Student Programs Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator

Student Programs Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator

Full‑time

About the role

Cato is seeking an Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator who is passionate about helping the next generation of leaders discover and champion the principles of liberty. In this role you will help design and execute outreach strategies that inspire students and young professionals to take part in Cato’s educational programs, equipping them to carry the ideas of liberty into their careers and communities.

This hybrid position is based in Washington, DC. The projected salary range is $50,000 – $90,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• With the director of student programs, develop an outreach strategy to drive recruitment to Cato’s educational programming and professional opportunities.
• Manage relationships with affiliate organizations, university contacts, and students.
• Coordinate and grow Cato’s student briefings program, student events, and on‑campus activities.
• Work with colleagues to support the development of engagement strategies, outreach, and other in‑person touchpoints for students and early‑career professionals.
• Attend key networking, marketing, and recruitment events to reach academic, student, professional, and community organizations.
• Track and maintain engagement records across events and partnerships.
• Travel 15% of the time to attend conferences, career fairs, academic meetings, and other relevant events.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, history, communications, business, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 1–3 years of experience in outreach, events, and external affairs roles.
• A passion for Cato’s mission and familiarity with the libertarian professional network.
• Strong knowledge of the libertarian tradition and motivation to inspire others about libertarian theory.
• Experience in roles requiring strong interpersonal, communication, and persuasive abilities.
• Experience with organizing students or youth outreach is preferred.

Skills

• Comfortable navigating conversations with diverse audiences, including students, faculty, university administrators, and professional organizations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and persuasive skills.
• Excellent time‑management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Adaptability to changing environments and ability to handle frequent changes.
• Problem‑solving skills and the ability to resolve issues timely.
• Independent work ethic combined with teamwork when needed.
• Exceptional attention to detail affecting user experience.

How To Apply

• Resume
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the mission of the Cato Institute, its educational programs, and how you would contribute to this position.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Generous vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave
• Employer‑provided life and disability insurance
• 401(k) employer match
• Transit/Parking benefits
• Pet discount plan

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.