Paralegal at National Geographic Society – United States
Recruiter: National Geographic Society
About National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational institutions, founded in 1888. It supports exploration, conservation, research, and education through grants, fellowships, and partnerships. The Society uses the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world, funding over 3,000 explorers, scientists, and educators globally.
Job Summary
This position offers an opportunity to contribute to international cooperation and sustainable development within National Geographic Society’s important work in international cooperation and sustainable development. Working in United States, you will collaborate with international colleagues and partners to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. Your responsibilities will include: Contract Drafting & Review (45%). Independently draft agreements based on organizational templates (e.g., vendor agreements, independent contractor agreements, program documents, event production agreements). Conduct initial review of third-party and non-standard agreements; identify deviations, risks, or issues, and summarize key points for attorney evaluation. Draft routine amendments, releases, notices, and related legal correspondence. Additionally, you will: Research & Compliance Support (25%). Perform targeted legal and factual research using electronic research platforms. Prep are clear, concise written summaries of findings for attorney review. Assist in developing internal guidance materials, checklists, and training resources related to compliance, contract processes, or new legal requirements. This role provides an excellent opportunity for professional growth while making a meaningful contribution to international cooperation and global peace and security.
Full Job Description
How Youll Contribute
Your Impact
Responsibilities Include:
Contract Drafting & Review (45%). Independently draft agreements based on organizational templates (e.g., vendor agreements, independent contractor agreements, program documents, event production agreements). Conduct initial review of third-party and non-standard agreements; identify deviations, risks, or issues, and summarize key points for attorney evaluation. Draft routine amendments, releases, notices, and related legal correspondence.
Research & Compliance Support (25%). Perform targeted legal and factual research using electronic research platforms. Prepare clear, concise written summaries of findings for attorney review. Assist in developing internal guidance materials, checklists, and training resources related to compliance, contract processes, or new legal requirements.
Legal Administration & Management (20%). Maintain and manage contract and matter-tracking systems, ensuring accuracy and adherence to records management and audit policies. Coordinate signature routing, finalize documentation, and support contract close-out. Proactively identify opportunities to streamline administrative processes and improve departmental workflows.
Client Support & Interaction (10%). Serve as a professional, reliable point of contact for internal clients. Respond to routine inquiries, triage incoming requests, and ensure accurate routing to attorneys as needed. Help maintain smooth communication between clients and the LBA team.
What Youll Bring
Educational background BA degree or a paralegal certificate from an accredited program required.
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
4+ years of paralegal experience in a corporate, nonprofit, law firm, or in-house setting, with a strong focus on contract drafting or contract lifecycle management.
Necessary Knowledge and Skills
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word and Google Suite; experience working with databases or contract management platforms (e.g., Agiloft or similar). Strong legal research skills.
Ability to interpret and summarize contract terms with accuracy and clarity. Exceptional attention to detail and high standards for grammar, formatting, and document organization.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; professional presence with all levels of internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to manage competing deadlines and prioritize a high volume of work.
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and exercising sound judgment.
Desired Qualifications
Familiarity with nonprofit or tax-exempt legal considerations (fundraising, charitable solicitation, compliance) is a plus.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Self-motivated, organized, and proactive in identifying and addressing administrative or operational needs.
Supervision
No direct report
Salary Information
The National Geographic Society offers a competitive and holistic total rewards package. Our compensation structure and transparent pay philosophy are based on industry-specific market data for similar-sized nonprofit organizations.
The salary range for this position accounts for a wide range of factors including but not limited to organizational need; specific skill sets; experience and training; certifications; and more. At the National Geographic Society, individuals are typically hired at or near the starting point of the salary range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.
In addition, the National Geographic Society offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package that includes, but is not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; engaging and comprehensive wellness program; 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment; flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave; 12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31 (May not apply to all roles that are required to work during high volume seasons or essential workers. Please check with the hiring manager for confirmation.); paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits; learning and development opportunities; Lifestyle Spending Account; pet adoption assistance and insurance; pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy; employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit; and a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks.
Job Designation
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
W e encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.
Key Details
- Job Title: Paralegal
- Grade: N/A
- Location: Washington, D.C., United States
- Department: National Geographic Society
- Contract Type: Professional Staff
- Estimated Salary Range:$84,000 – $144,000 USD annually
Qualifications
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word and Google Suite; experience working with databases or contract management platforms (e.g., Agiloft or similar). Strong legal research skills.
- Ability to interpret and summarize contract terms with accuracy and clarity. Exceptional attention to detail and high standards for grammar, formatting, and document organization.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; professional presence with all levels of internal and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to manage competing deadlines and prioritize a high volume of work.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and exercising sound judgment.
- Familiarity with nonprofit or tax-exempt legal considerations (fundraising, charitable solicitation, compliance) is a plus.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Self-motivated, organized, and proactive in identifying and addressing administrative or operational needs.
Skills
- Not specified in the official posting
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package
- Professional development opportunities
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Inclusive and collaborative work environment
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official UN careers portal. Female candidates and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.