Program Coordinator / Research Assistant - Americas Program

Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) • Washington, DC

22h • Hybrid

About The Position

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 decision makers 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 Americas Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) addresses the most urgent challenges and opportunities shaping the Western Hemisphere. Our work examines issues such as democratic resilience, citizen security, economic competitiveness, regional integration, economic security, and the evolving role of Latin America and the Caribbean in global affairs. Through in-depth research, innovative convenings, and policy engagement, the program generates insights and recommendations that inform decisionmakers and strengthen cooperation across the region. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) seeks a highly motivated Program Coordinator/Research Assistant (PC/RA) to support the Americas Program in a full-time capacity. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, organized, and proactive professional with strong research, writing, and administrative skills who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative policy environment. The successful candidate will support the Americas Program’s research, writing, events, outreach, and day-to-day operations. This role is especially well suited to a candidate with demonstrated interest in Western Hemisphere affairs, excellent written communication skills, Spanish-language fluency, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines with professionalism and attention to detail.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required in international affairs, political science, Latin American studies, economics, public policy, history, or a related field.
• Strong academic record and demonstrated interest in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Professional fluency in Spanish required; Portuguese is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing abilities.
• Strong editing skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to synthesize complex information clearly, accurately, and concisely for different audiences.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and contribute effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
• Experience supporting event planning and execution, including identifying and tracking participants, preparing and sending invitations, coordinating pre-event logistics, supporting on-site event needs, and assisting with post-event follow-up.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; familiarity with digital communications, CRM, project management, and design platforms such as Pardot, Canva, Salesforce, and Asana preferred.
• Previous internship or professional experience in a think tank, research institution, government office, nonprofit organization, newsroom, or similar setting preferred.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Portuguese is a plus.
• Familiarity with digital communications, CRM, project management, and design platforms such as Pardot, Canva, Salesforce, and Asana preferred.
• Previous internship or professional experience in a think tank, research institution, government office, nonprofit organization, newsroom, or similar setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drafting, editing, and fact-checking Americas Program publications, newsletters, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Compiling research and data into literature reviews, summaries, backgrounders, memos, and short publications to support the program’s research portfolio.
• Coordinating public and private events, including content development, logistics, outreach, materials, and on-site support.
• Assisting with ongoing Americas Program research and projects as specified by staff.
• Monitoring political, economic, and security developments in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Supporting the program’s communications and outreach efforts, including website updates, social media platforms, newsletters, and other digital content, ensuring consistency with CSIS standards.
• Assisting with contact management, event invitations, and other forms of stakeholder outreach.
• Providing day-to-day administrative and operational support for program activities as needed.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees