Program Assistant, Freedom to Read

Pen American Center•New York, NY

1d•$55,000 - $65,000•Hybrid

About The Position

PEN America seeks a proactive, organized Program Assistant to support the Freedom to Read Program’s research, analysis, and operations in defense of the freedom to read and learn in schools. The role chiefly provides research and data support, including tracking and analyzing book bans and censorship in K–12 education and public libraries. It also supports development of research processes, resources, and reports, and provides administrative assistance to the team. The position is full-time, union-eligible, based at PEN America’s New York City headquarters, and reports to the Senior Program Manager, Freedom to Read. PEN America’s current policy requires staff to be available to report to the New York City office at least three days per week. All positions are subject to a five-month trial period and assessment. The role may require travel estimated at 10% depending on program needs.

Requirements

At least one year of experience with research, data collection, and analysis using qualitative and quantitative methods.
Understanding of and interest in contemporary debates about free expression and the freedom to read, as well as literature and/or publishing.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong attention to detail.
Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and multitask effectively.
Ability to engage professionally with stakeholders across a range of ideological perspectives.
Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Familiarity with database programs and project management tools such as Asana, or ability to learn quickly.
Ability to travel an estimated 10% of the time depending on program needs.
Commitment to PEN America’s mission of celebrating and defending free expression for all, including willingness to defend the right to engage in speech that may be offensive or discomfiting and reflects a wide range of political opinions and ideologies.
Commitment to PEN America’s advocacy and support for writers, artists, and their allies around the world, without regard to the ideology or actions of their country’s government.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with social media, strategic communications, and/or advocacy.
Experience defending free expression and/or freedom to read in educational settings.
Knowledge of and passion for literature.

Responsibilities

Identify, input, and track instances of book bans in K–12 public schools and public libraries in PEN America’s database; maintain detailed spreadsheets and complete data memos.
Validate censorship cases by reviewing school board meeting minutes and hearings, district, department, and government agency websites, public records requests, and other primary sources.
Help grow and maintain a nationwide network of public records request partners by organizing trainings, developing and updating educational resources, and sharing best practices.
Track breaking news and compile key stories for the Freedom to Read team.
Manage, track, and triage submissions to PEN America’s Book Ban Report Tool.
Handle administrative tasks, including calendar management, scheduling meetings and press availabilities, record keeping, and expense tracking.
Respond to internal data requests for public communications, including social media content and newsletters, and review communications for accuracy.
Prepare slide decks, develop one-pagers and brochures, and maintain up-to-date fact sheets to support awareness efforts.
Serve as a thought partner on the Freedom to Read team, particularly on research processes and products.
Support internal and external coordination across teams and projects.
Support and advance PEN America’s mission to safeguard free expression in the United States and abroad.
Participate in varied organizational activities, which may include committees or task forces addressing office issues, diversity and inclusion, strategy, training, or other initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.