Program Assistant, Latin America Women’s Equality Program

Position:          Program Assistant, Latin America Women’s Equality Program

Reports to:      Program Officer, Women’s Equality Program

Location:         Washington, D.C.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Wyss Foundation is a private, charitable foundation dedicated to supporting innovative, lasting solutions that improve lives, empower communities, and strengthen connections to the land.  The Wyss Foundation’s philanthropy supports projects in areas from conservation and education to economic opportunity and social justice.  Each philanthropic investment seeks to encourage new ideas and new solutions that expand the reach of human possibility and compassion.

The Program Assistant will provide general support to the Women’s Equality Program, with an emphasis on the Program’s efforts in Latin America.  S/he will report to the Program Officer, Women’s Equality Program, and will work collaboratively with all Foundation staff.  The day-to-day work will be carried out under supervision and may involve limited travel. The Wyss Foundation currently has a hybrid work environment, with in-person work constituting the majority.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Program Support
  • Perform independent research on policy issues, government programs, social and economic data, and other topics relevant to Foundation programs;
  • Compile data and summary charts and spreadsheets;
  • Draft research reports, summary memos, strategy papers and other written products as needed.
• Grant support
  • Assist with the preparation and review of financials, budgets, and work plans, and monitor spending;
  • Review grant proposals and grant reports as requested to ensure documentation is complete;
  • Draft/edit routine correspondence and memoranda, send standard letters to grant applicants, ensure grant documentation, supporting documentation and docket memos are timely and in proper order;
  • Conduct evaluations of current and potential grantees;
  • Attend and help organize meetings of grantees as needed.
• Administrative Support
  • Coordinate with grants management as directed to include: input data into grants tracking software system, produce reports, process and track contracts and grant payment requests for program initiatives, and follow up with grantees on overdue reports;
  • Assist in all office administrative tasks to include: logistical aspects of Board meetings, Foundation events and workshops; preparation of Board Books and materials; organizing phone or video links; planning conference events;
  • Maintain and update working files and databases as necessary.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university.  NGO or foundation experience/interest preferred.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• Ability to communicate in written and spoken Spanish;
• Excellent written, grammar and proofreading skills; verbal, organizational, analytical and interpersonal skills;
• Strong computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Office and ability to learn new software quickly;
• Willing to accept changes in priorities and meet deadlines;
• Sound  listening and communication skills;
• Show discretion and ability to handle confidential issues;
• High level of self-motivation and at ease working independently when necessary;
• Poised, works well under pressure and attentive to detail;
• Flexibility and willingness to work simultaneously on a wide range of tasks and projects and ability to prioritize tasks;
• Ability to work as part of a team;
• Pleasant attitude, self-motivated, service-oriented approach.

The starting salary for this position will be $50,000.  The Wyss Foundation also provides a generous benefits package.

To apply for this position, please send a resume and cover letter with the subject line “LAST NAME – Program Assistant, Latin America Women’s Equality Program” to the Human Resources Department at HR@wyssfoundation.org  (no phone calls please).

The Wyss Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.