Associate, Program Operations and Special Events

National Association of Manufacturers

Job Description

Job Title: Associate, Program Operations and Special Events

Department: Manufacturing Leadership Council, Innovation Research Interchange

Reports To: Senior Content Director, Strategic Communities

FLSA Status: Exempt

Level: Associate

Location: DC Headquarters

Position Overview

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is seeking an Associate, Program Operations and Special Events to support the Manufacturing Leadership Council (MLC) and the Innovation Research Interchange (IRI). This role is key to delivering high-profile programs and awards that showcase innovations, digital transformation, and leadership across the manufacturing sector.

Based in Washington, DC, the Associate will coordinate logistics for in-person and virtual programs, administer awards operations, and collaborate closely with NAM’s Conference Operations Team on special events as assigned. Reporting to the Senior Content Director of Strategic Communities, you’ll engage with leaders from iconic companies such as Hershey’s, Kimberly-Clark, Sherwin-Williams, Merck, and Whirlpool.

We value in-person collaboration and the sense of community it brings. Therefore, if hired, you will be expected to be in the office at least four days per week. Our headquarters is conveniently located near Gallery Place and Metro Center.

Join the NAM and Make an Impact in the Following Ways:

A Day in Your Life

• Facilitate the production and distribution of marketing collateral for awards programs and a portfolio of in-person and virtual programs.
• Schedule and manage logistics, speaker prep calls, and speaker materials for programs and events.
• Administer the IRI and MLC awards programs, including submissions, judging, archives, and winner recognition using tools such as Award Force.
• Work with NAM’s Conference Operations Team on special events as assigned, ensuring seamless execution.
• Manage event registration, attendee communication, and reporting through Cvent.
• Collect and analyze participant and member feedback using SurveyMonkey.Maintain updated program calendars and content across digital platforms.
• Partner with the Operations Manager to enhance, document, and share processes for greater efficiency.
• Share relevant updates on IRI and MLC programs to keep internal and external stakeholders aligned.

Who You Are

• A meticulous organizer with the ability to manage complex schedules and prog
• rams.A proactive self-starter who can independently manage tasks with minimal guid
• ance.A strong communicator who keeps teams aligned and projects on t
• rack.Experienced in event/program operations with direct familiarity (or strong aptitude) in Cvent, Award Force, and SurveyMo
• nkey.Adaptable, professional under pressure, and committed to continuous learning and development.

The above list of responsibilities is representative of the position and is not intended to limit or preclude other responsibilities and tasks that may be associated with or added to the position.

We are looking for Team Players who meet the Following Criteria:

• 2–4 years of experience in program, event, or operations coordination (association or membership-based experience aplus).
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; ability to learn new tools quickly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or equivalent work experience.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Salary & Benefits

• $57,400 – $68,000 annually. This salary range represents a good faith estimate of the lowest to the highest salary for this position. The final salary offered will be based on qualifications and experience.
• Competitive annual performance-based bonus eligibility.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, disability, flexible spending accounts, SmarTrip, and 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid vacation and sick leave, complimentary on-site gym access, healthy snacks, and professional development support.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The National Association of Manufacturers is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate everyone's uniqueness here at the NAM. We provide equal opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, genetics, political affiliation or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

We also consider qualified applicants with conviction histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. At the NAM, we believe in Second Chances! The NAM is committed to offering equal employment opportunities to ALL. We only require that you have the qualifications, talent and passion to be successful in your role.

The NAM is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at humanresources@nam.org.

About NAM

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States and one of the nation’s most influential advocates for manufacturing. Join a spirited, dynamic team passionate about keeping the U.S. the world leader in manufacturing.

Get involved. Make an impact. Join the NAM team.

Learn more at www.nam.org/careers/