General Description

Professional work at the level of a Program Coordinator requires demonstrated competence in research, analysis, and program planning.  A Program Coordinator handles a diverse range of tasks on a project requiring a command of a specialized field.  Frequently, the work requires the employee to make presentations to other groups and to represent NCSL in the assigned area.  Work is performed somewhat independently under the direction of more senior staff within established program guidelines or project specifications.  Major work products, which may include writing grant proposals, compiling research and budget information for proposals or project reports, designing programs, drafting schedules for study tours, are reviewed by more senior professionals or program managers/directors for quality, policy considerations, form, and substance.  The Program Coordinator position requires a well-organized and detail-oriented individual with ability to multi-task and work independently.

Responsibilities and Expectations

Typical duties include many but not necessarily all of the following.  This position will support NCSL’s International Programs Department.

• Research and Analysis
• Collects information, analyzes data, interprets and identifies legislative policy or program implications, describes options, and suggests recommendations.
• Assists in organizing research projects including developing surveys, developing grant proposals or fundraising initiatives.
• Independently conducts integrative research projects across related subjects that require expertise in legislative activities or practices, governance issues, international affairs, and U.S. government foreign policy.

Writing and Information Dissemination

• Conveys detailed and complex information determining the most effective format and using a variety of methods, e.g. verbal presentations, publications, technical assistance workshops, videotapes, letters, memos, newsletters, and articles.
• Writes clearly and concisely for a variety of purposes including project reports or deliverables, proposals, and instructional presentations.

Meetings, Seminars and Technical Assistance

• Assists in planning, organizing and conducting technical assistance programs, workshops, and smaller seminars, covering multiple topics or analyzing complex issues.
• Makes substantive presentations to legislators, legislative staff, or international delegates requiring knowledge of related topics and the ability to explain complex information and respond to questions.

Organizational Support

• Develops, plans, and coordinates work with NCSL committees, task forces, staff sections, or subcommittees as appropriate and maintains effective relations with key legislators and legislative staff involved.
• Identifies opportunities for new projects in assigned subject areas, develops concept papers, and writes grant applications/proposals.
• Represents NCSL services and activities before NCSL constituencies, international delegates, and other groups.

Minimum Qualifications Required

• Bachelor's degree plus three years of relevant and progressive work experience or a Master’s degree, particularly in international affairs, plus at least one year of relevant work experience.  The following work experience or some equivalent combination is preferred: at least one year of professional experience with NCSL or with a state legislature or government, professional international experience.  Subject-specific knowledge or experience may be required. 
• Skill and competence in a variety of written and oral communications.
• Skill and competence with computers and software, e.g. Windows 95/98 (or newer), Microsoft Word for Windows and Excel, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft PowerPoint, World Wide Web for research and information dissemination needed.
• Competence in the interpersonal skills needed to work effectively with legislators, legislative staff, funders, and international delegates.
• Skill and competence in working independently and under pressure on multiple projects or tasks.
• Skill, competence, and proficiency in a foreign language, French or Spanish in particular, desirable.
• The ability to coordinate and lead others.

Closing Date:  May 15, 2008