About International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES): Together we build democracies that deliver for all. Our independent expertise strengthens electoral institutions/systems and builds local capacity to deliver sustainable solutions. As the global leader in democracy promotion, we advance good governance and democratic rights by providing technical assistance; empowering the underrepresented to participate in the political process; and applying field-based research to improve the electoral cycle. We believe that trusted electoral institutions deliver credible elections, effective governing institutions are accountable to the people they serve, all people safely participate in civic and political life on an equal basis and technology, information and data positively serve elections and democracy. Since 1987, IFES has worked in over 145 countries – from developing to mature democracies.

PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE:
The Program Intern is an entry-level position designed to provide graduate, undergraduate, or recent graduates with experience in Europe and Eurasia programming at IFES. Students who participate in this program will develop essential skills that are not attained in the academic world and enable them to make the transition from academic to professional life. As a junior member of the team, the Program Intern will provide basic research, logistical, and administrative support to the implementation of department activities and project activities across the portfolio, focusing mainly on internal processes in the IFES Europe and Eurasia department.

Note: IFES HQ is currently open for those who wish to work from the HQ office. However, work may be conducted remotely until at least mid-January. Applications from candidates who live outside the D.C. metro area and work remotely for the duration of the internship will also be accepted. Job Responsibilities:

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct basic research on key themes and programming areas relevant to the Europe and Eurasia region, as well as to support business development efforts
• Support efforts for department internal and external communications, including content creation for social media accounts (Twitter, etc.), IFES.org website, and department and donor reports
• Contribute to departmental outreach planning, including tracking key stakeholder contacts and developing and collecting resources for external relations, including one-pagers and FAQs
• Provide logistical and administrative support on assigned projects
• Attend and report on internal and external meetings, events, and other discussions related to relevant themes and challenges in Europe and Eurasia
• Assist with program development in conjunction with the needs of the department
• Participate in IFES’ knowledge management initiatives and other thought leadership efforts
• Other duties as assigned by department and supervisor

DECISION MAKING/PROBLEM SOLVING: Has the knowledge and skills to identify solutions to routine problems. Produces useful ideas or explanations for circumstances but may need guidance or approval on execution for results.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY: None. Can assist in or have exposure to preparing routine financial reports and processing routine transaction in compliance with IFES policies and procedures.
RELATIONSHIPS: Maintains collaborative working relationship with team members and other staff within the department.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
Education: Undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled at an accredited college/university, or recently graduated no more than a year at time of application.
Experience: None. Relevant experience, familiarity, or interest in international development or related field preferred. Previous internship(s) experience with an international NGO a plus.
Related Skills or Knowledge: Excellent research and communication skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and SharePoint. Knowledge of graphic design and visualization a plus. Detailed oriented and organized. Ability to prioritize, take direction, and handle varied tasks within deadlines. Strong communicator, both verbally and in writing. Collaborative, team-oriented individual.
LANGUAGE SKILLS: English required. Regional language skills a plus.
TRAVEL: Travel will not be required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Standard office work environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.