N² and Ag Tech Program Assistant

San Francisco, CA

The Schmidt Family Foundation – 11th Hour Project /Full-Time /Hybrid

About The Schmidt Family Foundation

Established in 2006 by Wendy and Eric Schmidt, The Schmidt Family Foundation (TSFF) works to restore a balanced relationship between people and planet. Through our grantmaking and investments, we partner with communities around the world working for renewable energy, resilient food systems, healthy oceans, and the protection of human rights.

Our work is carried out through three strategic initiatives:

1. The 11th Hour Project
2. Impact Investing
3. Schmidt Marine Technology Partners (SMTP)

TSFF is a private foundation with assets exceeding $2B and an impact investment portfolio of approximately $160M in AUM.

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and highly organized Program Assistant to support the N² and Ag Tech Programs in delivering on TSFF’s mission through excellent administrative and operational support. This is an administrative-track role ideal for someone who thrives in behind-the-scenes execution, manages details exceptionally well, and enjoys supporting social and environmental change. There are no grantmaking elements of this role.

The Program Assistant will act as a first point of contact for grantees, partners, and internal staff, and will support program staff in a wide range of administrative responsibilities including scheduling, correspondence, record-keeping, and event coordination.

The N² (Nature + Nurture) Program supports organizations, initiatives and movements that enable access and support for youth to thrive through nature and nurture. When we support all young people, particularly those of color, to lead and thrive through meaningful outdoor experiences we see new opportunities for broader social change.

Our Ag Tech program builds on the deep relationships we have established with farmers, civil society, and movements working towards just transitions. Through supporting the design and development of appropriate technologies adapted to local needs and nurturing cooperative innovation ecosystems our ag tech program is advancing a new vision for agricultural technology.

The successful candidate will enjoy supporting others, organizing and working toward the program’s annual grantmaking goals, be relationship-oriented, and have a strong emotional intelligence. This position supports two programs and will report to the N² Program Director.

Grants Management & Program Operations Responsibilities

• • Maintain accurate program files, including grant budgets, contact information, reports, and other key documents.
  • Enter and manage data and internal systems to track grant progress and reporting requirements.
  • Liaise with the foundation’s grants administration and finance teams to ensure grants are processed accurately and timely.
  • Draft grant summaries, gather documentation from grantees, and upload to internal systems.

General Administrative Support Responsibilities

• • Maintain calendars, schedule meetings (often across time zones), and respond to general inquiries.
  • Draft, organize, and respond to email and other written correspondence on behalf of the program.
  • Prepare and process contracts, reports, and other documents.
  • Track and reconcile expense reports; manage travel logistics (booking flights, accommodations, local transport, meals, etc.) as needed.
  • Prepare presentations and internal/external communications.
  • Coordinate logistics for Program-specific events and meetings (remote, in-person, or hybrid), including the foundation’s biennial grantee convening.

Cross-Functional Collaboration Responsibilities

• • Serve as a key connector between program teams and other departments (e.g., grants management, finance, operations).
  • Support coordination and communication with grantees, partner organizations, and external stakeholders.
  • Foster a dynamic, collaborative environment with TSFF colleagues and external communities to achieve program and foundation-wide goals.

Required Qualifications

• • Minimum 2 years of experience in administrative or operational roles.
  • High attention to detail, organization, and time management skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with a warm and professional demeanor.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
  • Demonstrated comfort with independently juggling multiple projects, timelines, and prioritization.
  • Collaborative and team-oriented, with a willingness to take initiative.
  • Ability to work on a range of projects, prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
  • Experience working in or with philanthropic organizations or nonprofits.
  • Cultural humility and sensitivity to working with diverse communities.
  • Fluency in MS Office, Google Suite, and Salesforce or other online databases strongly preferred

Workplace Expectations

This non-exempt position is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a hybrid in office/remote model. The ideal candidate will be already located in the Bay Area or willing to relocate.

Commitment to Diversity

The Schmidt Family Foundation (TSFF) is an equal opportunity employer and we strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported. We believe that diversity brings about greater results on all levels and we aim to use our resources to generate greater impact through our work. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.