Agency: U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
Organization: Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance, Program Office (DRG/PO)
Location of Position: Washington, DC
Telework/Remote Eligibility: The position is telework eligible.
Open Period: June 7, 2024 – June 28, 2024
Appointment Type: This is an excepted service, time-limited appointment that is not to exceed five years; may be considered for two two-year extensions depending on the needs of the service.
Salary: USD $132,860 – $191,900 per year (includes Washington, DC locality)
Number of Vacancies: One

Description of Organization: The DRG Bureau’s mission is to lead USAID’s efforts to invigorate democracy, enhance human rights and justice, and bolster governance that advances the public interest and delivers inclusive development. The DRG Bureau shapes policy and development agendas, generates knowledge and evidence that drives innovation, catalyzes partnerships and coalitions, and mobilizes cutting-edge programs and technical assistance to enable USAID’s Missions and partners to accelerate democratic development globally.

The PO manages program functions for the DRG Bureau to operate efficiently and effectively. The PO leads, coordinates, and provides guidance for the Bureau on: strategic planning, project design, and procurement management; all aspects of budgeting and financial management; statutory compliance (including environment) and performance monitoring and reporting; and strategic communications and outreach. The PO defines Bureau-wide processes, sets standards, develops systems, and liaises with intra-agency/interagency stakeholders (e.g., Department of State, Office of Foreign Assistance; Bureau for Planning, Learning, and Resource Management, Office of Budget and Resource Management; Bureau for Management, Office of Acquisition and Assistance; Bureau for Legislative and Public Affairs; Congress). More information on the functions of the Bureau and Offices are described in ADS 101.3.1.17, Agency Programs and Functions.

Description of Position: This FSL-02 Program Officer/Senior Legislative Affairs Specialist will lead the DRG Bureau’s engagement with Congress with the goal of advancing USAID’s DRG priorities. This position’s particular focus will be to keep apprised of congressional priorities and views, specifically as they relate to DRG issues and programs. This position will report to the Program Office Director.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Congressional Engagement Coordination: Build and maintain relationships with a network of Members of Congress and staff who understand the value of the DRG Bureau’s work and can advance the Bureau’s priorities in Congress;
• Congressional Analyses: Analyze the views of Congressional Committees of Jurisdiction and other relevant Members of Congress with respect to the foreign aid program affecting the DRG region;
• Communications Strategy and Implementation: Coordinate with the DRG Bureau and with LPA on implementing the communications strategy as it relates to legislative affairs; and
• Coordination with Budget Planning and Execution: Assist the DRG/PO to develop input for annual budget documents.

Qualifications: To qualify for the position of Senior Legislative Affairs Specialist – FL-02, you must possess the required Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s Degree preferred) in a related field.

Specialized Experience: For the FL-02, you must have one year of specialized experience at the FL-03/GS-13 grade level or equivalent. Specialized experience is defined as:

• Work on Capitol Hill on a Committee or in a personal office. In addition, this position requires proven experience working with members of Congress and their staff, including expertise in navigating congressional briefings and outreach;
• Demonstrated experience and leadership in developing, implementing, and evaluating legislative affairs strategic plans and engagements; and
• Knowledge of international development, foreign policy, and national security.

Conditions of Employment:

• Must be a U.S. citizen. Candidates must indicate whether they are a U.S. citizen. If citizenship is not stated, the application will not be considered; and
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Required Documents:

• Cover Letter: Candidates are required to submit a cover letter expressing interest and clearly addressing the stated requirements for the position;
• Resume/CV: Candidates must include months and years worked for each position listed;
• Writing Samples: Candidates must submit up to three communications products (legislative engagement recommendations, legislative analysis, etc.) solely authored by the applicant, no more than 700 words each;
• Transcripts: Official or unofficial transcripts; and
• References: At least three professional references.

Other Applicable Documents:

• Veteran’s Preference: Applicants claiming Veteran’s Preference must submit all appropriate documentation (DD-214, Service Disability Letter, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, etc.); and
• Political Appointee: Applicants serving as a current/former political appointee must submit all appropriate documentation (SF-50s, appointment letter, etc.).

Please submit your application package to [email protected] with the subject line: “FSL APPLICATION PACKAGE: Senior Legislative Affairs Specialist – FL-0343-02, DRG/PO.” Application submissions are required by 11:59 p.m. EDT, June 28, 2024. Packages not submitted by the deadline with the specified subject line—or incomplete packages—will not receive consideration. This notice may be used to fill additional vacancies, as the workforce needs of the Bureau may change.

USAID Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commitment
USAID envisions a world where all individuals are valued, have equitable access to opportunities, and are included, respected, and safe in their societies. USAID embraces diversity as outlined in USAID’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement. We seek to elevate and include the voices of the USAID workforce, recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of all stakeholders. USAID also strives to improve equity for underrepresented communities that have historically been denied fair and just treatment and improve accessibility in all facets at USAID.

Additional resources include:

• EEO Policy Statement
• Reasonable Accommodation Policy
• Foreign Service Salaries
• Healthcare & Insurance

Any questions concerning this notice may be directed to:

— DRG FSL Staffing Team, DRG, [email protected]