Program Developer and Fundraiser

Waag Futurelab contributes to the research, design, and development of a sustainable, equitable society. We do this by collaboratively exploring emerging technologies and questioning underlying cultural assumptions; by experimenting with technology and designing alternatives based on public values; and by working with society to develop an open, fair, and inclusive future. We do this with a team of more than 60 artists, designers, and scientists. Over the past 29 years, Waag has contributed to the development and positioning of digital culture, thereby establishing an international reputation.

About Team LEARN 

The LEARN project group focuses on (informal) learning. The group investigates what and how we need to learn in order to contribute to an open, fair, and inclusive society. Everyone learns everywhere: at home, online, in museums and libraries, and in the neighborhood. In our projects, we conduct participatory research and create interventions within existing processes and systems. These are diverse, often very concrete activities: designing and leading interactive maker workshops for young people, setting up a program focused on maker education, or drafting policy recommendations. We carry out these activities in projects at the European, national, and local levels, ranging in duration from 3 months to 3 years. 

Project Development

Project development is one of Waag’s core activities, which supports the organization’s funding and sustainability. Each group within Waag has a Program Developer/Fundraiser who develops project proposals and proposals within the group and monitors the quality of these proposals and the associated budgets.

Summary 

As a Program Developer, you’ll be the central figure in securing funding for Waag’s design-based research. Working closely with your colleagues at LEARN, you’ll develop ideas into clear project proposals that align with the research agendas of LEARN and Waag Futurelab.

Responsibilities

• You are responsible for project development at LEARN 
• You will help ensure that the project group can work on new projects and achieve its financial goals.
• You translate conceptual ideas into concrete project plans and activities, complete with a corresponding budget.
• You keep a close eye on new developments related to LEARN’s areas of focus.
• You will maintain contact with partners, grant providers, and foundations, and promote the vision, mission, and results of Waag Futurelab
• You will be part of the organization-wide Project Development Team, with whom you will regularly coordinate, share knowledge, and make plans regarding new opportunities. 

What are we looking for? 

Skills and experience

• You are an experienced project developer
• You quickly spot opportunities and know how to capitalize on them by securing funding. You can easily translate abstract ideas and assignments into program and project proposals
• You have experience writing national or international grant applications and project proposals, including preparing budgets. You have a proven track record in this area
• You have a relevant network and can easily connect with external parties and potential clients
•  You know how to appeal to different target audiences.
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills in Dutch and English.

Knowledge

• You share Waag’s values and mission
• You have a strategic and critical perspective on technology and society
• You are familiar with the areas LEARN focuses on and can quickly familiarize yourself with and get up to speed on topics such as hands-on education, maker culture, technological citizenship, craftsmanship, and co-creation. 

Personal qualities, attitude, and behavior

• You are results-oriented
• You are eager to learn and curious, you are reflective, and you see feedback as an effective way to grow
• You are diplomatic and can present yourself well in a wide variety of settings, from activist to bureaucratic
• You're a networker.
• You enjoy getting things done and are good at keeping track of the big picture.
•  You have a business-minded approach and are skilled at positioning new developments
• You have an affinity for creative disciplines in art, design, science, and the maker culture.

We strongly prefer a candidate who will enhance diversity at Waag.

What do we offer? 

• Waag has two stunning office locations in the heart of Amsterdam: the historic buildings Het Pintohuis and De Waag on Nieuwmarkt.
• Work in a dynamic team of artists, scientists, and designers who are helping to build an open, fair, and inclusive future.
• Openness, honesty, and inclusivity are the values that guide Waag in its commitment to being a good employer and in selecting the right candidate to enhance Waag’s diversity.
•  Depending on your knowledge and experience, the estimated salary for a 40-hour workweek is €2,960–€4,670 (UFO Scale 10). 
• Flexibility in the workplace: sometimes at home, sometimes at the office, sometimes at a partner’s location.

Deadline: October 3, 2023 

For more information about this job opening, please contact Pam de Sterke, Head of Programme Learn: pam@waag.org

Recruitment agencies are asked to refrain from contacting us regarding this job opening.