Foreign Affairs Specialist

Cherokee Federal • Washington, DC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Provide expert operational and advisory support to senior IO/STA staff and policymakers on policy development within the assigned portfolio (e.g., meteorology, energy, fisheries, biodiversity, conservation, water, forestry). A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify. This position requires an active Top Secret/SCI clearance.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree or equivalent and one (1) year of relevant professional experience OR Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent and two (2) years of relevant professional experience
• An active or ability to obtain a TOP SECRET/SCI Security Clearance
• Must be a US Citizen.
• This position requires an active Top Secret/SCI clearance.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Responsibilities

• Engage with organizations including but not limited to: the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
• Coordinate with Department policymakers, other USG agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to assist with developing policies and strategies that ensure consistent articulation of U.S. positions.
• Prepare analytical reports, white papers, briefings, decision memoranda, and policy guidance documents addressing international environmental issues that impact USG foreign policy objectives.
• Monitor world events and developments throughout the UN system that may affect U.S. environmental policy; report findings to senior staff.
• Provide expert advice and support in compiling, analyzing, and presenting information, courses of action, and final recommendations for senior officials' use in the policy formulation process.
• Serve as IO/STA's initial point of contact for all incoming actions from departmental offices, U.S. Embassies and Posts, other USG agencies, international organizations, foreign governments, and the private sector on issues pertaining to the assigned portfolio.
• Prepare and delivery presentations to Department of State (DOS) and other USG officials.
• Prepare materials in response to Congressional taskings and inquiries.
• Monitor world events and nations' and UN organizations' reactions; anticipate potential policy problems; assess effects on U.S. interests; and ensure policy recommendations align with USG and departmental objectives.
• Research and develop information from diverse sources, including cables and diplomatic notes; draft, review, and coordinate papers for internal, external, and interagency meetings, as well as talking points for use with allies and partners.
• Advise senior officials on new approaches, initiatives, and impending problems; ensure political sensitivities and equities are incorporated into the Department's responses.
• Assist IO/PFO in the preparation of budget analyses and review of management practices in covered organizations and programs.
• Conduct overseas site visits as needed to collect information on problems and possible solutions in program implementation.
• Attend meetings and conferences with WMO and other relevant organizations.
• Serve on delegations to international organizations and UN bodies during deliberations on energy and environmental issues.
• Ensure U.S. participation in UN fora dealing with environmental issues satisfies U.S. policy priorities and legal requirements.
• Develop and maintain interagency contacts and regular communication with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOT), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), among others.
• Participate in interagency working groups to discuss U.S. positions and promote USG policy.
• Conduct studies, develop options, and prepare position papers for interagency consideration.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Up to a 6% 401(k) company match
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage
• Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• Professional development, training, and certification support
• Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level