Senior Program Assistant - National Academy of Engineering

Senior Program Assistant – Frontiers of Engineering Program

The Senior Program Assistant supports the Grainger Foundation Frontiers of Engineering (FOE) Program, a signature activity of the National Academies of Engineering. The FOE portfolio includes one U.S. and four international programs in Germany, Japan, China, and the EU. The program convenes early‑career engineers from industry, academia, and government to discuss pioneering technical work and frontier research, promoting cross‑disciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

• Administrative Operations and Records Management: Perform routine and complex clerical tasks, manage records, databases, and filing systems, update correspondence, and maintain email and distribution lists.
• Meeting, Event, and Logistics Coordination: Arrange logistics for committee meetings, forums, workshops, and related activities; prepare agenda materials, briefing documents, and provide on‑site support.
• Research, Publications, and Content Support: Conduct literature searches, gather references, assist with data collection, assembly, and tabulation, edit and format reports, and coordinate publication delivery.
• Financial Processing and Compliance Support: Prepare vouchers, review and process travel expense reports in compliance with applicable policies, and perform FACA compliance tasks.
• Team Support and Development: Attend training sessions, mentor new support staff, coordinate temporary help, and supervise temporary staff as needed.
• Non‑essential Duties: Perform related duties and special projects as assigned.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to plan and support extensive meeting activities.
• Problem‑solving skills with or without supervisory consultation.
• Strong prioritization skills and flexibility to adapt to changing job demands.
• Teamwork and effective interpersonal communication with coworkers and staff in other departments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills at all levels.

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent knowledge.
• Minimum of four years of related experience.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to travel as required.
• No required licenses, certifications, or registrations.

Reports to the FOE Director. The work environment is a hybrid office/telecommute setting, requiring approximately 60% onsite presence with occasional travel to National Academies facilities and sponsor locations.

Estimated hourly compensation range: $23.04 – $28.79, plus potential overtime. The position is benefits‑eligible, offering a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, paid holidays, personal leave, transportation subsidies, and education assistance.

The National Academies are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. The institution provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and covered veterans.