10/29/2026
PT job opening at The James Merrill House & Writer-in-Residence Program in Stonington. Administrative & Communications Assistant
$35 an hour
Professional development assistance, Paid time off, Flexible schedule
Part-time
Hybrid work in 107 Water Street, Stonington
James Merrill House
Compensation: $3,033/month ($35/hour equivalent)
Hours: 20 hours per week | Flexible schedule | Primarily remote
The James Merrill House (JMH) is a small nonprofit organization with an international reputation, dedicated to preserving the legacy of poet James Merrill and supporting contemporary writers.
Since 1995, more than 160 writers have lived and worked in Merrill's former home in Stonington, Connecticut, now a National Historic Landmark. Today, our work includes a writer-in-residence program, literary events, public programming, historic preservation, and fundraising.
We're a small, active organization with a Director, an engaged Board of Directors, and a growing community of writers, volunteers, supporters, and collaborators.
About the Position
We're seeking an experienced, highly organized, and proactive Administrative & Communications Assistant to work closely with the Director in supporting the daily operations and ongoing goals of the James Merrill House.
This is a varied, hands-on role for someone who enjoys organization, technology, communications, and making things run smoothly. The Assistant will help manage the administrative details, systems, and communications that allow the organization to operate effectively and its programs to thrive.
We're looking for someone who is dependable, detail-oriented, and resourceful, with the initiative to work independently and the collaborative spirit to work toward shared goals. You'll work directly with the Director to establish priorities, manage projects, and ensure that important tasks are completed accurately and on time.
Key Responsibilities
Administration & Database Management
Maintain donor and contact databases (CharityProud), mailing lists, and organizational records.
Organize digital and physical files, invoices, receipts, and financial paperwork.
Track administrative tasks, deadlines, and recurring responsibilities.
Process mail, prepare correspondence, and coordinate routine office operations.
Help improve organizational systems and workflows.
Communications & Marketing
Update and maintain the James Merrill House website (Wix).
Prepare and send email newsletters, announcements (Constant Contact).
Create and schedule social media content in collaboration with the Director.
Maintain press lists and assist with publicity and promotional materials.
Proofread and prepare communications, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Fundraising & Program Support
Assist with fundraising appeals, donor mailings, acknowledgments, and database tracking.
Support administrative preparations for literary readings, events, and public programs.
Help coordinate event information, registration, and occasional event logistics.
Assist the Director with special projects and organizational priorities as needed.
Who We're Looking For
Our ideal candidate is someone who loves organization, takes pride in details, and enjoys being an essential part of a small team.
We're looking for someone who is:
Highly organized, accurate, and attentive to detail.
Experienced in administrative support, database management, or office operations.
Comfortable with technology, including spreadsheets, websites, email marketing platforms, and digital tools.
A strong communicator with excellent writing and proofreading skills.
Proactive and self-motivated, able to anticipate needs and follow through independently.
Collaborative, adaptable, and comfortable working closely with the Director toward shared goals.
Dependable, discreet, and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Interested in literature, the arts, history, or cultural organizations.
Experience with Wix, Constant Contact, CharityProud, Canva, or similar platforms is a plus. Previous experience in nonprofit administration, communications, or fundraising is particularly welcome.
We're happy to train someone on our specific systems, but strong organizational skills, relevant experience, and confidence with technology are important.
Schedule & Benefits
Compensation: $3,033 per month based on 20 hours per week ($35/hour equivalent).
Location: Hybrid, with approximately one day per week on-site at the James Merrill House Visitors Center in Stonington, Connecticut. Remaining hours may be worked remotely with a flexible schedule.
Benefits include:
Paid time off and a flexible work schedule.
Access to James Merrill House events and programs.
Opportunities for professional development.
The chance to contribute to a respected literary organization and work closely with its Director, Board, and community.
How to Apply
Please send a resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in the position and your relevant experience.
Please also briefly answer these three questions:
Tell us about a time you were responsible for managing information, records, or a database. What systems did you use, and how did you ensure accuracy?
Tell us about a time you identified a problem or an inefficient process at work and took the initiative to improve it. What did you do?
Tell us about your experience working as part of a team. How do you approach collaboration, communication, and balancing independent responsibilities with shared goals?
Send applications to: [email protected]
Application deadline: November 12, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews taking place in November or early December.
Anticipated start date: Mid-late December 2026
The James Merrill House is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.
Benefits:
Flexible schedule
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Application Question(s):
Please briefly explain your interest in working at the James Merrill House and the experience you would bring to this position. In your response, please also answer the three questions listed in the job description.
