Job Title: Program Operations Assistant

Location: Lawrenceburg, IN

Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Compensation: $36,000 annually (paid semi-monthly)

Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, flexible; some evenings and weekends required

The Archaeological Research Institute is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Program Operations Assistant to join our team. This role is ideal for someone early in their career who is looking to grow within a mission-driven organization while gaining hands-on experience in business operations and program coordination.

You’ll work directly alongside a senior business professional, learning advanced business and organizational practices while playing a critical role in keeping programs running smoothly. This is more than an admin job—it’s an opportunity to develop your skills, expand your impact, and contribute meaningfully to projects that make a difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day administrative support to a senior business professional
• Assist in coordinating program activities, timelines, and resources across multiple projects
• Track key program milestones, deliverables, and schedules
• Prepare and distribute reports, presentations, and documentation
• Organize and facilitate meetings, including agendas and minutes
• Support internal and external program communications
• Track program budgets and manage expenses
• Liaise with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment and progress
• Maintain program documentation and support knowledge management efforts
• Assist with data collection, analysis, and performance reporting
• Manage administrative tasks including calendar coordination and travel logistics

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; additional education or certifications are a plus
• 1–3 years of office or administrative experience
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and take initiative
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel and PowerPoint)
• Excellent organization, time management, and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Positive, professional attitude and eagerness to grow
• Strong references from previous employers, mentors, or educators

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Interest or background in program management or business operations
• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)
• Experience working with cross-functional teams or multiple stakeholders
• Understanding of basic budget tracking and reporting
• Discretion in handling confidential information
• Flexibility to shift priorities and meet evolving deadlines

Who You Are

• Strong desire to grow professionally and expand their skillset
• Excited to work side-by-side with a business leader and learn from real-time experience
• Take initiative, ask thoughtful questions, and seek ways to improve processes
• Thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments
• Committed to making a meaningful contribution through your work

Benefits:

• Health insurance (available after 30 days)
• Simple IRA with up to 3% employer match (after 30 days)
• 20 paid vacation days (after 6 months)
• 5 paid sick days
• 5 paid personal days

To Apply

Please email [email protected] and submit:

• Your resume
• A cover letter addressing relevant work experience and how it prepared you for this role, why you’re excited to work closely with and learn from a business professional, and specific examples of your eagerness to learn and grow in past roles or educational experiences
• 2–3 professional references who can speak to your work ethic and learning ability

The Archaeological Research Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you’re passionate, motivated, and ready to grow—we’d love to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person