Government Relations Assistant
POSITION SUMMARY:
The American Political Science Association (APSA) seeks a part-time Government Relations Assistant to work up to twenty hours per week supporting APSA’s advocacy and public policy efforts. The Government Relations Assistant will assist with monitoring legislative and regulatory developments, conduct basic research on public policy related matters, and attend informational meetings and briefings with coalition partners. This is an opportunity to gain professional experience in the intersection of public policy, advocacy, and political science.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The examples of essential functions listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position. Duties and responsibilities are also subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
- Under the supervision of the Associate Director, conduct basic legislative research to support APSA's government relations activities. This may include researching Members of Congress, reviewing bills and regulations, attending congressional hearings and writing updates for APSA staff awareness.
- Track news stories, social media, and popular coverage of science funding, research agencies, and political science.
- Assist with scheduling and preparation for meetings with key contacts on Capitol Hill and in the federal government.
- Attend meetings, briefings, and advocacy events with coalitions and other partner organizations to take notes; draft meeting minutes as needed.
- Support the Associate Director with advocacy and public engagement-focused programs, webinars, and resources for members.
- Carry out administrative duties, including organizing files, updating databases, maintaining contact lists, etc.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of experience required; degree in political science, public policy or related field preferred.
- Demonstrated interest in the legislative process, including prior hands-on experience or knowledge about Congress.
- Interest in federally funded research and its role in shaping public policy.
- Ability to complete assigned tasks and assignments independently as well as in collaboration with team and across teams.
- Attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks within established deadlines.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively in a knowledgeable and friendly manner and represent APSA with professionalism.
- Excellent support and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job description is subject to change at any time. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate and exchange information. The employee frequently is required to remain in a stationary position and constantly operate computers and other office productivity machinery.
- Generally good working conditions with little or no exposure to extremes in noise or temperature.
- Minimal lifting.
- Work performed in an office setting.
- Hybrid schedule (at least 2 days a week in the office) as well as in-person activities on Capitol Hill and for other external events in the DC area as needed.
- All team members are required to adhere to the APSA vaccination policy.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
Hourly rate: $26.88-$30.02
Part-time employees are eligible for statutory benefits only.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:
Report to: Associate Director, Government Relations & Public Engagement.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
No supervisory responsibilities.
FLSA STATUS:
This position is considered non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore eligible for overtime pay.
APSA is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.