Congressional Affairs Assistant

Each year, the United States Department of States Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) offers a year-long, paid internship for an interested graduate or student. The internship appointment is a full time, one-year, paid position and offers qualified candidates a unique opportunity to work directly with the Special Assistant for Congressional Relations in the OES Bureau.

The OES Bureau addresses a wide range of international environmental and scientific issues including climate change, international HIV/AIDS policy, international environmental treaties, sustainable management of fisheries and forestry, marine pollution, endangered species, biotechnology, toxic chemicals and pesticides. The internship offers great insight into the executive and legislative processes through which the Department furthers its foreign policy objectives in the areas of oceans, environment and science.

Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring federal legislation and Congressional activity on issues related to the Bureau and disseminating relevant information to appropriate Bureau officers,
• assisting in the arrangement of briefings for Congressional members and staff on intergovernmental environmental meetings and other OES issues;
• assisting in the coordination of Congressional hearings for OES officials appearing as witnesses;
• and keeping abreast of a wealth of information on key Internet websites.
• In addition to working with personnel in other bureaus in the Department, the position may also involve coordination with employees of other federal agencies, Congressional staff, non-governmental organizations and/or industry associations.

Qualifications:

• A qualified applicant will have earned a bachelors degree, though exceptional undergraduate students will be considered.
• Candidates should have a strong interest in/knowledge of international and/or global environmental affairs as well as an understanding of domestic political process.
• This position requires excellent computer skills, including knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc., Internet research,
• Clear and accurate verbal and written communication. The successful applicant will be comfortable managing multiple tasks independently, and working under deadlines.

This appointment will begin in February 2003.
The application deadline is Friday, October 25, 2002.

Candidates are urged to apply as soon as possible. All new Department of State hires are subject to security clearance process.

If you are interested in applying, please send your cover letter and resume to Kathryn Wasik via e-mail or fax. If you have questions about the position, please call 202-736-7781.