Director of Government Affairs
Cato Institute
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Washington, DC • District of Columbia • Washington • United States
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Salary
💰 $115,000 - $150,000 per year
Job Level
About the role
- Build and maintain relationships with policymakers on Capitol Hill, with a special emphasis on the House and Senate Judiciary and Commerce Committees, and within the Executive Branch.
- Identify, create, and assist with opportunities for Cato scholars to provide testimonies, statements for the record, and other high-impact opportunities.
- Track and advise Cato scholars and staff on ongoing and emerging dynamics on Capitol Hill and within the Administration to ensure Cato’s maximum impact on policy.
- Devise, recommend, and execute engagement strategies (in coordination with relevant Cato policy staff) for the issue portfolio to positively influence the policy debate.
- Oversee distribution of Cato scholarship to Capitol Hill and Administration audiences.
- Work with existing federal affairs staff to ensure Cato-wide coordination of the Institute’s efforts.
- Exercise exceptional judgment to protect and enhance Cato’s reputation for excellence, integrity, and dedication to principle.
Requirements
- At least 7 to 10 years of experience on Capitol Hill or the Administration, working in a legislative position or a government affairs department for a think tank, association, or in the for-profit sector.
- Bachelor’s degree and/or work experience commensurate with a degree in a relevant field.
- Must have professional relationships with federal policymakers, the Administration, and other think tanks.
- Existing relationships within progressive-leaning policy and advocacy networks are a plus.
- Comprehensive understanding of Congressional rules, procedures, and operations.
- A demonstrated appreciation for Cato’s mission and principles.
- Experience working on legal-related policy issues or in a legal setting.
- A relevant advanced degree, such as a JD, MPA, or MPP, is preferred but not required.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Generous vacation and sick days
- Paid parental leave
- Employer-provided life and disability insurance
- 401(k) employer match
- Transit/Parking benefits
- Pet discount plan
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
legislative experiencegovernment affairspolicy analysislegal policy issuestestimony preparationengagement strategiesrelationship managementpolicy advocacyCongressional proceduresadministration dynamics
Soft Skills
exceptional judgmentrelationship buildingstrategic thinkingcommunicationcollaborationintegritydedication to principleinfluenceadvisory skillscoordination
Certifications
Bachelor's degreeJDMPAMPP