Aquaculture Policy Analyst I

*Authorized to work in the US required; US Citizenship preferred

*Remote Position with occasional travel to Silver Spring, MD

*Applicants residing in the DMV area preferred as the client is located in Silver Spring, MD

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Policy Analyst I serves as a senior policy professional and point of contact supporting NOAA Fisheries. This role leads complex policy and regulatory analyses, develops strategic policy recommendations, and coordinates multi-agency policy reviews that inform federal decision-making related to aquaculture development and regulatory oversight.

The analyst operates with substantial independence and provides subject-matter expertise on federal aquaculture policy and regulatory frameworks.

RESPONSBILITIES:

Advanced Policy and Regulatory Analysis

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of legislation, federal statutes, regulatory frameworks, and policy proposals affecting marine aquaculture.

• Develop policy options and recommendations for NOAA leadership.

• Prepare high-level briefing materials, policy memoranda, and issue papers for senior agency officials.

• Lead development of analytical tools, decision-support materials, and policy comparison frameworks.

Interagency Policy Coordination

• Coordinate review and comment processes across NOAA offices, regional aquaculture coordinators, and federal partners.

• Lead consolidation of agency comments on draft policies, regulations, and interagency documents.

• Facilitate collaboration among federal agencies, state partners, and stakeholders.

Strategic Communications and Outreach

• Develop communications strategies and policy messaging that support aquaculture program objectives.

• Prepare stakeholder-facing materials including policy summaries, outreach documents, and briefing packages.

• Support planning and execution of outreach activities, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.

Meeting Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead preparation of agendas, briefing materials, and presentations for internal and external policy discussions.

• Facilitate policy discussions and document key decisions and action items.

• Represent program priorities in coordination meetings with partner organizations.

Program Management and Reporting

• Support task order management activities and monitor progress toward program objectives.

• Lead preparation of monthly progress reports summarizing program accomplishments, risks, and upcoming priorities.

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior policy analysts and support staff.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Master's degree in marine science, environmental policy, public administration, or a related discipline.

• Three or more years of professional experience supporting federal policy or regulatory analysis related to marine resource management or aquaculture.

• Demonstrated knowledge of federal environmental and fisheries statutes, including:

  • Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA)

  • National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

  • Endangered Species Act (ESA)

  • Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience supporting NOAA Fisheries, NMFS, or other federal marine resource agencies.

• Demonstrated ability to develop policy recommendations and briefing materials for senior leadership.

• Experience coordinating interagency policy reviews or regulatory consultations.

• Strong project management, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills.