Operations Coordinator

Brennan Center for Justice•Washington, DC

34d•$60,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that seeks to improve the systems of democracy and justice in the United States. We work to hold our political institutions and laws accountable to the twin American ideals of democracy and equal justice for all. The Brennan Center’s work ranges from voting rights to campaign finance reform, from ending mass incarceration to preserving constitutional protections in national security policies. Part think tank, part advocacy group, part cutting-edge communications hub, we start with rigorous research. We craft innovative policies. And we fight for them — in Congress and the states, in the courts, and in the court of public opinion. Position Overview: The Brennan Center seeks an individual with excellent coordination and people skills to join our Washington, D.C. Office. Reporting to the Vice President of our Washington D.C. Office, this role serves as the first administrative point of contact. Key responsibilities include managing the office’s front desk along with public spaces and coordinating events hosted by multiple programs at the Brennan Center. The ideal candidate is exceedingly organized, outgoing, communicative, and adaptable, with the ability to engage with Brennan Center staff while also working with a variety of stakeholders (including VIPs) to ensure successful external-facing events. Note: This position is in-office 5 days/week and is based at our Washington D.C. Office. This role may occasionally require supporting early morning or evening events.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree, or equivalent mix of education and pertinent experience
1–3 years of experience in receptionist, administrative, or event support roles
Strong organizational and multitasking skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment
Customer service-oriented mindset with strong attention to detail

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting events or working with event planners
Familiarity with scheduling tools and event management software
Ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to changing needs

Responsibilities

Greet and assist visitors, and staff in a warm, professional manner
Answer, screen, and direct incoming calls and emails
Serve as a primary point of contact for general office inquiries, providing timely, accurate information
Maintain visitor logs, issue guest access, and coordinate with building security
Assign visitors to offices or workspace areas (e.g., offices or cubicles)
Maintain a clean, organized, and presentable reception area and common spaces
Support a “clean desk” office environment by ensuring shared spaces remain clutter-free and functional
Ensure daily functionality and readiness of reception area and kitchen.
Load/unload dishwasher and ensure dishes and kitchenware are properly stored
Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, including restocking snacks, beverages, and supplies
Identify and proactively address issues related to cleanliness, organization, or functionality of the office
Assist in planning and executing on-site events across multiple programs and for the office
Coordinate logistics such as venue setup, catering, materials, and technology needs (with support from IT team)
Track event timelines, deliverables, and task lists to ensure deadlines are met
Support day-of event operations, including registration, guest coordination, and troubleshooting (collaborating with the Administration & Projects Manager)
Maintain event documentation, attendance records, and post-event evaluations
Work closely with program teams to understand event goals and requirements
Communicate effectively with vendors, partners, and stakeholders
Provide updates and status reports to the Vice President and Administration & Projects Manager
Support cross-functional initiatives and administrative projects as needed