Civic Program Instructor

You're someone who loves history, government, and the political process, who has a profound interest in working with young people in our nation's capital. You're dedicated to serving others and looking to gain or refine skills in education, nonprofit work, or the realms of politics and policy. Apply today to become a Civic Program Instructor and embark on a fascinating experience of engaging youth in the political process, breaking down the barriers of polarization, and nurturing your own career and talents.

Who Are Civic Program Instructors? Civic Program Instructors are energetic individuals with a passion for government, policy, and civic participation. They work directly with high school and middle school students from all 50 states and the U.S. territories, introducing them to Washington, DC, and helping them discover their power as citizens. Some Civic Program Instructors are aspiring or experienced teachers eager to enhance their skills. Others are looking for an introduction to our nation's capital and to build a network as they pursue a career in politics, policy, or nonprofit work.

What Do Civic Program Instructors Do? You'll join a tightly knit team in Close Up's Curriculum Department that works together to serve young people of all backgrounds in experiential, multi-day civic education programs. You'll have the opportunity to:

• Lead civic education programs in Washington, DC, for diverse students from public and private schools, rural and urban communities, and all 50 states and U.S. territories.
• Guide a workshop of approximately 25 students throughout each program, leading that group in discussions, issue deliberations, simulations of government processes, and study visits to historical sites, monuments, memorials, museums, and government institutions.
• Facilitate meetings between students and elected officials, policy experts, and nonprofit leaders, building meaningful relationships along the way.
• Get to know Washington, DC, like the back of your hand, with opportunities to travel to New York City, Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Gettysburg, and other historical cities as well.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
• Work in partnership with your fellow Civic Program Instructors, developing an incredible network of colleagues who become lifelong friends.

Salary, Benefits, and Experience

• A salary (before tax) of $1,430, paid twice per month
• A $500 pre-tax signing bonus after completing three program weeks and a $1,000 pre-tax bonus after completing the contract period (January 27 through June 23, 2023)
• Generous benefits (including medical and dental insurance, no-cost life/AD&D insurance, all meals while working on program, mass transit subsidy or free garage parking, cell phone reimbursement, paid sick leave, and the opportunity to earn free graduate credit)
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
• Comprehensive training and coaching in our methodology and program logistics
• Exposure to elected officials, policy experts, and issue advocates
• An extensive network of colleagues, alumni, and leaders in politics, policy, and nonprofits
• Leadership and skill development

How Do You Apply? Applications are open for the next contract term, which runs from January 27-June 23, 2023. (At the end of the contract term, there may be an opportunity to join Close Up in a full-time/full-year role.) The application requires a resume and short responses to several questions. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so be sure to apply as soon as possible.

This is a paid, full-time position that is open to applicants who have graduated with a bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university.

About Close Up Close Up is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, civic education organization that aims to inform, inspire, and empower young people to become active participants in our democracy. We believe a strong democracy requires engagement by all citizens. Therefore, we seek to reach youth from all communities and all backgrounds, regardless of race, religion, gender, socioeconomic level, or academic standing. Since 1971, we have partnered with schools nationwide to serve nearly one million students and educators through experiential programs in our nation's capital and in local communities, virtual after-school and summer programs, professional development for educators, and curriculum and resource design.