Research and Operations Assistant

About Us:

The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress is a non-partisan convener of leaders and experts from the government, private sector, and academia that works to foster bipartisan solutions to our nation’s most pressing challenges, often with a national security focus. We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Research and Operations Assistant to join our team. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth execution of our events, supporting senior staff with research, managing digital communications, and handling essential administrative tasks. 

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, but it is highly recommended candidates apply by July 26. 

Position Description:

The Research and Operations Assistant will play a critical role in supporting the daily operations of our organization. The ideal candidate will be organized, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks efficiently. This position requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and strong research and writing abilities. This role will support programs across our diverse research areas, including geotechnology, transatlantic security, economic security, space policy, and political reform. Additionally, the role will contribute to our functional programs focused on leadership development and Congressional relations. 

Primary Responsibilities:

Event Management 

• Support the planning and execution of CSPC digital and in-person roundtables and events. 
• Manage event logistics, including the dissemination of invites, vendor coordination, basic technology set-up, and attendee registration. 
• Develop event materials such as agendas, invitations, and promotional content. 
• Provide critical support for our annual Presidential Fellows Conference and Awards Dinner at both the ideation and execution phases. 
• Ensure all events are executed smoothly and professionally. 

Research Support 

• Assist senior staff with research projects, including data collection and analysis. 
• Prepare research summaries, reports, and presentations for internal and external use. 
• Write summary reports for external policy briefings, conferences, forums, and symposiums. 
• Monitor and track key developments and issues pertinent to ongoing research projects, as requested. 
• Author pieces for the Center’s newsletter on current events related to domestic politics, national security, or foreign affairs.  

Social Media & Communications 

• Oversee the organization’s digital presence, including website content, social media channels, and email newsletters. 
• Create and curate engaging content that reflects the organization's mission and goals. 
• Monitor and analyze digital engagement metrics to optimize communication strategies. 

Administrative Support 

• Provide general administrative support, including scheduling meetings, managing calendars, and handling correspondence. 
• Support outreach to Congress including executing events, managing a database of contacts, recording engagement, and arranging meetings.  
• Support senior staff with additional tasks as needed. 

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required. 
• Excellent organizational skills with an attention to detail. 
• Ability to multitask, juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines in a team environment. 
• Must be a positive self-starter who brings energy and enthusiasm and the ability to work with a broad range of people within and outside the Center. 
• Exceptional written and verbal communications skills. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills. 
• Strong work ethic and interpersonal skills. 
• One to two years of professional experience providing programmatic and/or administrative support. Entry-level candidates with exceptional qualifications will also be considered. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Familiarity with digital communication tools and platforms (e.g., Constant Contact, Squarespace, Canva, social media). 
• Degree in political science, international relations, history, or other social science preferred.  

Benefits

• Salary Range: $48,000-$53,000 
• Competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement benefits.