Program Assistant

The National Association of Regional Councils (NARC), a nonprofit trade association and membership organization, serves as the national voice for regions by advocating for regional cooperation as the most effective way to address a variety of community planning and development opportunities and issues. NARC members work collaboratively with their cities and counties to meet their residents’ needs and promote a regional approach to planning for the future. For more information on NARC, visit our website at www.narc.org.

NARC members include regional councils, councils of governments (COGs), regional planning and development agencies, metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), economic development organizations (EDDs), rural transportation planning organizations (RTPOs), and other regional organizations.

Summary

NARC seeks a full-time Program Assistant to support the administration of professional initiatives which include producing grant deliverables, professional webinars and events, and developing content. This position requires an interest in topics related to regional governments and the ability to write about them effectively, including issues such as economic development, housing, public health, energy and environment, and transportation.

Grant Programs and Partnership Responsibilities

• Support NARC’s grant portfolio which currently spans clean energy, economic development, and electric vehicle charging.
• Work with NARC staff to facilitate the design and implementation of programs by conducting research; facilitating stakeholder participation; maintaining outreach channels; participating in monthly check-in calls, updating grant reporting databases; creating deliverables and other duties as assigned.
• Identify and respond to new grant opportunities in collaboration with NARC staff.
• Support preparation and distribution of program materials, reports, and communications.

Membership-Related Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, developing, and organizing speakers for member-facing calls, workshops, webinars, and conferences.
• Collate relevant news and write material for NARC’s two weekly newsletters, eRegions and Transportation Thursdays, which contain critical updates for members, including legislative issues and federal agency notices
• Aid in the development of policy summaries, blogs, and reports on issues relevant to regional organizations.
• Track appropriations and other legislation relevant to NARC members; attend or view Congressional hearings as needed.
• Assist as needed in the execution of NARC’s three annual conferences.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required. Degree in Government Relations, Political Science or related discipline preferred.
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, manage time, implement competing priorities, and meet deadlines
• Professional verbal and written communication skills
• Work experience in the non-profit sector or another professional environment a plus.
• General knowledge of the federal grant process and/or regional issues a plus
• Expert use of Microsoft Office Suite

Position Attributes

• Pay: $40,000-$45,000 per year, depending on experience
• Status & Classification: Regular, Full-time
• Benefits: Retirement plan, health insurance, life insurance, paid time off
• Supervisor: Program Manager
• Location: Washington, DC. Employees are required to live within commuting distance of the Union Station-adjacent office.
• Hybrid work schedule, including required time in the office.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work in an office environment. Long periods of sitting; need to be able to lift 10 pounds.
• Travel: less than 5%
• Applications considered on a rolling basis and position open until filled
• EOE employer