Program Assistant, Inclusive Learning Group

Primary Work Address: 4000 Jones Bridge Road, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815

Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists – even stretching into film and media production.  Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between.  The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation.  As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all.  As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals across the nation.  Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open and inclusive future for science.

Summary:

HHMI is a major science philanthropy whose mission is anchored in a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. HHMI strategically invests in the national research enterprise by employing top scientists in HHMI labs and supporting the development of the next generation of scientists and science-literate citizens by empowering educators and inspiring students.

The Inclusive Learning Group (ILG) sits in the Center for the Advancement of Science Leadership and Culture. The ILG team develops and manages a diverse portfolio of science education initiatives, including fellowships to individuals and grants to individuals and institutions. The goals of these initiatives are to ensure that the culture of science and science education is centered on equity and inclusion, and to support the equitable education and training of future scientists, educators, and scientifically literate citizens.

The Program Assistant will support the ILG in all aspects of the planning, delivery, and administration of ILG initiatives. They will typically work under the direct supervision of a Program Officer or Program Coordinator. They will exhibit passion for science, scientists, and science education. The ideal candidate possesses excellent interpersonal skills enabling them to work effectively as a team member. They will leverage their organizational skills to multi-task and prioritize effectively. They can also adapt and respond to change in a constructive and effective manner.

What you can expect:

• A manager who takes a strengths-based approach and invests in her team’s growth and development.

• A team that champions a culture of care for one another and respects how each individual approaches the work.

• Opportunities to use your talents toward the critical work of equity and inclusion while being an integral member of a group that is growing, learning, and reflective.

• A competitive compensation package that includes up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement each year and a significant budget for professional development.

  

What you’ll do:

• Exhibit high levels of self-motivation, organization, attention to detail and accuracy, and a willingness to learn;

• Provide accurate and timely support including document preparation, review and distribution, and data entry;

• Help with planning, producing materials, implementing, and providing on-site support for meetings and conferences;

• Effectively work with persons in other HHMI departments, including Conference Services, Travel, Accounts Payable/Payroll, Business Solutions, People & Culture, and Communications;

• Assist in document organization, maintenance and storage of documents and other information, and internal electronic databases;

• Assist in responding to inquiries from prospective program applicants, grantees and fellows, and Institution personnel;

• Make payments to grantees and fellows through HHMI’s electronic vendor payment system, and processes travel and expense reimbursements; and

• Provide additional support of ILG activities, as requested.

If this role appeals to you, we encourage you to apply even if you are unsure about whether you meet all educational and experiential qualifications described below. 

We plan to begin reviewing applications on February 15 and will continue until the position is filled. 

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree;

• Minimum two years administrative experience in a related field;

• Excellent interpersonal skills with a style that encourages open expressions of ideas and opinions;

• Proficiency in computer-based applications, including spreadsheets, the internet, and desktop publishing;

• Excellent communication skills, including verbal and written;

• Collaborative and flexible style; ability to interact effectively with a wide range of people; ability to work independently as part of the team;

• Capacity to set priorities, simultaneously handle several tasks, and produce accurate work in a timely fashion; and

• Treatment of sensitive information with absolute confidentiality.

Application Instructions:

During the application process, you will be prompted to submit two documents:

• A cover letter that includes your experience working with students and faculty at the postsecondary level, your commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in science education, and thoughts on how HHMI can advance diversity and inclusion in science and science education (5MB max).

• A CV or resume that speaks to the position and supports the cover letter (3-page max).

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Must be able to communicate verbally and through the written word.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

Compensation Range

$23.22 (minimum) - $29.03 (midpoint) - $37.74 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Hourly

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer