Program Assistant, Congressional Relations – PROGR002257-00001

DESCRIPTION/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace worldwide. 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 worldwide. Together we tackle the most challenging 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 on the world stage, USIP is the place for you.

JOB BRIEF

As part of the Congressional Relations and Engagement Unit at USIP, the Program Assistant will provide support to the team to achieve the congressional relations strategy. Among the duties, the Program Assistant focuses on congressional contact lists, research, coordination of logistics, database, and support budget and contract management activities related to USIP engagements in states and districts across the country. The Program Assistant is energetic and organized, possesses time management skills, and meets deadlines. This position is based in Washington, DC, works with the team, and reports to the Chief of Congressional Relations and Engagement.

TARGET SALARY

Grade 07 – $53,000 – $54,000

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

RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Support:

* Produces a weekly report on upcoming Congressional hearings, events, and key issues by monitoring Congressional publications, news, and schedules for legislative developments and opportunities to engage Congress on USIP and its work.

* Conducts program-related research and writing that includes drafting letters and mail merges.

* Conducts research on Members of Congress and congressional districts in advance of USIP engagements across the country.

* Creates and updates congressional lists for USIP engagements in states and districts across the country.

* Supports Institute-wide events, exhibits, and programs that involve outreach to states and districts across the country.

* Coordinates with Centers and Units within USIP to facilitate and track outreach.

* Monitors Congressional-related information on an internal website.

Operational Support:

* Assists with events and provides administrative and logistical support in the planning and execution of events.

* Assists in the management of administrative needs in the day-to-day operations of Congressional Relations.

* Maintains electronic files and database of congressional activities.

* Tasked with administrative projects as needed.

Procurement / Finance / Travel / Budget:

* Works in financial management systems and databases.

* Provides contract management support activities, including the drafting and submission of requisitions and orders, ensuring contracts are successfully awarded in a timely manner, processing invoices and receipts, and monitoring payment of contractor services.

* Provides technical advice on contract related requirements in coordination with USIP’s Finance team and the center’s Resource Manager.

* Makes travel arrangements and overnight accommodations for center/division staff and invitational travelers. Responds to phone inquiries and answers questions from travelers regarding logistical items. Makes changes and adjustments in travel and accommodation as requested.

* Process travel vouchers and local expense claims on behalf of team and invitational travelers.

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 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.

CLOSING DATE OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS 11/23/23.

All applicants must be US citizens to be considered for positions with USIP.

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

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

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, gender identity, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.