The Geological Society of America seeks to hire a Director of Geoscience Policy and External Relations – Washington D.C.
The Geological Society of America is seeking a Director of Geoscience Policy and External Relations to join our Team!
About Us
The Geological Society of America (GSA) unites a diverse community of geoscientists in a common purpose to study the mysteries of our planet and share scientific findings. Members and friends around the world, from academia, government, and industry, participate in GSA meetings, publications, and programs at all career levels, to foster professional excellence. GSA values and supports inclusion through cooperative research, public dialogue on earth issues, science education, and the application of geoscience in the service of humankind.
GSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an opportunity to participate and contribute to the success of the business organization and are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives.
The Job
The Director of Geoscience Policy and External Relations (DGPER) is responsible for advancing GSA’s public policy initiatives. This position will focus on enhancing visibility, fostering relationships, supporting fundraising efforts, mentoring, and engaging early career members while working diligently to advance the geosciences and the crucial societal issues identified by GSA. The DGPER will work closely with the senior leadership team to ensure their work is fully integrated into other GSA departments and advances GSA's mission and goals overall.
Key Essential functions include but are not limited to:
Leadership and Coordination:
- Serve as primary staff liaison to the GSA's Geology and Public Policy Committee (GPPC) and as an ex-officio, non-voting member of the GPPC.
- Engage the GSA divisions, while maintaining and growing connections with external organizations on broader geoscience policy issues.
- Provide leadership in formulating public policy through active involvement in national and state decision-making processes.
- Facilitate the GPPC meetings as well as Congressional visits.
- Manage and serve as a mentor for the Congressional Science Fellowship program.
Relationship Building:
- Establish, grow, and maintain relationships with relevant government agencies and entities impacting science, research, education, and science-related public policy.
- Increase GSA member involvement in public policy development activities.
- Maintain and establish working relationships with science-relevant federal lobbying firms.
Policy Communication:
- Facilitate the GPPC’s editing and revisions of the GSA Position Statements.
- Lead efforts to communicate GSA’s views on geoscience policy issues to relevant agencies.
- Identify and secure opportunities for briefs and testimony for hearings and meetings.
Program Development:
- Develop innovative programming to address gaps in the geoscience policy ecosystem.
- Organize activities such as policy-related field trips and webinars.
Engagement Strategies:
- Understand the evolving motivations of Congress and federal agencies.
- Continuously educate oneself on membership trends by demographic.
Fundraising and Resource Development:
- Identify and cultivate relationships with potential sponsors and grant-making organizations.
- Support the development and submission of grant proposals.
State-Level Geoscience Policy:
- Attract and organize State Geologists into discussions with policymakers.
- Expand involvement and communication of state and local earth-science policy issues.
Other Duties:
Other duties as assigned to support the mission and objectives of the GSA.
Supervision:
Supervises the Science Policy Fellow (term-limited position).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Education and Experience
- Proven track record of establishing and maintaining relationships with key personnel.
- Substantial background in science policy. A strong understanding of earth science is essential.
- Experience testifying before Congress and science advisory bodies.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrable self-initiative and capability to manage a small office.
- Experience building and leading coalitions of scientific organizations.
- Demonstrable understanding of the Congressional appropriations and legislative processes.
Working Environment / Physical Activities
- Willingness to travel, including internationally, as needed.
- Extensive computer work, handling multiple projects and deadlines.
An ideal candidate will have a Master’s and a background in national earth science.
The opportunity is a full-time, exempt position with a presence in the GSA Washington D.C. office and availability for a hybrid work environment at times. The annual salary range is $116,000 - $125,000. GSA provides excellent benefits, including medical, dental, PTO, sick time, life insurance, 403(b) retirement, and opportunities for professional development.
If you are interested in this position, please review the full job description and submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references.
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply immediately. This posting will close on October 20, 2024.
Equal Opportunity Employer: minority/female/disability/veteran.
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