Program Officer, Special Initiatives & Grants

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation; Los Altos, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental and vision coverage

Pension/retirement contributions (15%)

Adoption and fertility benefits

Tuition assistance

Job summary

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation seeks a Program Officer for Special Initiatives to lead the Philanthropy Fund and Special Opportunities portfolio, engaging with trustees and staff to shape strategy and grants across the foundation.

You will manage long‑term relationship grants, support ad‑hoc projects, and coordinate across initiatives, driving impact while aligning with the Foundation’s mission and values. Hybrid work in Los Altos with travel required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in the social or philanthropic sector.
• Bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is strongly preferred.
• Track record as a results‑oriented program manager within philanthropic, nonprofit, management consulting, academic or government contexts.
• Highly skilled and persuasive communicator with exceptional written, oral, interpersonal and presentation skills.
• This position requires travel a minimum of 20% of the time and occasional work outside regular hours to accommodate time zones.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Philanthropy Fund and Special Opportunities Portfolio, including grantmaking, diligence, and reporting.
• Engage with trustees, program staff, consultants, and grantees to ensure effective strategy implementation.
• Develop and oversee grant proposal processes and dashboards; manage complex multi‑institution collaborations.
• Provide project management, analysis, and partnership support for ad‑hoc special projects and cross‑foundation initiatives.
• Represent the Foundation in meetings, conferences, and with nonprofit and government leaders.

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation seeks a Program Officer for Special Initiatives to lead the Philanthropy Fund and Special Opportunities portfolio, engaging with trustees and staff to shape strategy and grants across the foundation.

You will manage long‑term relationship grants, support ad‑hoc projects, and coordinate across initiatives, driving impact while aligning with the Foundation’s mission and values. Hybrid work in Los Altos with travel required.