The Smithsonian Institution (SI) is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is in Office of Assistant Secretary Communications and External Affairs and Chief Marketing Officer, Office of Government Relations (OGR). More than one selection may be made from this announcement.
Experience: You qualify for this GS-13 position if you possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. For this position specialized experience is 1) expert experience with of the legislative process; 2) establishing and maintaining relationships with key members of Congress and congressional staff, personnel in other Federal agencies, members of local government, and other as appropriate; and 3) applying laws, policies, regulations pertaining to the legislative and budgeting process. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.
OGR is responsible for Congressional, intergovernmental, and intra-governmental relations for the SI and for representing the interests of the Institution before Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees and subcommittees, executive branch agencies, and state and local governments. This position reports to the Director, OGR and participates in all facets of the work of the Office. The purpose this position will assist in the formulation and implementation of important SI legislative and policy initiatives and issues. In this position, you will perform the following duties: Works closely with high-level staff throughout SI who are responsible for developing program and policy initiatives. Ensures that initiatives are in line with the Secretary’s stated goals. Prepares summaries and/or comprehensive bill reports to keep interested parties current on status. Develops formal and informal briefings for interested parties. Drafts and prepares position papers, talking points, speeches, background papers and other documents for the Director, OGR. Establishes and maintains relationships with key members of Congress and congressional staff, personnel in other Federal agencies, members of local government, and other as appropriate. Represents the Director at meetings and conferences and presents the official SI position on matters addressed.