Challenge submissions; leads finalist preparation and support; supports the development of judging panels, including recruitment, communications, and preparation; assists with the support programming for selected innovators; assists with the design and implementation of custom programming; researches and organize additional network contacts; tracks program metrics and assists with monitoring and evaluation of challenge outcomes; provides insight to improve Solve’s promotion, selection, and support programs; and participates in cross-team initiatives.

The salary range is $70,000 – $75,000/year. Find a full job description here: https://solve.mit.edu/careers/challenge-program-officer

About MIT Solve

Solve is an initiative of MIT. We believe that to achieve a more sustainable and equitable future for all, we need new voices and ideas. We launch open calls for exceptional and diverse solutions to the most pressing global challenges, from anyone, anywhere in the world. Selected innovators get the backing of MIT and our community of supporters to scale their impact and drive lasting change.

Position Overview

The Officer, Challenge Programs plays a crucial role in implementing MIT Solve’s open innovation Challenges across our impact areas. This position executes the processes, communications, events, and workshops that power Solve’s programming, while directly engaging with applicants, judges, and selected innovators.

This position will report to Solve’s Program Lead, Climate and offers opportunities to contribute to Solve’s mission across Solve’s impact areas through both internal and external projects. The role may include managing interns as appropriate.

Work Environment

MIT Solve embraces a flexible workplace culture where:

  • Staff are encouraged to work on the MIT campus but may work remotely from within the US on a regular basis
  • In-person attendance is required for specific events throughout the year
  • Presence in Cambridge is required for four weeks annually, plus at least one week during onboarding

Responsibilities

1 – Challenge Programming

  • Implement Solve Challenges throughout the year, working across Solve’s content areas including but not limited to Climate and Learning: (a) Support Challenge design through research, stakeholders engagement, drafting challenge description, guidelines, and FAQs with guidance from Program Lead; (b) Collaborate with Marketing team on targeted Challenge promotion plans to ensure diverse and relevant applicant pool; (c) Review Challenge submissions against criteria including quality and diversity standards; (d) Lead finalist preparation and support, including drafting preparatory materials, coaching them through pitch recordings and preparing them for interviews and pitch events; (e) Support the development of judging panels, including recruitment, communications, and preparation
  • Support the planning, programming, and delivery of Challenge-related sessions at Solve’s flagship events, including logistics and preparation for selected innovators to attend.
  • Assist with the support programming for selected innovators, particularly Solver teams, including cohort meetups, bespoke introductions, sector-specific advice, and speaking opportunities.
  • Assist with the design and implementation of custom programming as necessary, including custom events or new approaches to Solve’s standard selection and support processes.

2 – Data Management

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date Salesforce records for all Challenge-related contacts and activities
  • Research and organize additional network contacts (e.g. judges, applicants, or potential funders), and external events.
  • Track program metrics and assist with monitoring and evaluation of challenge outcomes
  • Make recommendations for improving application and selection processes based on experience and outcomes data, in conjunction with Program Leads and Operations & Measurement staff.

3 – Strategic Contributions

  • Provide insights to improve Solve’s promotion, selection and support programs
  • Contribute ideas to advance Solve’s mission as a premier marketplace for social impact innovation through open innovation and transformational partnerships
  • Work with the Operations & Evaluations team to take a data-driven approach to innovator support programming, measuring needs, satisfaction and results.
  • Participate in cross-team initiatives to strengthen Solve’s internal operations, systems, and processes

 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • A minimum of two years of experience in project management or a related field
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

BENEFICIAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Top candidates will have several of these, none are expected to have all of them.

  • Familiarity with current topics in climate and sustainability, including potential roles for technology and innovation
  • Familiarity with current topics in learning and education, including potential roles for technology and innovation
  • Professional proficiency in Arabic, French, Portuguese, or Spanish
  • Experience working in social and/or environmental impact organization or with entrepreneurs
  • Project implementation and CRM training or experience

The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where they can grow professionally while contributing to global impact. They will demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and a commitment to amplifying innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

BENEFITS:

Working at MIT offers opportunities that just aren’t found anywhere else, including generous and unique benefits that help to ensure that MIT employees are healthy, supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work/life balance. Discover more about what it’s like to work at MIT; visit: https://hr.mit.edu/discoverBenefits are fully described on this page: https://solve.mit.edu/careers/challenge-program-officer

HOW TO APPLY:

This role is Job #24943-7. To learn if applications are still being accepted and to begin the application process, go to: https://solve.mit.edu/careers

We welcome people from all walks of life to bring their talent, ideas, and experience to our community. We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds – like yours. If you want to be part of our exceptional, multicultural, collaborative, and inclusive community, then take a look at this opportunity.

Find other career opportunities at this site: https://solve.mit.edu/careers