Temporary Project Assistant: Elections and Political Processes

Candidates must be legally eligible and authorized to work in the U.S. NDI does not provide sponsorship.

Job Description

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) is currently seeking a diligent, organized, and enthusiastic recent graduate or current graduate student with strong communication skills and demonstrated interest in elections and democratic transitions to assist NDI’s Elections and Political Processes Team. The Elections Team is responsible for advising and assisting NDI’s regional teams in implementing election-related programs around the world, including providing assistance to civil society partners. The temporary project assistant will gain an enhanced understanding of how elections present challenges and opportunities for promoting peaceful and open political competition, and how citizens can better oversee and participate in political affairs. In addition, the temporary project assistant will be encouraged to attend relevant lectures, discussion sessions and other events around Washington, D.C., and will have the opportunity to collaborate with NDI staff working on areas that may be of particular interest. The temporary project assistant will work primarily with the Program Associate and Program Officer of the Election and Political Processes team based in our Washington, D.C. office. The anticipated start date for this position is early October 2021.

Primary Responsibilities

Track political and electoral developments in specific countries in Africa, Asia, Europe/Eurasia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East. relevant to principles for inclusive, credible, and peaceful election processes;

Respond to requests for information on election-related issues and NDI’s election programs;

Coordinate online outreach and communications for the Elections team and a global network of civil society activists;

Update and maintain resource materials;

Assist in the organization of travel, meetings and special events;

Conduct research projects on specific election-related issues;

Attend and report on meetings, briefings and events;

Assist with administrative tasks such as scanning, photocopying and filing; and

Update and maintain databases of NDI election programs and consultants.

Required Skills & Experience

Bachelor’s degree or current graduate student in international affairs, political science or a related field;

Demonstrated interest in international issues related to democratic transitions and the role of elections in promoting inclusive and equitable democratic reform;

Experience with event planning and managing logistics strongly desirable;

Strong oral and written communication skills;

Fluency in oral and written English; additional language skills desirable, particularly French, Arabic, Russian, or Spanish;

Experience with social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter, strongly preferred;

Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and Google applications;

Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously;

Ability to work independently and with others in a fast-paced environment; and

Weekday availability of 40 hours per week for at least 3 months.

Comments

Candidates must be legally eligible and authorized to work in the U.S. NDI does not provide sponsorship.

As a result of COVID19, this position will start in a remote capacity. However, when the office re-opens, this position will be based in our Washington, DC office and the expectation is that you would be based locally by October 2021 to fulfill this obligation. NDI does not cover relocation costs for this position.

NDI welcomes and supports a diverse, inclusive work environment. As such, our commitment is to promote equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all applicants seeking employment and NDI employees. NDI makes employment decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, personal appearance, military status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, political affiliation, educational status, unemployment status, place of residence or business, source of income, or reproductive health decision making. Additionally, harassment or discrimination based on these characteristics will not be tolerated at NDI. To perform the essential functions of this position, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities and qualified individuals who have limitations due to pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical-related condition.

To apply for this position, please visit the NDI website at: www.ndi.org/careers

Job Location

Washington, D.C., U.S.

Position Type

Full-Time/Regular