Government Relations & External Affairs Specialist

the USO•Arlington, VA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Government Relations & External Affairs Specialist supports the execution of the organization’s government relations and external affairs strategy by assisting in building and maintaining relationships with government stakeholders, supporting legislative outreach efforts, and coordinating events and engagements that advance the organization’s mission and public profile. Working under the direction of the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs, and in support of the Manager of Policy Engagement and Advocacy, this role contributes to lobbying initiatives, assists in monitoring relevant public policy developments, prepares briefing and outreach materials, and collaborates across departments to support government relations programs and events.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in government relations, public policy, advocacy, or a related area.
Working knowledge of the federal legislative process and basic understanding of budgeting and appropriations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, accurate, and audience appropriate materials.
Ability to conduct research, analyze policy issues, and prepare concise briefing materials.
Proven ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders across varying levels and functions.
Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, virtual meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams), and basic database or tracking tools.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information.
Demonstrated adaptability, initiative, and willingness to learn in a fast paced and evolving environment.
Must be a strong advocate of the USO’s mission.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Canva or other creative software is a bonus.

Responsibilities

Support the cultivation and maintenance of relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, executive branch agencies, state and local government offices, and other key stakeholders to advance organizational priorities.
Assist in the implementation of lobbying and outreach initiatives aligned with organizational goals and legislative priorities, under the guidance of the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs and within federal lobbying guidelines.
Assist the Manager, Policy Engagement and Advocacy in tracking, monitoring, and researching public policy issues of interest to the organization.
Draft and coordinate communications materials such as correspondence, briefing memos, and background materials for meetings with various government stakeholders.
Coordinate logistics for in person and virtual meetings, briefings, webinars, and events involving government officials and senior organizational leadership, including scheduling, registration, and follow up.
Support the planning and execution of events and programs designed to increase awareness of the organization among government and public sector audiences.
Serve as a point of contact for internal teams working with the government relations department on a myriad of projects or programs.
Assist with the preparation of periodic lobbying, compliance, and activity reports, and support coordination with external consultants as directed.
Contribute to the engagement and coordination of advisory bodies or councils, including assisting with meeting preparation, communications, and follow up activities.
Track lobbying efforts and send quarterly reports to the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs for submission.
Perform other related duties as assigned.