Program Assistant, Congressional Relations – PROGR002004-00001

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace around the world. We know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing and mitigating violent conflict.

We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts around the world. Together we tackle the toughest problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world. (To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers.

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front row seat to the world stage, USIP is the place for you.

JOB BRIEF

As part of the Office of Congressional Relations at USIP, the Program Assistant will provide administrative and operational support to the Congressional Relations team to achieve their objectives and the goals of the Institute. Among the duties, the Program Assistant will update congressional contact lists, conduct research, coordinate event logistics, maintain database, and support budget and contract management activities. This position is based in Washington, DC and reports to the Director of Congressional Relations.

TARGET SALARY RANGE

Grade 7 – $50,000 – $52,000

The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Offers of employment are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity and amount budgeted for the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative and Operational Support: * Assists in the management of administrative needs in the day-to-day operations of Congressional Relations. * Assists with the Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue events, including creating outreach lists and providing administrative and logistical support in the planning and execution of these events. * Maintains appropriate lists for outreach to Members of Congress and congressional staff for meetings, briefings, mass mailings, events, and other outreach. * Tracks and catalogs Member of Congress and congressional staff travel abroad. * Conducts program-related research and writing that includes drafting letters and mail merges. * Attends hearings and events on Capitol Hill and produces summary reports. * Maintains electronic files for Congressional Relations related materials. * Makes deliveries to congressional offices. * Orders office supplies. * Tasked with administrative projects as needed.

Procurement / Finance / Travel / Budget: * Assists with the maintenance of financial systems and databases, inputs transactions correctly, obligating funds, processing travel vouchers and reimbursements. * Assists with contract management support activities, including completing the USIP contract template, processing invoices, and monitoring payment of contractor services. * Makes travel arrangements and overnight accommodations for center/division staff and project participants by obtaining and coordinating travel schedules, reserving overnight accommodations and transportation modes, and by obtaining and delivering tickets to the traveler. Responds to phone inquiries and answers questions from travelers regarding logistical items. Makes changes and adjustments in travel and accommodation as requested. * Coordinates both routine and more complex logistical arrangements for events for Congressional Relations as needed. Coordinates with Conferences, Meetings & Events to establish venues, select food and supplies, and determine room set-up. Coordinates similarly with outside vendors when Congressional Relations events take place on Capitol Hill.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, public policy, or related field. * One or more years of experience working in international relations, international conflict resolution, congressional relations, or equivalent experience. * An understanding of Capitol Hill and the legislative process, and work experience on Capitol Hill is preferred. * Experience working with Salesforce, Quorum and Leadership Directories online is preferred. * Excellent writing skills. * Strong skills in the Microsoft Office Suite, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel. * Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines. * Strong work ethic and team oriented.

All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.

Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

HOW TO APPLY To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:

1. Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire and salary requirements.
2. Cover letter
3. Resume

For questions about this position please email [email protected]. Do not send resumes or attachments to this email address.

Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted.

No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only.

USIP is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of USIP to offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.