Director of Federal Agency Relations

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

4d • $109,300 - $164,000

About The Position

The Office of Government and Community Relations is seeking a Director of Federal Agency Relations who serves as a liaison between the university and local, state, and federal government entities; advocates for the mission and priorities of the University through the development of strategic relationships with government officials, agencies, and policymakers; monitors legislative developments in order to determine impact to the University; initiates action committees, briefings, and panels to ensure University relevance and impact in the political sphere; works collaboratively across academic and administrative departments to ensure that the university’s interests are effectively represented in the public policy arena.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Responsibilities

• Foster partnerships with government officials and policymakers to advocate for the interests of the University; represent the organization with federal, state, and local agencies; establish strategic relationships that strengthen legislative influence
• Monitor, analyze, and interpret legislation, proposals, policies, emerging issues, and regulations; determine impact to the university; present updates and recommendations to leadership
• Influence government policy and legislative direction to advance University goals related to research, education, and service
• Develop and execute initiatives, action committees, panels, and outreach events
• Assist in the development and execution of advocacy strategies, including preparation of briefing materials, fact sheets, policy statements, talking points, and presentations; draft reports, memos, and correspondence to policymakers and stakeholders
• Engage advocacy groups and community-based organizations that have complementary objectives in order to gain stakeholder interest, government support, and enhance organizational goals
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities that align with the university's mission and strategic strengths
• Collaborate with university leadership to uncover and develop parallel funding opportunities that complement institutional goals
• Coordinate campus visits and events involving public officials, including town halls, roundtables, and recognition ceremonies
• Represent the university in external coalitions, higher education associations, and regional government affairs networks
• Ensure compliance with lobbying disclosure and reporting requirements at the federal and state levels

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees