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Project Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SOSi

Project Assistant/Administrator

Reston, VA · On-site

As our Project Assistant/Administrator, you will play a critical role in supporting our language service program for federal, state, and local law enforcement customers. You will work closely with ...

SOSi

Project Assistant/Administrator

Reston, VA

As our Project Assistant/Administrator, you will play a critical role in supporting our language service program for federal, state, and local law enforcement customers. You will work closely with ...

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How much do project assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for project assistant in Reston, VA is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Project Assistant?

A project assistant provides support to the project team and helps make sure projects get done on time and budget. They answer to the project manager or project administrator or a company director. Job duties include handling communication with everyone on the project team, creating and filing documentation, preparing reports, and serving as a liaison between management and the project team. Other responsibilities may include setting up office equipment—such as computers, printers, and webcams for online conference calls, scheduling meetings and check-ins, and managing the project calendar.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Project Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of project management principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with project management software like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello, and proficiency in MS Office Suite are typically expected. Excellent communication, teamwork, and time management skills help you support project managers and coordinate among stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure projects run smoothly, deadlines are met, and teams stay aligned on objectives.

How does a Project Assistant typically collaborate with project managers and other team members?

Project Assistants play a crucial role in supporting project managers by organizing schedules, preparing documentation, and facilitating communication among team members. They often attend meetings to take notes, track action items, and ensure deadlines are met. Regular collaboration with various departments is common, as Project Assistants help coordinate resources, gather updates, and address any logistical challenges that arise. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy multitasking and thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

What are Project Assistants?

Project Assistants are professionals who provide administrative and operational support to project managers and teams. They help coordinate project activities, manage documentation, schedule meetings, and ensure tasks are completed on time. Project Assistants often handle communication between team members, track project progress, and assist with reporting. Their role is essential for keeping projects organized and running smoothly.

What is the difference between Project Assistant vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectProject AssistantAdministrative Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer associate's degree or relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; often no specific certifications required
Work EnvironmentProject sites, offices, collaborative team settingsOffice settings, administrative departments
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, IT, consulting, engineeringCorporate offices, government agencies, nonprofits
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for support roles in projectsCompared for general office support roles

The Project Assistant and Administrative Assistant roles share similarities in supporting organizational functions, but Project Assistants focus more on supporting specific projects, often requiring knowledge of project management processes. Administrative Assistants handle broader administrative tasks across departments. Both roles are essential in various industries, but their focus and work environments differ slightly.

More about Project Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Project jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Project jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Project Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Project Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Project Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Project Assistant job openings:
Project Assistant jobs near you

Project Assistant, Africa Center

ATLANTIC COUNCIL OF THE U S INC

Washington, DC • On-site

$26.45 - $28.84/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Atlantic Council seeks a talented and entrepreneurial project assistant to assist in implementing a growing array of projects and initiatives related to Africa within a dynamic and fast-paced center at the Council. The project assistant will play a central role in developing and organizing program activities including; high-level speaker series, conferences, strategy sessions, task forces, and coordinating publications and other initiatives. The preferred candidate will have a strong educational background in African political, economic, or security affairs and proven administrative experience in a not-for-profit/think tank setting. The candidate must be an excellent writer, exceptionally organized with strong interpersonal skills, and capable of working in a fast-paced and culturally diverse environment.
The candidate must be able to conduct graduate-level research on a wide variety of Africa-related topics, while acting as the primary provider of administrative and logistical support for the Center's public and private events. The project assistant will report to the Center's Senior Director and interact daily with Africa Center staff and fellows.
The successful candidate will have an entrepreneurial spirit, communicate effectively, and enjoy the fast pace of building upon an established but rapidly growing program. Demonstrated expertise with the region and issues including on emerging markets such as sports, creative industries, fin tech, is vital. The position requires a strong record of organizing programs and events, excellent administrative and communication skills, a positive attitude about tackling complex and dynamic problems, superior writing ability, attention to detail, and a proven aptitude for economic and development issues.
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 $26.45 to $28.84 per hour. Applications submitted by March 3, 2026, will be prioritized for consideration.
Job Responsibilities
  • Assist Center's senior director with administrative tasks including scheduling, memos, invites, presentations and events as assigned.
  • Support the program assistant in organizing over 40 Center events per year, including workshops and conferences; liaise with the office of external relations and other centers to ensure successful execution of and publicity for Atlantic Council programming and events; provide support to senior Atlantic Council staff and Board members; coordinate travel arrangements and prepare substantive briefing material for guests coming to Washington and for Council trips abroad.
  • Draft, edit, and proofread correspondence in accordance with the Atlantic Council style guide, including event invitations, thank you notes, and follow-up correspondence.
  • Conduct background research on various topics related to emerging markets in Africa and be able to condense research materials into digestible written form and oral briefings; serve as rapporteur to Council task forces and workshops; assist in drafting and editing various Atlantic Council publications.
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of the Center's communications strategy; support the program assistant in coordinating communications products, such as monthly newsletters and video content.
  • Delegate activities to and provide guidance for program interns.
  • As time allows, provide and deliver expert commentary and analysis on US-Africa policy issues.

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in African studies, international relations, or a related field; Master's degree a plus.
  • Proven organizational and administrative skills in a not-for-profit/think tank setting, including scheduling, event planning, and project management.
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills in English; French fluency highly desirable.
  • Excellent telephone presence and interpersonal skills, including ability to work well with both interns and senior officials.
  • Innovation and creativity are highly desirable.
  • Talent for presentations (power point, Canva).
  • Ability to "go with the flow" and react quickly and professionally to changing circumstances.
  • Self-starter: comfortable with ambiguity and taking charge to problem-solve.
  • Highest attention to detail.
  • Proven research experience and expertise/interest in the African continent.
  • Interest in and understanding of transatlantic relations, the Atlantic Community, and the core mission of the Atlantic Council.

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.

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