Manager – Government Affairs

Cato Institute

Manager of Government Affairs influencing policy through relationships with federal policymakers. Overseeing engagement strategies on a range of domestic policy issues at the Cato Institute.

Posted 7/21/2026full-timeWashington, DC • District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $65,000 - $100,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in policy analysis and engagement strategies to influence congressional and executive branch dynamics. Possesses strong relationship-building skills with policymakers and a comprehensive understanding of congressional operations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Policy AnalysisEngagement StrategiesCongressional RulesIssue-Management ExperienceCommunication of Policy Positions

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Policy AnalysisIssue-ManagementCongressional ProceduresTestimony PreparationStrategic Communication

Soft Skills

Relationship BuildingJudgmentCollaborationIntegrityDedication to Principle

Industry Keywords

Political ScienceEconomicsThink Tank ExperienceFederal AffairsPolicy Debate

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Build and maintain relationships with policymakers in Congress and the executive branch
Identify, create, and assist with opportunities for Cato scholars to provide congressional testimony, statements for the record, and other high-impact opportunities for Cato scholars
Track and advise Cato scholars and staff on ongoing and emerging dynamics in Congress and the executive branch to ensure Cato’s maximum impact on the policy debate
Devise, recommend, and execute engagement strategies for the issue portfolio with the goal of positively influencing the policy debate
Oversee distribution of Cato scholarship to an audience in Congress and the executive branch
Work with existing federal affairs staff to ensure Cato-wide coordination of the Institute’s efforts
Exercise exceptional judgment to ensure the protection and enhancement of Cato’s reputation for excellence, integrity, and dedication to principle

Requirements

What you’ll need

A bachelor’s degree in political science, economics, or a related field
Three to six years of issue-management experience in Congress or the executive branch, or similar experience with a think tank, association, or in the for-profit sector
Demonstrated experience with policy analysis and communicating policy positions to external audiences
A demonstrated appreciation for Cato’s mission and principles
Comprehensive understanding of congressional rules, procedures, and operations

Benefits

Comp & perks

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