Program Assistant, Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program-2026
About The Position
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program provides a funded immersive summer study abroad opportunity for American college and university students to learn languages of strategic importance to the United States’ national security and economic prosperity. Participants receive the equivalent of one year of college-level language study in just eight weeks through intensive language learning and intercultural competence. Since its inception in 2006, the CLS Program has supported over 10,000 participants from all 50 U.S. states, equipping them with language and intercultural skills that set them apart in today’s global job market. Based in Washington, DC, the Program Assistant supports the work of the Director and Managers on the administration of the CLS Program. This position supports the recruitment and selection of applicants, the administration of summer language institutes, and alumni activities. Responsibilities include responding to a high volume of inquiries during application and notification periods, event planning and logistical support for events, making travel arrangements, and a variety of program logistics and clerical tasks. The position requires close attention to detail, the ability to handle multiple tasks and work independently, and a readiness to communicate with various stakeholders. The Program Assistant works closely with a dedicated team of CLS staff members and reports to the CLS Program Manager. While organizational skills and attention to detail are an important plus for any candidate, experience and interest in study abroad and international education is also important. Limited, occasional travel may be required. The position is hybrid, currently requiring two days a week in the office and for in-person events and tasks as required by supervisor.
Requirements
- A minimum of two years of relevant work experience
- Strong communication skills in spoken and written English and the ability to communicate with clarity to various stakeholders
- Strong attention to detail and organization skills
- Ability to exercise good judgement and flexibility
- Ability to work independently while contributing to an overall team effort
- Ability to summarize and present information clearly and concisely
- Demonstrated ability to manage routine office support tasks
- Ability to manage multiple priorities quickly and effectively
- General financial accountability
Nice To Haves
- BA in relevant field (e.g. language, education, international affairs, area studies, etc.)
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel
- Experience with study abroad, language learning, virtual learning, or in an international setting
- Study, work, or travel experience in a CLS host region
- Experience using tools such as SurveyMonkey and/or AirTable
Responsibilities
- Respond to a high volume of inquiries by phone and email
- Participate in program outreach activities including give occasional presentations
- Prepare and distribute mass mailings
- Work with travel agency to arrange domestic and international travel
- Manage some financial responsibilities including preparing expense reports, processing invoices and payments, issuing stipends, and managing procurement documentation
- Track document submissions
- Coordinate pre- and post-program testing schedules
- Prepare, issue, and track program evaluations and other surveys
- Order program materials and maintain inventory lists
- Provide planning and logistical support for in-person and virtual meetings and events
- Make arrangements for online webinars, meetings, and conference events
- Support the preparation of program materials and reports including assembling and formatting documents, appendices, charts, and graphs
- Store and dispose of program files in accordance with document retention policies and procedures
- Participate in hiring committees
- Provide support for CLS staff based in Washington, D.C.
- Additional duties as assigned
Benefits
- This position is eligible for healthcare benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
