Program Associate

American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS)

. Support all administrative aspects of the Mellon Mays Programs within the IDEA unit .

Posted 9/18/2026full-timeNew York City • New York • United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $55,000 - $60,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills while managing program activities, databases, and grant processes. Proficient in project management and event planning, with a focus on collaboration and attention to detail.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Bachelor's Degree in Humanities or Social SciencesProficiency in MS Office (Word, Outlook, Excel)Experience with Databases and Event PlanningExcellent Written and Oral Communication SkillsStrong Organizational Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Database ManagementGrant Application ProcessingProject ManagementEvent PlanningData Analysis

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailInterpersonal SkillsAbility to Multi-taskCollaborationReliability

Tools & Technologies

ZoomPadletCalendlyACLS Web-based Portals

Industry Keywords

HumanitiesPhilanthropyHigher EducationProgram Management

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Support all administrative aspects of the Mellon Mays Programs within the IDEA unit
Plan and organize activities connected with the programs
Maintain and analyze program information and data
Research and develop new programming
Maintain program-related database records and ACLS web-based portals
Manage the program calendar and track deadlines using project management software
Process grant applications, track and analyze grant spending, and process payments
Create and maintain records of convenings, including drafting and circulating meeting summaries and minutes
Monitor the program inbox and communicate with applicants, fellows, and advisory committee members
Oversee web-based tools including Zoom, Padlet, and Calendly for online workshops and meetings
Oversee annual updates and day-to-day functionality of the application system, including portal-database interfaces and data imports
Create and refine award materials and recipient forms
Assist with logistics for workshops and meetings and liaise with vendors
Coordinate activities with other ACLS departments on technical projects and outreach
Produce convening materials, proofread and contribute to website materials, and compile information for funder reports and grant applications
Serve as a first point of contact for program partners and current and past fellows
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in a field of the humanities or related social sciences
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Keen organizational skills, with strong attention to detail
Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments in a deadline-driven environment
Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively
Effective interpersonal skills
Willingness to try new tasks and learn skills on the job
Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Word, Outlook and Excel
Reliability, humility, and a willingness to pitch in when necessary
Experience with databases and event planning preferred
An interest in the humanities, philanthropy, and higher education
Must be willing and able to travel to multi-day events within the US 2-3 times a year, and to staff infrequent after-hour and weekend events
Some experience in an administrative capacity or office environment preferred
Must live within commuting distance of New York City

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Accidental death and disability insurance
Generous time off benefits
Retirement savings plan, including employer contributions
Professional development support
Hybrid work schedule