Legislative Affairs Specialist, USDA Forest Service (Washington, DC)
Deadline: December 23, 2011
These positions offer a unique opportunity to participate in the legislative process and to gain an understanding of the relationship between the Congress and the Forest Service. These positions require strong writing, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
The Legislative Affairs staff is a small, cohesive unit that requires the ability to work as a member of a highly productive team as well as independently. A heavy emphasis is placed on timely accomplishment of multiple tasks under tight deadlines. The pace of work is often intense and demanding, but the jobs are critical in meeting the overall mission of the agency.
An assignment in the LA staff is excellent career preparation for those seeking positions of higher responsibility within the Forest Service since the work provides a unique chance to work on critical issues. LA staff are in a position to see the "big picture" and to work with agency leadership across all Deputy Areas.
DUTIES
Specific duties include preparation for Congressional hearings (drafting and clearing testimony though the agency, Department and OMB; witness preparation; briefing book production); interacting frequently with Hill staffers to gain and share information on Forest Service issues; arranging for and participating in briefings for Members and congressional staffs on current issues; responding to inquiries from Congress, other Forest Service units, and outside organizations on Forest Service issues and possible legislative actions related to those issues; working with program staffs to develop legislative priorities and proposals and legislative drafting services; preparing and reviewing critical correspondence related to legislation; developing and maintaining positive Congressional relationships; and tracking pertinent legislation. In fulfilling these functions, LA staff works collaboratively with program staff and line officer at all levels of the Agency.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifying experience for the GS-14 level includes one year of specialized experience at least equivalent to the GS-13 level which is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Examples are providing expert analysis and advice on complex program issues; managing special projects for major office or program issues of broad impact; or managing special cross cutting initiatives or task force groups to accomplish programmatic goals.
TO APPLY
Applications for this position are being processed through an on-line applicant assessment system that has been specifically configured for USDA Forest Service applicants. Please see the online job announcement for more information.
