Summary

The SSRC’s Anxieties of Democracy program invites applications for a part-time Program Assistant to help with the administration of a new grants project. This position is the equivalent of 3 days (approximately 18–22 hours) per week; a flexible schedule will be considered.

Description

The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is an independent, international, nonprofit organization devoted to the advancement of interdisciplinary research in the social sciences through a wide variety of workshops and conferences, fellowships and grants, summer training institutes, scholarly exchanges, research, and publications. For more information, please visit our website: www.ssrc.org.
The SSRC invites applications from ambitious, resourceful, well-organized enthusiasts of democracy for a part-time Program Assistant for a new grants project of the Anxieties of Democracy program. Applicants with related coursework in political science (especially pertaining to US democratic institutions), strong research and writing skills, data analysis experience, social media talents, and/or design experience are especially encouraged to apply. This assistantship offers an exciting opportunity to gain valuable research, communications, and administrative experience as part of a dynamic team operating in a high-profile network of academics, policymakers, reformers, and journalists. This position would support a new grants project in the program through administrative duties that include meeting planning, correspondence with program affiliates, helping to update the program’s website, and social media and other outreach. This position is the equivalent of 3 days (approximately 18–22 hours) per week; a flexible schedule will be considered.
Funded by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the Anxieties of Democracy program aims to “smart up” the public conversation about democracy with better social science. For more information on the Anxieties of Democracy program, please visit http://www.ssrc.org/programs/anxieties-of-democracy/

QUALIFICATIONS

 Bachelor’s degree in the social sciences. Graduate work in the social sciences preferred; coursework on democracy, especially US democracy, also preferred.
 Administrative and organizational skills, with strong attention to detail.
 Ability to multitask and prioritize daily activities to meet competing deadlines.
 Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
 Ability to take initiative and work independently and as part of a team.
 Required computer skills: MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and standard Internet applications.
 Familiarity with website design/maintenance tools such as HTML, CSS, and WordPress preferred.
 Experience with social media communications for a professional or academic audience.
 Familiarity with research fellowship/grant administration a plus.

RESPONSIBILITIES

 Support the Anxieties of Democracy Program Director with the administration of a new grants project.
 Assist in the development and maintenance of project websites, outreach materials (including semiannual e-newsletters), and social media postings.
 Work with information technology staff to develop and maintain online platforms for use in grant trainings.
 Create and maintain project data, and produce statistical analysis reports as needed.
 Provide assistance with student competition publicity and application processing.
 Organize and provide logistical support for conferences, workshops, and meetings both on- and off-site.
 Answer telephone and e-mail inquiries from prospective grant applicants.
 Serve as primary contact for grantees, including regular correspondence, document collection, and providing feedback on written research reports.
 Manage database and paper files for applicants, grantees, and contacts.
 Provide administrative support for the application review process.
 Process payment requests for grantees, vendors, and project partners.
 Assist in planning project outreach and maintaining a digital community for grantees.
 Other duties and additional responsibilities as directed, depending upon interest and capacity.

TERMS, SALARY, AND BENEFITS
Pay rate will be $18–$22 per hour (18–22 hours per week) commensurate with experience.

APPLICATION INFORMATION
Please send CV and cover letter by e-mail to applications@ssrc.org with “Anxieties of Democracy Part Time Program Assistant” in the subject line. Please indicate how you heard about this position in your cover letter. We will begin reviewing applications on February 5th, and we will continue to do so until the position is filled.
The Social Science Research Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer.