Alumni Associate

Schmidt Sciences is a nonprofit organization founded in 2024 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt that works to accelerate scientific knowledge and breakthroughs with the most promising, advanced tools to support a thriving planet. The organization prioritizes research in areas poised for impact including AI and advanced computing, astrophysics, biosciences, climate, and space—as well as supporting researchers in a variety of disciplines through its science systems program.

We are seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Alumni Associate to design, grow, and strengthen our alumni engagement with research scientists for Schmidt Sciences. This new position is central to building a vibrant community of more than 1,000 former and existing grantees and fellows who remain connected, supported, and engaged with the Schmidt Sciences mission. We operate in five areas of science including AI and advanced computing, astrophysics and space, biosciences, climate, and science systems.

The Alumni Associate will be responsible for the strategic development and day-to-day management of alumni engagement initiatives. This role will support career and professional development opportunities, alumni data maintenance, and encourage alumni participation in organizational activities, events, and evaluation efforts. The Alumni Associate will serve as the primary liaison between alumni and Schmidt Sciences program teams, fostering long-term relationships that enhance community impact, storytelling and advance institutional goals.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive alumni engagement strategy to develop and support a growing community of alumni, strengthening long-term connections to Schmidt Sciences
• Maintain accurate alumni records within Schmidt Science’s CRM database; analyze engagement data and prepare reports to inform decision-making
• Generate content for alumni communications, including newsletters, email campaigns, etc., ensuring consistent and professional storytelling
• Plan, coordinate, and execute alumni events and programs, including reunions, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and professional development sessions
• Establish systems to identify and support alumni who can serve as ambassadors, mentors, volunteers, and advocates for the organization
• Collaborate with internal teams to align alumni activities with Schmidt Sciences priorities
• Develop, pitch, and curate press stories to spotlight alumni research and careers
• Track existing fellows and grantees, monitoring activities and achievements, including but not limited to papers and bodies of work, speaking engagements
• Develop events, communications, and networking opportunities
• Create opportunities for alumni to contribute back to the community through mentorship, advisory roles, proposal reviewers, and collaborative projects
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of community-building initiatives and award programs, using feedback to continuously improve engagement efforts
• Scale community visibility and build a presence at events related to our focus areas
• Conduct ongoing needs assessments to evaluate alumni interests and adapt programming accordingly
• Assist with other communication efforts, including but not limited to storytelling, branding, messaging, social media, and other duties as needed
• Travel will be necessary to attend alumni gatherings or represent the organization at external events

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, science, or related field
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in alumni relations, community management, external relations, or comparable roles
• Demonstrated success in project management, communications, and relationship management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in CRM/database systems such as Salesforce, Google Suite, Airtable, and digital communication platforms
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously
• Ability to identify compelling narratives that demonstrate impact
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment

$110,000 - $150,000 a year

This is an exempt position.

Schmidt Sciences, is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that proudly pursues and hires a diverse workforce. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion or religious belief, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws or prohibited by Company policy.

We strive for a healthy and safe workplace and strictly prohibit harassment of any kind.