Program Coordinator/Research Assistant - Missile Defense Project

Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 55,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is seeking a Program Coordinator / Research Assistant to support the Missile Defense Project. This full-time role involves administrative support, research assistance, and event coordination. Candidates should be adaptable and detail-oriented, thriving in a fast-paced environment. The position requires a bachelor's degree and strong communication skills. Benefits include medical insurance, retirement plans, and paid holidays.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Retirement plan (403(b))

Tuition Assistance

Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts

Military Leave

12 Paid Holidays

Sick and Vacation Leave

Qualifications

• Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale from an accredited institution.
• Interest in missile defense, long-range strike, or strategic forces.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate logistics for program events and track project activities.
• Support research efforts and contribute to writing on missile defense.

Skills

Communication

Attention to Detail

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Canva

Salesforce

Pardot

Adaptive

Job description

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 decisionmakers 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 200 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

The CSIS Missile Defense Project (MDP) is seeking a program coordinator / research assistant (PC/RA) to provide administrative program support and assist in providing analysis on missile defense, long-range strike, and related strategic issues. The project develops objective commentary, analysis, and multimedia research, and hosts related events. This full-time position supports all aspects of the project’s activities. Candidates should be flexible and enjoy a variety of analytic and logistical tasks due to the fast-paced work environment.

The minimum annual salary is $55,000 - $58,000, commensurate with experience and expertise.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Office Administration & Management (70%)
   • Coordinate logistics for program events such as meetings, briefings, roundtables, public events, and conferences.
   • Track and record project activities for reporting purposes.
   • Monitor financial transactions related to the project, including revenue and expenses.
   • Manage external communications, including invitations and outreach for events, newsletters, and publications.
   • Assist in conceptualizing new project ideas.
   • Perform other administrative tasks as needed.
2. Research, Writing, & Editing (30%)
   • Support research efforts and contribute to writing on missile defense, long-range strike, and emerging military technologies.
   • Assist in maintaining the project’s microsite, MissileThreat.CSIS.org, including updating profiles and databases.
   • Help with data collection, management, and visualization.
   • Provide copyediting support for publications.

Knowledge, Education, and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale from an accredited U.S. or equivalent non-U.S. institution.
• Strong communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Interest in missile defense, long-range strike, or strategic forces.
• Experience with graphic design or software like Canva is a plus.
• Experience with Salesforce, Pardot, Adaptive, or other budget software is a plus.

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions

This position is based at our Washington DC headquarters, requiring in-office presence 3+ days per week. The physical demands are typical of an office environment, with accommodations available for individuals with disabilities. The work environment is usually moderate noise level.

Qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status. CSIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Our Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
• Retirement plan (403(b))
• Tuition Assistance
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Military Leave
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Sick and Vacation Leave

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resumé, cover letter, and college transcript to https://csis.org/careers.

Required Skills and Experience