Union of Concerned Scientists- Program Assistant for Climate & Energy program

Program Assistant
Climate & Energy Program
Washington, DC Office

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world. UCS combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices. What began as a collaboration between students and faculty members at MIT in 1969 is now an alliance of more than 300,000 citizens and scientists that includes people from all walks of life: parents and businesspeople, biologists and physicists, teachers and students.

UCS strives for a future that is free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war and a planet that supports a rich diversity of life. Our specific focus areas include global warming, renewable energy, advanced vehicle technology, nuclear power safety, nuclear weapons and related security issues, preserving the integrity of science, and sustainable agriculture.

The Position:
The Program Assistant will provide a broad range of support for the Climate & Energy Program (C&E).  The Program Assistant will provide scheduling, travel, interoffice communication, and general support for the Program Director, and will assist in the administrative, legislative, research, and outreach aspects of the C&E Program’s science and policy work.

Responsibilities:

• Provide administrative support to the C&E Program Director and other program leadership.  Tasks include arranging travel and events; tracking expenses; scheduling internal and external meetings.
• Act as interface with UCS staff for Program Director and respond to requests for information.
• Help maintain program calendar and staff’s time tracking reports.
• As needed, contribute to climate and energy research, outreach, and advocacy projects.  Tasks may include coordinating with activist or expert groups, and assisting in the preparation and distribution of program materials to Congressional staff, members of the Science Network, and other external audiences.

Basic Knowledge:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.
• Position requires considerable self-motivation and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with office and administrative support procedures, competence in word processing and spreadsheet software, and excellent email software and web research skills are needed.
• Strong organizational abilities and good written and oral communication skills are needed.
• Excellent personal relation skills are essential.
• Must be able to work both independently and in teams, and to interact professionally with senior scientists, U.S. and international policymakers and UCS colleagues in sensitive matters.

Experience:

• Position requires at least two years of relevant experience as an administrative, executive or research assistant, preferably in a non-profit environment.
• Experience with conducting web research, maintaining databases, event planning, and familiarity with the U.S. legislative system is preferred.
• On-the-job training of six months is needed to become familiar with UCS personnel, programs, and procedures.

To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “C&E Program Assistant” in the subject line. Please also add in your cover letter where you heard about the position.  Email materials by Word or PDF only. No calls. Deadline: July 29 or until filled.