Science Manager – Nature-based Solutions (80-100%)

Job description

As a Science Manager in Climeworks Solutions, your mission is to ensure that Climeworks’ offering in nature-based solutions (NBS) remains aligned with our high-quality standards for carbon dioxide removal. Specifically focused on, but not limited to, Afforestation, Reforestation and Revegetation (ARR), Improved Forest Management (IFM), and Mangroves, your work will center on market screening, priority project identification and vetting, and due diligence of prospective partners. You will be accountable for forming and defending Climeworks Solutions’ independent scientific view on the quality, risks, and suitability of NBS projects. You are responsible for the continuous refinement and effective application of our assessment criteria for nature-based projects and will work closely with members of the sourcing team to align our strategic approach to nature credits, from supplier engagement through to partnerships and product positioning. This role provides a unique opportunity to define and continuously shape Climeworks Solutions’ nature offering and the broader removal market. Quality assessment framework development: You enhance and tailor Climeworks Quality Assessment Frameworks to nature-based pathways, building on latest published methodologies and evolving standards in the market. Supplier assessment & monitoring : You engage with suppliers of interest and build trusting relationships. You perform rating assessments and benchmark projects. You also monitor projects and evaluate changes in quality or delivery concerns over time. Project due diligence : You perform deep technical, scientific and commercial due diligence on critical projects, covering dimensions such as additionality, measurability, carbon accounting, co-benefits, reversal risk, and operational and delivery-related risk. This entails the analysis of multiple data sources and recommendations from findings. Pathway segmentation : You help classify and segment projects into sub-pathways and archetypes as the CDR industry evolves, building a strong perspective on the foundations of quality for each. Market intelligence & prioritization : In collaboration with Sourcing, you map the project universe across key geographies for relevant pathways. You form a perspective on best-in-class projects and build a recommendation (e.g., robust methodology, attractive prices, strong reputation or delivery track record, etc.). Contracting support : You will support the sourcing team in formulating contracts with vetted suppliers, focusing on negotiating key quality-based amendments and conditions. Partnership development : You help build strategic partnerships with key ecosystem players, such as rating agencies, registries, NGOs, and other thought leaders and market shapers. Pathway-specific strategy : You collaborate with key internal counterparts in Science, Sourcing and the broader Commercial unit to shape the strategy for each nature-based pathway, considering market trends, quality benchmarks, demand drivers, availability and other critical factors. Sales support : You support customer conversations, pitches, and requests for proposals by advising on project selection and answering project-specific questions. Knowledge sharing: You educate internal stakeholders on scientific developments, emerging methodologies, and market evolution across nature-based pathways. Academic Background: You hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., physical, natural, or environmental sciences, ecology, forestry, geography, earth systems or climate science, etc.). PhD is a plus. Industry experience : You demonstrate relevant work experience in nature-based solutions, such as project development, project assessment, ratings, methodology development, MRV, biodiversity monitoring, conservation finance, or related fields. Work experience in carbon markets and carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is a strong plus. Analytical skills : You confidently handle multiple datasets, combining attention to detail and scientific rigor with the ability to draw conclusions from incomplete data. Critical thinking : You think critically, identify inconsistencies, challenge information, and develop creative solutions by connecting insights across projects. Business judgement : You apply sound commercial and strategic judgement to project assessments and broader strategic development. Communication & Language: You communicate complex topics clearly and confidently, while conveying the rigor of assessment. You are fluent in written and spoken English. Working style: You proactively manage multiple projects and workstreams with a high degree of ownership while maintaining clear reporting and records. You build alignment across teams and stakeholders, balancing independent judgement with cross-functional collaboration to support informed decision-making. Our promise: At Climeworks, you are accepted for who you are, and we are committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply – regardless of background, identity, or experience. Studies show that women and individuals from minority backgrounds often only apply for jobs when they meet 100% of the listed criteria. If this sounds like you, don’t hold back. If you think you’d make a great fit for this role, we’d love to hear from you, even if you don’t check every single box. Let’s tackle one of humankind’s greatest challenges together. What we offer: Time Off: Enjoy 25 paid vacation days every year, plus public holidays. Flexibility: Work how it suits you best. We offer a hybrid work setup and up to 4 weeks of remote work annually within any EU country. Ownership: Fair base pay paired with an equity package – because your contributions matter. Family Support: Inclusive parental leave. Continuous Learning: Dedicated budget to invest in your professional growth. Referral Rewards: Help us grow our team and earn bonuses for your successful referrals. Salary: At Climeworks, salary ranges are assigned to a job based on the level of seniority and the location specific market median of similar jobs according to external benchmark surveys. Individual compensation depends on your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the team. Formalities: This position is based in Opfikon, Zurich, and we ask that you work onsite at least three days per week. The percentage in the job title means flexibility – choose full-time or part-time based on what works for you. We do not accept candidate profiles through recruitment agencies.