Program Coordinator​/Research Assistant

JOB SUMMARY

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 275 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

JOB SUMMARY

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 275 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

The Economics and Security Technology (EST) Department advances policy research and dialogue at the intersection of economics, technology, national security, and global competitiveness. The department convenes policymakers, business leaders, academics, and subject matter experts to develop practical solutions to emerging challenges and opportunities facing the United States and its partners.

EST is seeking a Program Coordinator/Research Assistant (PCRA) to support the EST Front Office. This role requires strong skills in program management, strategic communications, event coordination, research support, and stakeholder engagement. The PCRA will play a central role in coordinating department-wide initiatives, managing executive-level administrative and operational activities, supporting strategic communications efforts, and ensuring successful execution of EST priorities.

The Ideal Candidate

• Has experience supporting senior leadership and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Has experience conducting policy research on technical, economic, technology, or national security topics.
• Has experience planning and executing events, meetings, travel logistics, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Demonstrates exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Has strong written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level writing.
• Can work independently, exercise sound judgment, and proactively identify solutions.
• Has experience coordinating cross-functional teams and department-wide initiatives.
• Has experience supporting fundraising, donor engagement, and proposal development efforts.
• Is highly proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Coordination and Front Office Operations

• Provide administrative, operational, and project management support to EST Front Office leadership.
• Manage competing priorities and support multiple department-wide initiatives simultaneously.
• Track project deliverables and deadlines and proactively inform leadership of upcoming milestones.
• Coordinate calendars, meetings, travel logistics, and stakeholder engagements as needed while ensuring timely follow-up and communication.
• Support budget tracking, expense reporting, and administrative processes.
• Coordinate and support special projects and other department-wide initiatives as assigned.
• Provide administrative and operational support for intern onboarding, departmental processes, and other Front Office priorities as assigned.
• Assist with recruiting, onboarding, training, scheduling, and coordinating interns, including supporting day-to-day administrative and operational activities.

Departmental Flagship Initiatives

• Help coordinate the department’s…