Program Associate - Europe & Eurasia

About the Organization

The National Democratic Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to helping democratic systems grow stronger around the world. Its work centers on citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in public life.

Role Overview

The Europe and Eurasia team is seeking a Program Associate to provide both administrative and program support. This is a project-based role expected to run for about 6 months, with an approximate end date of December 31, 2026.

What You Will Do

• Take part in internal discussions and team meetings so you can stay aligned with program goals, priorities, and current progress, and apply that understanding to your work.
• Help carry out team plans and program activities by handling administrative tasks such as invoice processing, data entry, and coordination of travel and meetings, along with other assigned program support work.
• Contribute to tracking and reviewing program results using the measures and indicators defined in the work plan, including gathering and sharing relevant data and information.
• Carry out straightforward research and analysis, then present the findings in a clear, organized summary that includes the main facts, objectives, and conclusions.
• Draft or assist with proposals, work plans, presentations, communications, reports, and updates for internal and external audiences, including donors and other partners, while ensuring formatting, accuracy, spelling, grammar, and required content are all in order.
• Join strategy and planning conversations and prepare initial draft budget and planning documents for review.
• Create or apply systems and methods to monitor work progress, budget details, travel, data, and other records so information is properly captured and maintained.
• Act as a first point of contact for routine questions or information requests related to the team or program, responding when possible and routing more complex matters to the appropriate team member.
• Assist with planning and running team events involving external stakeholders, including on-site support when needed.
• Follow NDI’s values, conduct standards, policies, procedures, and performance expectations, including those tied to the position’s duties and goals.
• Join cross-functional work and initiatives when needed.
• Look for professional development opportunities that build knowledge in program and project management and strengthen awareness of current external program trends and issues.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree is preferred, especially in International Relations, Political Science, or a related discipline, although equivalent experience may also be considered. This is an entry-level program role and does not require prior full-time work experience, though internships in international development, political campaigning, legislative affairs, or a similar area are preferred. Experience working internationally in the field and/or at least one semester of study abroad is also strongly preferred.

The ideal candidate will show genuine interest in one or more of NDI’s international development areas, such as political campaigns, elections, community organizing, or technology and innovation. The role also calls for strong numerical ability, basic research and analysis skills, cultural sensitivity, good interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate clearly and professionally in writing, in person, and through digital channels.

Applicants should be detail-oriented, able to work accurately, manage multiple priorities, and stay flexible as needs change. A good candidate can work independently and as part of a team, use sound judgment with confidential information, and travel internationally if needed. Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required; familiarity with Google Suite is preferred, and basic database knowledge is an asset. Fluency in a foreign language relevant to the team’s needs is highly desirable.

Benefits and Compensation

The organization promotes a workplace grounded in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The expected hourly pay range for this position is approximately $25.39 to $30.49. Benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, a generous paid time off policy, and flexible scheduling.

Additional Information

Although remote or hybrid arrangements may be available, candidates must live in Maryland, Washington, DC, or Virginia, or be willing to relocate before starting. Applicants must already have legal authorization to work in the United States, as sponsorship is not provided. This is a union-represented role under OPEIU Local 2.

NDI is an equal opportunity employer and makes hiring decisions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Candidates with disabilities, including disabled veterans and veterans with service-connected disabilities, are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application or hiring process by contacting the Human Resources department. Accommodation requests may be made so individuals with disabilities can perform essential job functions in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act.