Program Assistant – Freedom to Read

Black Pen Recruitment

. Support research by identifying, inputting, and tracking book bans in K-12 public schools and public libraries .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeNew York City • New York • United StatesJunior💰 $55,000 - $65,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in research, data collection, and analysis, with a strong commitment to free expression and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders. Proficient in project management and communication, with a focus on maintaining accurate records and producing educational resources.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Research And Data AnalysisProject ManagementWritten And Verbal CommunicationGoogle Suite ProficiencyStakeholder Engagement

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Data CollectionData AnalysisQualitative MethodsQuantitative MethodsDatabase Management

Soft Skills

Attention To DetailOrganizational SkillsTime ManagementMultitaskingProfessional Engagement

Tools & Technologies

Google SuiteMicrosoft WordMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft PowerPointAsana

Industry Keywords

Free ExpressionBook BansPublic Records RequestsK-12 EducationLiterature

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Support research by identifying, inputting, and tracking book bans in K-12 public schools and public libraries
Maintain PEN America’s comprehensive database of book bans and detailed spreadsheets
Complete data memos
Validate censorship cases through school board minutes, hearings, district, department, and government agency websites, public records requests, and other primary sources
Grow and maintain a nationwide network of public records request partners
Organize trainings, develop and update education resources, and share best practices
Track breaking news and compile key stories for the Freedom to Read team
Manage, track, and triage submissions to PEN America’s Book Ban Report Tool
Coordinate expenses, manage calendars, schedule meetings and press availabilities, maintain records, and track expenses
Respond to internal data requests for social media, newsletters, and other public communications
Review communications for accuracy
Prepare slide decks, one-pagers, brochures, and up-to-date fact sheets
Serve as a thought partner on research processes and products
Support internal and external coordination across teams and projects
Support PEN America’s mission to safeguard free expression in the United States and abroad
Participate in committees, task forces, strategy projects, training, and other organizational initiatives as assigned

Requirements

What you’ll need

At least one year of experience with research, data collection, and analysis using qualitative and quantitative methods
Understanding of and interest in contemporary debates over free expression and the freedom to read, as well as literature and/or publishing
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail
Strong organizational, project management and time management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and multitask effectively
Ability to engage professionally with stakeholders across a range of ideological perspectives
Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Familiarity with database programs and project management tools such as Asana, or ability to learn quickly
Ability to travel an estimated 10% of the time depending on program needs
Commitment to PEN America’s mission, centered on the celebration and defense of free expression for all
Willingness to defend the right to engage in speech that may be offensive and discomfiting and that reflects a wide range of political opinions and ideologies
Commitment to PEN America’s advocacy and support for writers, artists, and their allies around the world
Complete application including a cover letter, resume, and unedited writing sample

Benefits

Comp & perks

Full benefits
Medical, dental, and vision health insurance
Paid time off
10 paid holidays
Pre-tax commuter benefits
403b retirement plan
Union-eligible position
Five-month trial period and assessment