Program Assistant, Ocean and Climate at The Aspen Institute – Washington, District of Columbia

ABOUT US

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Since its founding in 1949, the Institute has been driving change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most critical challenges facing communities in the United States and around the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners.

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM

The Aspen Institute Energy and Environment Program (EEP) is a 55-year-old program that works with people, organizations, and governments to take greater action on solving climate change. In doing so, EEP seeks to:

• Support the sustained development of a global clean energy economy and well-adapted, equitable, and inclusive communities.

• Foster spaces for collaborative dialogue and relationship building, especially diverse stakeholders. In doing so, we create unique opportunities for innovative climate solutions and ideas to be seeded, tested, and developed.

• Connect the dots between efforts, organizations, and communities to drive collaboration.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

Candidates should thoughtfully read the whole description before applying. The Program Assistant, Ocean and Climate is a core member of the Energy & Environment Program team, providing high-level administrative and executive support to senior members of the team, including the Senior Director for Ocean and Climate. Key responsibilities include managing complex calendars, preparing briefing materials, coordinating travel, and handling reimbursements. This role requires juggling multiple projects and timelines with efficiency, organization, and attention to detail in a very fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate thrives under pressure, anticipates obstacles, and finds solutions to keep things on track.

This position reports to the Senior Director for Ocean and Climate. The salary range for this position is $50,000-$55,000. This position is in the Aspen Institute’s Washington, D.C. office and is expected to work from the office at least 40% of the time. Please note that this is a limited term position that is dependent on grant funding. Currently the existing funding runs through the end of December 2026.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Provides high-level administrative support, including managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and coordinating travel for senior staff.

• Manages correspondence including sorting and drafting emails, memos, and meeting/event materials.

• Prepares daily briefing materials and tracks follow-up items.

• Triages internal and external requests, ensuring timely, organized follow-up on key priorities.

• Maintains confidentiality and demonstrates discretion in handling sensitive materials and conversations.

• Keeps track of monthly expenses and receipts.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO THRIVE

• H.S. Diploma and 1-2 years experience•

• Exceptional attention to detail with consistent habits of double-checking work for accuracy and demonstrated strength in planning, organizing, and following through on follow-ups.•

• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and master workflow details.

• Strong time management skills; excels at prioritizing and working independently or within small teams.

• Quick to adapt to evolving priorities, modify things on the fly, and learn new subject matter.

• A “Yes, and” attitude.

• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave.

The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation regarding the accessibility of our website, a modification or adjustment of the job application or interview process due to a disability, contact HRSupport@aspeninstitute.org or call (202) 736-5800.