Senior Director, Applied Science and Technology Policy

American Psychological Association

Senior Director providing strategic direction on APA’s applied science and technology policy advocacy. Engaging with stakeholders to influence legislative and regulatory frameworks for workplace wellness and technology issues.

Posted 7/8/2026full-timeRemote • District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $134,500 - $206,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provides leadership, strategic direction, and oversight of APA’s applied science and technology advocacy portfolio
Designs and leads advocacy campaigns advancing evidence-informed federal policy on technology policy
Builds and sustains relationships with executive-branch and congressional stakeholders
Drafts and negotiates high-stakes advocacy materials for diverse stakeholders
Monitors and analyzes federal legislation and regulations for impact on psychology
Serves as primary advocacy partner to members of the Psychology Team
Collaborates with cross-functional teams to advance APA priorities

Requirements

What you’ll need

10+ years of experience in a responsible position working with government, Congress or in the private sector
A master’s degree or other advanced degree is required; a doctoral degree is preferred
Direct experience in legislative and regulatory processes
Expertise in science and emerging technology policy, AI governance, online safety, workplace mental health, neuroscience ethics and related fields
Experience drafting and working with employers and other stakeholders
Advanced skills with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
Advanced skills with advocacy platforms (CQ Engage)
Basic skills with social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube)
Working knowledge of frontier AI platforms

Benefits

Comp & perks

Remote Work/Flexible Scheduling
401(k) option with employer match of up to 4%
Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
Outpatient mental health benefit
Paid personal/vacation time plus 12 paid holidays
Family/Medical Leave
Tuition assistance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Short- and long-term disability insurance

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Hard Skills & Tools

Legislative ProcessesRegulatory ProcessesAdvocacy Campaign DesignDrafting Advocacy MaterialsMonitoring Federal LegislationAnalyzing RegulationsNegotiation SkillsRelationship BuildingEvidence-Informed Policy DevelopmentWorkplace Mental Health Expertise

Soft Skills

LeadershipStrategic DirectionCollaborationCommunication