Overview

The Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) conducts scientific research, restoration, and capacity building to promote marine conservation outcomes with a focus on tropical coral reefs. A critical component of these activities includes implementing large, multi-partner projects that integrate reef restoration with community development and enhancing food security.

We are seeking an early career or recent college graduate interested in launching a career at the intersection of environmental science, international development, and nonprofit finance. The Junior Financial Specialist (Nonprofit & International Projects) will play a key role in supporting the ARMS Resilience project, a fixed-term, three-year position aligned with a National Science Foundation grant to PIMS to restore coral reefs and reduce malnourishment in southwest Madagascar.

The successful applicant will focus on financial tracking, reporting, and compliance, with additional responsibilities in project coordination and communications/PR. They will receive mentorship and on-the-job training in federal grant management and nonprofit financial operations, which can provide a strong foundation for a career in conservation finance or international program management.

Location

The position is based at the PIMS office in Waitsfield, Vermont, with the possibility of a hybrid schedule (combination of in-office and remote work). On-site parking and an accessible office building are provided. Public transportation is limited in the area, necessitating reliable transportation to Waitsfield, Vermont.

Responsibilities

Financial Management & Grant Oversight (40%)

This is the core focus of the role. The successful candidate will:

• Track expenditures, hours, and miscellaneous HR responsibilities (currently using Expensify, QuickBooks, and QuickBooks Time)
• Prepare financial reports and ensure compliance with federal grant requirements, other funder requirements, and state and federal law
• Coordinate partner financials and reconcile receipts
• Assist in financial forecasting and budgeting

Project Coordination & Partner Support (30%)

• Help schedule meetings, events, travel, and logistics for the project team
• Track deliverables and timelines for PIMS staff and partner personnel
• Support communication between project partners under guidance of senior staff
• Assist with contracts and work plans

Communications & Organizational Support (30%)

• Support ARMS Resilience communications, including content preparation
• Contribute to organizational operations and administrative needs

Qualifications

We welcome applications from recent college graduates and early-career professionals who are organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, nonprofit management, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets (e.g., formulas, pivot tables, data organization); some coursework or experience in accounting or financial management is a plus
• Able to maintain audit-ready financial records and documentation
• Capable of handling sensitive financial and personnel information with discretion and confidentiality
• Able to identify inefficiencies and improve financial or operational workflows
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Able to synthesize financial and project information into clear written summaries
• Can work effectively across cultures and with international partners
• Willing to occasionally accommodate meetings across multiple time zones (including early mornings or evenings)
• Able to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced team
• Fluent in written and spoken English

Preferred (but not required):

• French language proficiency
• Some experience with QuickBooks, Expensify, or similar financial software
• Interest or background in conservation, development, or nonprofit work
• Skills in social media and website communication, marketing, and PR

Growth & Mentorship

PIMS is committed to supporting the professional development of this hire. The Junior Financial Specialist will receive:

• Direct mentorship from the Chief Operating Officer and a Senior Scientist
• Hands-on training in federal grant compliance and nonprofit financial management
• Exposure to international conservation fieldwork and the potential opportunity for travel to Madagascar or other project sites
• Experience working within a global consortium of scientists and NGO partners

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $45,000 – $55,000 annually
• Fixed term: three (3) years, aligned with NSF grant duration
• Company-supported medical insurance
• Company-supported retirement plan
• Vacation and sick time
• Potential for travel to Madagascar and other project sites

Work Environment

• Extended periods of desk and computer work
• No lifting requirements
• On-site parking and accessible office building
• Frequent virtual meetings with international partners
• Small office environment (no more than two coworkers)

Reporting Structure

This position reports to:

• Dr. Aaron Hartmann, Senior Scientist and Project Lead
• Latoya Anderson-Reeves, Chief Operating Officer

About the Perry Institute for Marine Science

PIMS is a US 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1970, with an affiliated Bahamian non-profit registered in 1971. We have active projects in more than a dozen countries across the Caribbean and around the world, working with local partners to provide scientific support for marine conservation, restoration, and education.