Lead high-impact climate action with communities at the centre

xpand Foundation is seeking a Technical Program Manager to lead its innovative community-led carbon programs.

Working in Timor-Leste with local partners, xpand supports thousands of smallholder farmers to restore landscapes, strengthen livelihoods, and generate high-quality carbon credits under the Gold Standard.

Our flagship programs, WithOneSeed and Rai Matak, are globally recognised, alongside TreeO2, our cutting-edge digital MRV system enabling real-time, auditable carbon data and scalable forestry models.

About the role

This is a hands-on leadership role focused on delivering high-quality carbon projects in complex, real-world environments.

You will lead the integration of:

• Carbon methodologies and certification requirements.
• Field implementation with community partners.
• Data systems and MRV (TreeO2).
• Reporting and audit readiness.

A key focus is building long-term technical capability in Timor-Leste, ensuring local teams can independently deliver and scale these programs.

You'll work closely with in-country teams, xpand leadership, and technical partners including Pollination Group, translating technical design into practical, effective delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Lead implementation of carbon projects (ARR) to Gold Standard requirements.
• Oversee MRV systems, data quality, and certification processes.
• Build and mentor technical teams in Timor-Leste.
• Develop SOPs, QA systems, and field protocols.
• Manage project timelines, risks, and delivery.
• Coordinate with technical advisors and partners.
• Ensure clear, credible reporting to stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement across systems and operations.

About you

You are a practical, systems-oriented leader who can bridge technical carbon knowledge with on-the-ground delivery.

Essential.

• Experience in carbon project development (ARR or similar).
• Strong knowledge of Gold Standard and/or Verra.
• Experience in community forestry or nature-based solutions.
• Strong project and team management skills.
• Experience working in developing country or field contexts.
• Demonstrated ability to train and build capacity.
• Willingness to spend significant time in Timor-Leste.
• Basic GIS understanding .

Desirable.

• Experience with digital MRV systems.
• SOP and training system development.
• Cross-cultural leadership experience.

Why join xpand?

• Work on globally leading, community-based carbon programs.
• Deliver real impact for thousands of smallholder farmers.
• Combine field-based work with cutting-edge climate tech.
• Help build a nationally significant model for Timor-Leste.
• Join a mission-driven, collaborative team.
• Learn about our national scale initiative, Rai Matak, here: https://vimeo.com/1034089075.

Please see the position description attached below for more information.