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Program Coordinator – READS Lab

Closes:

Salary: $63,132 – $65,000 per year

934

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Graduate School of Education?

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and employees who are passionate about changing the world through education and striving for maximum impact in the field of education.

Many choose to work at the Harvard Graduate School of Education because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work, for our excellent leadership, and we are a strong community that values diversity. For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.

Job Description

Job Summary:

HGSE is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and employees who are passionate about changing the world by improving education. READS Lab at Harvard University is a joyful, agile research team that builds long-term partnerships with school districts to solve grand challenges in literacy and education. We do this by advancing the 3Rs of research—relevance, rigor, and replication. We encourage you to check out our website to learn more about both READS Lab and the MORE Program, which this position would support. The Program Coordinator will also be part of the Center for Education Policy Research (CEPR) at Harvard University. CEPR and its partners believe all students will learn and thrive when education leaders make decisions using facts and findings, rather than untested assumptions. Learn more at cepr.harvard.edu.

The Program Coordinator will support the READS Lab’s Project Manager and Curriculum & Learning Development Manager by executing a range of activities that require attention to detail and high-quality writing and editing. A core responsibility of this position is to organize and maintain administrative systems and procedures that support the Lab’s work. The Coordinator will also provide logistics support for Lab events; coordinate and draft communications; support research studies; and contribute day-to-day operations. This role may also support the classroom tools team by drafting, editing, and providing quality control of teacher-facing resources for MORE (Model of Reading Engagement) and digital activities. The Coordinator will be part of the broader CEPR research team and may also support additional CEPR projects that require precise, clear, and audience-appropriate written materials.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Project support (50%)

  • In collaboration with Program Managers, contributes to and work within program budgets; processes all program-related invoices, transactions, and reimbursements in a timely way; monitors and reconciles expenses and reviews contracts as necessary.
  • Contributes to administrative, operational, and logistical tasks for grant-funded research initiatives, including supporting data collection efforts, issuing and maintaining paperwork for human subjects payments, and reviewing and contributing to 2-pagers and research briefs.
  • Assist in the writing and editing of teacher-facing classroom resources and digital activities for the MORE (Model of Reading Engagement) curriculum.
  • Assists with other projects and work as necessary.

Communications and social media (30%)

  • Support implementation of the READS Lab’s communications calendar and promotion schedule to ensure timely release of materials, publications, announcements, and event promotions.
  • Draft, edit, and distribute newsletters, social media posts email campaigns, announcements, and other public-facing communications related to research, publications, and other relevant topics.
  • Maintain and update the READS Lab websites, including posting research, news, profiles, events, and program information, and coordinating with technical staff as needed.
  • Assist with drafting and scheduling content for social media channels, monitor engagement, and help strengthen the READS’s digital presence.

Events support (20%)

  • Conducts the planning and execution of Lab events, including travel logistics, using an event checklist and timeline, and adhering to programmatic deadlines.  Works to anticipate logistical needs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Two years of K-5 teaching experience or relevant work experience
  • Candidates moving to the final round will be asked to do a timed writing task.
  • Candidates must submit a resume and cover letter. Any applicant wishing to be considered for this position must indicate that they meet all the basic requirements in either the cover letter or resume.

The position is currently a hybrid position with 3 days in the Cambridge office and 2 days remote.

This position is a term appointment for one year from the date of hire, with a strong possibility of continuation.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor’s Degree preferred
  • Experience in website content management, graphic design, video editing and design tools such as Canva, iMovie, and Adobe Creative Cloud.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor content to different audiences.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Skill working in a deadline-oriented environment while managing multiple concurrent priorities, working both independently and as a team member.
  • projects and deadlines in a collaborative environment.
  • Strong interpersonal, leadership, and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness and interest to contribute to organizational learning and a commitment to enthusiastically support the overall activity of the unit.
  • Ability to work in an open office environment.

Additional Information

  • Appointment End Date: One year from the date of hire
  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $63,132 - $65,000 commensurate with experience
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Program Coordinator – READS Lab
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Aug 18, 2026
Closes:
Oct 17, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Other Administrative Positions
Salary

Salary: $63,132 – $65,000 per year

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Frequently Asked Questions

📋What does the Program Coordinator – READS Lab do day to day?

The Program Coordinator – READS Lab supports project management, communications and social media, and event logistics for the READS Lab and the MORE (Model of Reading Engagement) program at Harvard University. Core tasks include processing invoices and reimbursements, tracking program budgets, supporting grant-funded research, drafting and editing teacher-facing classroom resources, maintaining the READS Lab website, and planning events. Learn more about how to become a university program coordinator.

🎓What qualifications are required for the Harvard READS Lab Program Coordinator role?

You must have two years of K-5 teaching experience or relevant work experience. A bachelor's degree is preferred but not required. The role values strong writing and editing skills, website content management, and familiarity with Canva, iMovie, or Adobe Creative Cloud. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities are essential. Review university program coordinator requirements and use the free resume template to align your application.

💼What is the work arrangement, schedule, and salary?

This is a hybrid position requiring 3 days per week in the Cambridge office and 2 days remote. It is a 35-hour-per-week, one-year term appointment with a strong possibility of continuation. The compensation range is $63,132 – $65,000, commensurate with experience. Harvard provides medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and tuition assistance.

🌐Does Harvard sponsor visas for the Program Coordinator – READS Lab position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. International applicants must already have valid work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship. If you have questions about eligibility, contact the hiring department before applying.

📝How do I apply for the READS Lab Program Coordinator job?

Submit a resume and cover letter through the Harvard University application portal. In either document, explicitly indicate that you meet all basic requirements, including two years of K-5 teaching experience or relevant work experience. Candidates moving to the final round will complete a timed writing task. For application materials, see the free cover letter template and program coordinator interview questions and tips.

📚What is READS Lab and the MORE Program?

The READS Lab at Harvard University is a research team focused on literacy and education. It advances the 3Rs of research—relevance, rigor, and replication and partners with school districts to solve literacy challenges. The MORE Program (Model of Reading Engagement) is a classroom curriculum supported by this position, with teacher-facing resources and digital activities. Explore administration jobs in higher education to see related career paths.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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