Program Assistant-Forest/Invasives

The Program Assistant helps with many aspects of UCS’s work on invasive species and on tropical forests and climate change. These include research; outreach to activists, scientists, Capitol Hill, and the public; creating and preparing materials for the website and other audiences; database management; and other special projects as needed. The Program Assistant also provides administrative support, and specific support for the scientific staff, as needed. 

Responsibilities:
• Assists in the development and distribution of calls-to-action for scientists, activists, key constituencies, allies, members and committees of Congress, and the general public. Provides logistical support for – and participates in – educational events and workshops. Creates fact sheets to distribute to congressional offices. Tracks relevant legislation and provides updates.

• Conducts research and regularly monitors a range of publications for events and news on related issues. Researches and drafts short articles for UCS’s website and publications.

• Provides general administrative assistance as needed, including: scheduling meetings; taking and disseminating minutes of meetings; maintaining contacts lists; budget tracking; making travel arrangements; and other general administrative tasks. Responds to information requests.

• Drafts fact sheets, web pages, email updates/announcements, figures and tables for publication. Ensures web site content and links are up-to-date and coordinates the posting of updates and new materials. The ability to multi-task among the two projects is essential.

Basic Knowledge and skills:
A bachelor's degree or equivalent training and experience are required.

Applicants should have demonstrated strong administrative, organizational, and multi-tasking skills and have the ability to work independently as well as be an integral part of a team. The position requires self-motivation; good research and interpersonal skills; attention to detail and commitment to accuracy; familiarity with office operations; intermediate level skills in word processing, Internet browsers, spreadsheets, and database use/maintenance. Excellent written communication skills are essential.

Experience:
A demonstrated interest in and passion for work that serves the public interest and the specific mission of UCS. A minimum of two years of relevant experience as a program, administrative, or research assistant, preferably in a non-profit setting. Understanding of various research techniques plus website and database maintenance. Education in climate science, ecology, and/or invasion biology is strongly preferred. Familiarity with advocacy, outreach, and the US legislative process, is helpful, but not required. Knowledge of Portuguese, Spanish, or French helpful, but not required

Position Details:
This position is located in our Washington, DC Office with 50% of time spent each on TFCI and Invasives.

To Apply:
Please submit your resume, along with a cover letter outlining your interest in this position, to jobs@ucsusa.org, and include Program Assistant in the subject line. This position will remain open until filled.

No phone calls, please.