The Lemelson Foundation uses the power of invention to improve lives. 

Established by prolific US inventor Jerome Lemelson and his wife Dorothy in the early 1990s, and guided today by the Lemelson family, we believe invention can solve many of the biggest economic and social challenges of our time. That’s why we work to strengthen the ecosystems where inventions can take shape, grow, and flourish. For more than two decades we have inspired young people from diverse backgrounds to tackle the world’s most daunting problems, advanced the field of invention education with a goal of reaching all children, and equipped entrepreneurs with the skills they need to start successful invention-based businesses. A private philanthropy, The Lemelson Foundation has investment assets of around $370 million and an annual budget of approximately $18 million. All told, we have provided over $200 million in grants and other investments to hundreds of organizations around the world.

The Position

The goal of our Developing Country Entrepreneurship Initiative is to incubate promising Invention-Based Enterprises (IBEs), accelerate their growth, and build enduring local supporting ecosystems to meet the needs of the poor at scale.

Reporting directly to the Senior Director of Strategy and working closely with colleagues across the Foundation, the Program Officer, Developing Country Entrepreneurship Initiative (Program Officer) will be an integral part of our close-knit team. The Program Officer will help shape and oversee progress against the Foundation’s strategy for the Developing Country Entrepreneurship Initiative going forward. The role also provides support on issues that cut across the Foundation's priorities and are of high importance to the overall strategy. There are ample opportunities to participate in internal working groups and team projects that support the priorities and overall mission of the Foundation. Along with the Executive Director, Senior Director of Strategy, program, communications, and administrative staff, the Program Officer participates in shaping and advancing the Foundation's business processes, particularly as they relate to grant making and management.

The ideal candidate will share with every Foundation employee a deep personal connection to our work and embrace our commitment to positive social change, economic growth, and environmental responsibility. We seek individuals who are driven to be key contributors and leaders within the organization and bring positive energy to influence to our culture of inquiry, learning, and collaboration. A minimum of seven years of professional experience required, with five years in engineering, technology, science, invention, and/or entrepreneurship in an invention-based business.

View the full position profile here to learn more about the Lemelson Foundation, the ideal candidate, and desired qualifications.

To Be Considered

The Lemelson Foundation values diversity in all forms and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. A carefully crafted cover letter that articulates your interest in the position and fit for the role, along with a current resume, should be submitted for consideration through Waldron’s candidate web portal