Job Location: Atlantic Council Headquarters – Washington, DC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Seniority Level: Entry
Job Category: Staff

About the Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative

The Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative (SMESI) honors the legacy of Brent Scowcroft and his tireless efforts to build a new security architecture for the region. Our work in this area addresses the full range of security threats and challenges including the danger of interstate warfare, the role of terrorist groups and other nonstate actors, and the underlying security threats facing countries in the region. Through all of the Council’s Middle East programming, we work with allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

Overview of the Role

The Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative (SMESI) at the Atlantic Council is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Program Assistant to support SMESI’s distinguished fellow, Ambassador Daniel Shapiro. This role blends administrative support with substantive research responsibilities, offering a unique opportunity for early-career professionals interested in Middle East policy and US engagement in the region.

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in Middle East regional integration and security, excellent research and writing skills, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. In addition to handling scheduling, travel, and communications, the assistant will provide support for Ambassador Shapiro’s written work, public engagements, and strategic initiatives by conducting background research, preparing briefing materials, and helping develop policy content. The assistant will also help facilitate SMESI’s Track II dialogues and related programming, supporting efforts to convene experts, policymakers, and regional stakeholders for off-the-record engagement.

This position is ideal for someone seeking to grow in the policy research field while gaining direct exposure to high-level policy discussions and thought leadership on the Middle East.

This position is based in our Washington, DC, headquarters, requiring a minimum of 4 days per week in office. The Atlantic Council offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, education, and organizational equity, with offers from $53,000 to $59,000. Applications submitted by June 30, 2025, will be prioritized for consideration.

Job responsibilities

Conduct background research and draft memos on Middle East regional dynamics, with a focus on regional integration, Gulf-Israel relations, and broader security issues
Assist in doing research for op-eds, articles, and remarks for Ambassador Shapiro’s public speaking engagements
Support the development and execution of policy initiatives, convenings, and strategic projects led by Ambassador Shapiro
Prepare briefing memos and talking points for external meetings and events
Manage Ambassador Shapiro’s calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and speaking engagements
Coordinate travel logistics, including flights, accommodations, ground transportation, and itineraries
Handle administrative tasks such as processing expenses, managing correspondence, and maintaining files
Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external requests to Ambassador Shapiro, ensuring timely and professional communication
Liaise with Atlantic Council staff, external partners, and stakeholders on behalf of Ambassador Shapiro

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, Middle East studies, or a related field
1–2 years of relevant experience in policy research, program coordination, or a related environment
Demonstrated interest in Middle East affairs and US foreign policy; familiarity with regional integration and security dynamics is strongly preferred
Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills
Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
Professional demeanor, discretion, and ability to work independently
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
Experience living, studying or working in the MENA region and/or fluency in a regional language is a plus

To produce quality work and to successfully achieve our mission, we recognize the need for our staff to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a work/life balance. Our comprehensive benefits package helps to keep costs low for our staff and their families. Benefits include, but are not limited to comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, 403(b) plan, FSA options, pet insurance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and wellness benefits.

About the Program

Through our Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East, the Atlantic Council works with allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

All Atlantic Council employees are required to adhere to the Atlantic Council’s vaccination policy. All Atlantic Council employees must be fully vaccinated and boosted, and they must submit proof of both vaccination and COVID-19 booster shot on their first day of employment. Prospective or new employees may seek an exemption to the vaccination requirement through human resources and must have an approved exemption prior to the start of their employment.

Please note: The Atlantic Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of any classification protected by law, including but not limited to those protected characteristics covered by the DC Human Rights Act, including age, skin color, credit information, disability, family responsibilities, familial status, gender identity & expression, genetic information, homeless status, marital status, matriculation, national origin, personal appearance, place of residence or business, political affiliation, race, religion, seal eviction record, sex, sexual orientation, source of income, status as a victim or family member of a victim of DVSOS, or status as a victim of an intrafamily offense. The Atlantic Council is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation for all qualified individuals and bases all employment decisions on qualifications, merit, and business need. For more information, please connect with us at recruitment@atlanticcouncil.org. Eligibility to work in the United States is confirmed with E-Verify; employment at the Atlantic Council is eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

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