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 (EEP)

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 is a core member of the Energy & Environment Program team, providing high-level administrative and executive support to senior members of the team. 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 Executive Director. 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.

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.

HOW TO APPLY

Instead of a cover letter, please write no more than 1 page on the following two prompts:

• Share an example where you played a key role in helping a group succeed—whether through leadership, coordination, or supporting others.
• Share an example of a moment when you went above the expectations to ensure success. What motivated you, and what was the outcome?

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.

The Aspen Institute welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, including the interview process. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please email hrsupport@aspeninstitute.org or call 202-736-2127 in advance of your visit. Requests for ASL or CART services should be made at least two weeks in advance when possible. We will make every effort to fulfill requests, subject to availability.