Program Assistant (Seminars & Journalism)

Company: East-West Center
Location: Honolulu
Posted on: February 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $56,664.45 The East-West Center (EWC) promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options. The Centers 21-acre Honolulu campus, adjacent to the University of Hawaii at Mnoa, includes conference facilities, three residence halls, and an office building that houses research, program, and administrative activities. The Center also has an office in Washington, D.C., that provides accessibility to US, regional government stakeholders, and program partners with innovative training, analytical and dialogue exchange, and public diplomacy products to meet US policy priorities and expressed needs in the Indo-Pacific region. Our Seminars & Journalism team is currently seeking a Program Assistant who can provide exceptional administrative and operations support. This positionperforms various administrative and fiscal duties that support the production and execution of the events and activities facilitated by the program annually. The preferred candidate will demonstrate sound organizational skills and the possess the ability to coordinate work in an effective and collaborative manner to ensure team deliverables and outcomes are routinely met. MAJOR DUTIES: Assists with, plans, and coordinates program activities including researching potential speakers; contacting and corresponding with speakers and experts to confirm sessions; and compiling and drafting biographical summaries of speakers and experts. Assists in drafting programmatic budgets; maintaining programmatic partnerships; and drafting/editing speaker honorariums, partnership agreements, and consultant contracts, as required. Manages the application process, which includes the preparation of participation application materials as well as the distribution, intake and organization of all program materials such as invitation letters, Center and program requirements, and participant biographies. Receives and acknowledges applications and accompanying documents and conducts follow-up communication with applicants; and assembles application packets for distribution to selection committees. Assists participants during their programmatic activities, including serving as an escort to site visits as needed. Provides administrative and fiscal support service for Seminars and Journalism staff including answering email and phone correspondence; compiling and drafting BOG reports and Seminars and Journalism impact reports; and assisting preparation of budget documents. Creates/finalizes travel requests, travel orders, travel completion, travel completion reports, purchases and other documentation for Seminars and Journalism staff. Also prepares fiscal documents in accordance with current policies and procedures for program activities. Oversees development, editing, updating and maintaining of Seminars and Journalism webpages and sharing web-related concerns with the wider Center. Creates and manages program-specific websites housed offsite. Manages the database of contact information, using Raisers Edge and excel files, for institutional partners, participants, alumni, applicants, interested parties, etc. and ensures the data is current and accurate using Raisers Edge and excel files. Gathers information, creates/drafts copy and design, and edits and assists with the layout for program brochures, promotional and other program materials. Coordinates and compiles information for various reports and projects such as the annual infographics sheet and PowerPoint presentations. Handles mass mailings through mass marketing service providers such as Mail Chimp and creates/drafts/manages social media posts and blogsites using content provided by program coordinators. Serves as a work leader for Seminars and Journalism student assistants: manages, assigns and oversees student work; and trains students. Assists in student hiring process. Supervises student assistants when program secretary is absent. Drafts thank you cards, invitations, newsletters, brochures and other documentation as required for Seminars and Journalism events and activities. Retrieves and manipulates data (into charts, graphs, tables, PowerPoint or other formats) for presentation in program brochures, news releases, reports, applications and publications. This list of essential functions is not exhaustive and may be supplemented on an occasional basis in accordance with the requirements of the job. SUPERVISION: This position works under the general supervision of the Media Program Manager. The incumbent is expected to carry out policies, programs, and procedures independently. The employee keeps the supervisor informed of progress, anticipated problems, or conflicts. Work is reviewed as it progresses for timeliness, effectiveness, and completeness in meeting objectives. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Education & Experience At least five (5) years of relevant work experience with progressively increasing responsibilities that demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position; or a combination of post-high school education, training, and relevant work experiences which totals five (5) years. Communication Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to effectively communicate and interact with people of diverse backgrounds and abilities in person, on the phone and in digital environments. Demonstrated Ability to organize, prioritize and coordinate work involving a wide variety of tasks; to take initiative and work independently and cooperatively in following through on assignments; to assume responsibility for whole areas of work and integrate information from relevant sources; to gather