Operations & Community Engagement Coordinator, The Project on Workforce

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Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Project on Workforce seeks a highly organized, collaborative, and proactive Operations & Community Coordinator to support the Project’s day-to-day operations and foster engagement across its network of researchers, students, practitioners, alumni, and advisors. The Coordinator will manage core administrative and event logistics; coordinate selected research projects; and support student, alumni, and partner engagement. This position offers an opportunity to work closely with leaders addressing some of the nation’s most pressing education and workforce challenges. 

Operations, Administration & Events (50%)

• Support financial administration, including expense tracking, reimbursements, purchasing, and preparation of financial reports.
• Coordinate vendor relationships, purchasing, and contracts, in collaboration with Project leadership and Harvard administrative offices.
• Maintain organizational systems and processes that support the Project's research and engagement activities.
• Coordinate convenings, meetings, and events that bring together Project on Workforce partners and stakeholders.
• Support scheduling and other administrative activities for Project leadership, as needed. 

Project Coordination (25%) 

• Coordinate one to two research projects, including managing timelines, scheduling meetings, coordinating research assistants, and tracking project deliverables. 

Student & Community Engagement (25%)

• Coordinate recruitment, onboarding, and engagement of research assistants and student fellows.
• Support the Project's Cross-Harvard Study Group and other student programming that connects students with researchers and practitioners.
• Support outreach to Project alumni and strengthen the network of former research assistants, fellows, and study group members.
• Assist with community communications, outreach, and other engagement initiatives. 

Based at the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government at the Harvard Kennedy School, the Project on Workforce is an interdisciplinary initiative spanning the Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard Business School's Managing the Future of Work project, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The Project produces rigorous research and actionable insights at the intersection of education, labor markets, and economic mobility, with the goal of creating stronger pathways between learning and work. Through research, policy engagement, strategic partnerships, and convenings, the Project brings together leaders across and beyond Harvard to address the nation's workforce challenges and expand opportunity for workers and learners. 

Basic Qualifications:

At least 1 year of relevant professional experience. 

A complete application must include a cover letter.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated initiative, judgment, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to the Project on Workforce's mission of expanding economic opportunity through research and practice.
• Experience coordinating events, projects, or administrative processes is preferred.
• Interest in education, workforce development, public policy, or research is preferred. 
• Bachelor's degree is preferred.

• Appointment End Date: Fully benefits-eligible one year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information: This is a hybrid position based on our campus in Cambridge, MA, required to work 1-3 days/week on campus.
• Application instructions: A complete application must include a cover letter.
   

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.