Coastal and Ocean Policy Analyst

The Coastal States Organization (CSO) is a small D.C. non-profit association that represents the interests of the Governors of the 35 coastal states and territories.  

Position Overview: 

CSO seeks a Policy Analyst to provide substantive review, analysis, advice and advocacy on congressional legislation, executive agency regulations and other initiatives related to the nation's coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes.

Responsibilities:

Work with Congress and Federal Agencies:

• Monitor and research legislation, federal regulations and policies.
• Draft testimony, talking points, and briefing materials for hearings, Congressional and federal agency visits.
• Advocate CSO policy positions.
• Provide written and oral briefings on such regulations, legislation, and initiatives for the Executive Director and CSO Members.

Communications:

• Monitor the Federal Register, Congressional Record and other sources for coastal, ocean and Great Lakes related regulations, news, and initiatives.
• Draft CSO's Weekly Report summarizing key legislative, regulatory and other activities.
• Lead staff responsible for creating communication one-pagers for use on the Hill.
• Take minutes at Membership meetings and Executive Committee meetings/calls for CSO records.

CSO Work Group Staff:

• Serve as lead staff to one or more of CSO's Work Groups to analyze and develop policy recommendations on behalf of the States.
• Assist Work Group Chairs in developing agendas and conducting meetings.  Work Groups may include Island Affairs, Climate Change Adaptation, or Renewable Energy.

Projects and Partnerships:

• Manage special projects as assigned, coordinate interagency fora, and strengthen partnerships with NOAA's National Ocean Service, other federal agencies, the National Estuary Programs and National Estuarine Research Reserves.

Meeting Planning and Logistics:

• Assist CSO staff with the logistics and planning of its two annual CSO Membership Meetings, Executive Committee meetings, and other special events.
• Duties will include developing agendas, soliciting presenters, assisting with logistics and registration, and ensuring successful execution of the event.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in environmental/coastal policy or political science required, advanced degree preferred.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Experience and interest in working with Congress. Some Hill experience desirable.
• Attention to detail, ability to handle multiple priorities, and work closely with small staff in collaborative way.
• Experience with publishing software, (e.g. Publisher) preferred.
• Ability to build relationships and partnerships with organizations with common interests.
• Meeting planning and logistic coordination skills.
• Project management, grants and Website experience a plus.

Compensation:  Salary range in the mid-40's, depending on experience.  Excellent benefits package includes 401(k), health, dental care and disability.

To Apply: 

Applications will be accepted until 5 PM EDT on Wednesday, May 12, 2010.  Please mail or email cover letter and resume.

Personnel
Coastal States Organization
444 N Capitol St. NW
Suite 322
Washington, DC  20001