and/or prepare background materials; to work effectively and deal pleasantly and helpfully with people of diverse cultural backgrounds; to work under the pressure of deadlines and competing demands; to acquire and maintain knowledge of and appropriately apply various policies and procedures; to establish and maintain accurate files and records; to adapt to changes and exercise good judgment in dealing with a variety of situations; to perform effectively in a non-routine work environment; to appropriately handle confidential information; to make arithmetic computations and record figures accurately; to handle detail-oriented assignments with accuracy, to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and to function effectively as a work leader. Knowledge of office practices and procedures, particularly as they apply to project management and event planning computer program use, database software, office machine usage, and other related administrative best practices; of correct English grammar, punctuation, spelling, and word usage; proficiency in computer programs (such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat Professional and other equivalent applications) and virtual meeting platforms (e.g. Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams). Physical Requirements Able to walk up and down stairways, use a ladder, carry supplies and equipment, walk between conference rooms/floors, and move furniture and supplies up to 40 pounds; Sit, walk or stand for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, operate standard office equipment, and use a phone; see and read a computer screen and printed matter with or without vision aids; read and understand rules and policies, labels, and instructions; and to hear, speak and understand speech at normal levels and on the telephone. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Familiarity with the use of HTML language. Knowledge about US-Indo Pacific relations and experience/travel in the region. Studies include international relations particularly connected to the Indo-Pacific region. SALARY AND BENEFITS OF WORKING AT THE EAST-WEST CENTER You will have the opportunity to join an organization that values its employees and provides a supportive work environment. Here are some of the benefits you can expect: Competitive Salary and Benefits -The annual salary for this position starts at $56,664.45 per year with an attractive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement savings with a very generous company match, and paid time off. Career Growth Opportunities - We believe in investing in our employees and providing opportunities for career growth and development. You will have the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities and advance your career within our organization. Supportive Work Environment - We believe in fostering a supportive work environment where our employees feel valued and appreciated. We encourage open communication and collaboration and provide the tools and resources our employees need to succeed. HOW TO APPLY: If you're interested in applying for the role, submit an electronic application at APPLY FOR THIS JOB NOW so that you can be immediately considered. Here are some tips to help you prepare you for our job application process: Tailor Your Resume and Write a Compelling Cover Letter Make sure that your resume is tailored to the specific requirements of the job. Highlight your relevant experience and skills and provide examples of how you have demonstrated leadership in your previous roles. Your cover letter should be tailored to the job and provide a clear and concise summary of your qualifications and experience. Explain why you are interested in the role and how you can contribute to our team. Our initial assessment will be based on the information you submit in your application. Be Prepared for the Interview If you are invited for an interview, make sure that you are well prepared. Research our company and its role and be prepared to answer questions about your experience and qualifications. Provide Three Professional References Ensure that your references can attest to your skills, work ethic, and integrity. What these people reveal about you both in terms of what they do and dont say can make a difference in whether youll be hired. So, its extremely important that you choose wisely when deciding who to use as a reference. The East-West Center isa premier institution in the Indo-Pacific to convene, develop, and equip a network of leaders to solve challenges of common concern. Founded in 1960, the Center has been a leader in promoting understanding and cooperation between the United States and the Indo-Pacific region through its innovative programs and research initiatives. The Center is dedicated to creating respectful and inclusive programming that values innovation and growth through collaborations across the organization and the region. With its cutting-edge research, educational programs, and vibrant community, the East-West Center has become a hub of academic excellence and cultural exchange. Whether you are a student, researcher, or simply someone interested in making a difference for peoples and communities throughout Asia, the Pacific and the US, the East-West Center is the perfect place to explore and discover new perspectives. As required under Title IX, the East-West Center does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the educational programs or activities it operates, including admissions and employment. This is a full-time, in-person role that requires the desired candidate to physically reside in Oahu, Hawaii.

Keywords: East-West Center, Honolulu , Program Assistant (Seminars & Journalism), Administration, Clerical , Honolulu, Hawaii