Application Guide

How to Apply for Co-Founder/COO

at Alaska Future Ecology Institute

🏢 About Alaska Future Ecology Institute

AFEI is at the forefront of Arctic Rewilding, a cutting-edge nature-based solution to climate change. They combine rigorous science with on-the-ground implementation, working with Indigenous communities and global partners. If you want to directly combat permafrost thaw and biodiversity loss, this is where you can make a tangible impact.

About This Role

As Co-Founder/COO, you'll be the operational backbone of a growing nonprofit, translating visionary science into real-world programs. You'll oversee daily operations, build partnerships, manage budgets, and scale the organization from concept to execution. Your work will directly accelerate the deployment of Arctic Rewilding.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a check-in with the science team on field research progress, followed by a call with a potential funder. Afternoon could involve reviewing a partnership agreement with an Alaska Native village council, then strategizing with the co-founder on next year's budget. You'll often juggle operational logistics, stakeholder communications, and grant reporting.

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🎯 Who Alaska Future Ecology Institute Is Looking For

  • Proven experience as a COO or senior operations leader in a startup or nonprofit, preferably in climate, ecology, or conservation.
  • Deep understanding of Arctic ecology, permafrost dynamics, or rewilding science, or ability to quickly grasp complex scientific concepts.
  • Strong network in Alaska or Arctic regions, including relationships with Indigenous communities, land managers, or policymakers.
  • Fundraising and grant management experience, with a track record of securing six- to seven-figure grants.

📝 Tips for Applying to Alaska Future Ecology Institute

1

Tailor your resume to highlight operational scaling of research or conservation programs, not just general management.

2

Submit a cover letter that explicitly connects your experience to Arctic Rewilding and permafrost mitigation.

3

Mention any familiarity with Alaska Native communities or rural Alaska operations.

4

Include examples of how you've managed cross-functional teams in a remote or distributed environment.

5

Show that you understand the urgency of climate tipping points and how AFEI's work addresses them.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for Arctic conservation and understanding of rewilding as a climate solution.', 'Specific operational achievements (e.g., scaling a team, launching a field site, managing a budget over $X).', 'Your ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes, especially with Indigenous groups and government agencies.', "Why you're excited about co-founding and building an organization from an early stage."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read AFEI's published research or white papers on Arctic Rewilding.
  • → Study the current state of permafrost thaw in Alaska and related policy initiatives.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key stakeholders: Alaska Native corporations, USFWS, BLM, and NGOs like The Rewilding Institute.
  • → Understand the science behind herbivore-induced albedo change and methane reduction.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you prioritize competing demands in a resource-constrained startup environment?
2 Describe your experience working with Indigenous communities or on tribal lands.
3 What is your understanding of permafrost carbon feedback and how rewilding addresses it?
4 How would you approach fundraising for a niche climate solution like Arctic Rewilding?
5 Tell us about a time you managed a remote team across multiple time zones.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't apply if you lack experience in early-stage organizational building or nonprofit operations.
  • Avoid generic climate buzzwords; show specific knowledge of Arctic systems.
  • Don't ignore the remote nature of the role—demonstrate your ability to work asynchronously and self-motivate.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Alaska Future Ecology Institute!

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