Policy Analyst - International Affairs

Orchard LLC; Silver Spring (MD); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Orchard LLC seeks an International Affairs Policy Analyst to support NOAA's OIATC from Silver Spring, MD, with a flexible hybrid/remote schedule. The role focuses on advancing global fisheries governance, IUU fishing mitigation, and policy implementation for U.S.

interests. The ideal candidate holds a Master's in a relevant field and 5+ years in international fisheries policy, combining strong writing, coordination, and strategic communication skills to engage with domestic and international

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Marine Science, International Affairs, Environmental Policy, or Marine Resource Management.
• Minimum of five (5) years of international fisheries policy or marine resource management experience.
• Advanced writing skills; ability to translate complex regulatory concepts into plain language.
• Familiarity with Moratorium Protection Act, Maritime SAFE Act, and/or Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• Experience with Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) or other multilateral conservation bodies.

Responsibilities

• Policy Research & Analysis: conduct in-depth research on IUU fishing, protected species bycatch, and related topics.
• Briefing & Strategic Communications: prepare briefing materials, talking points, and reports for NOAA leadership.
• Congressional Reporting: support the biennial Report to Congress on Improving International Fisheries Management.
• International & Interagency Coordination: coordinate logistics and materials for engagements with partners and delegations.
• Global Engagement: represent the office at international meetings and conferences.

Skills

Policy analysis

Briefing & communications

Congressional reporting

International coordination

Global engagement

Advanced writing

Interagency collaboration

Project management

Education

Master's degree

Job description

International Affairs Policy Analyst - Global Fisheries & Marine Resource Management

Silver Spring, MD Based in Silver Spring, with flexibility for an approved hybrid/remote work schedule. Some international and domestic travel may be required.

Step to the forefront of global marine conservation and international policy.

@Orchard is pursuing a contract opportunity in support of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Office of International Affairs, Trade, and Commerce (OIATC). We are looking to hire three (3) experienced policy experts who will be instrumental in advancing the sustainability of global marine resources and protecting U.S. environmental and economic interests.

You will work with a dedicated team to address one of the most significant threats to our oceans: illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. By supporting the implementation of key federal mandates like the Maritime SAFE Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, you will help shape U.S. leadership in international fishery management, contribute to fair trade practices, and ensure the health of global seafood markets. This is an ideal opportunity for a policy professional with a passion for foreign affairs and marine conservation to make a tangible impact on a global scale.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Policy Research & Analysis: Conduct in-depth research and analysis on critical issues, including IUU fishing, protected species bycatch, shark conservation, and the compliance of foreign nations with international standards.
• Briefing & Strategic Communications: Develop comprehensive briefing materials, talking points, and reports to prepare NOAA leadership and staff for high-level bilateral and multilateral engagements.
• Congressional Reporting: Provide key coordination and project management support for the biennial Report to Congress on Improving International Fisheries Management, including preparing materials for consultations with other nations.
• International & Interagency Coordination: Coordinate logistics, scheduling, and presentation materials for engagements with the public, interagency partners, and foreign delegations.
• Global Engagement: Attend and provide subject matter expertise at international meetings, workshops, and conferences as a representative of the office.

Required Education and Experience

• Education: A Master's degree in a relevant field such as Marine Science, International Affairs, Environmental Policy, or Marine Resource Management is required.
• Professional Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in international fisheries policy or marine resource management.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Subject Matter Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of global fisheries dynamics, bycatch issues, IUU fishing, and the interconnectedness of fisheries and international markets.
• Legislative & Regulatory Knowledge: Working knowledge of the Moratorium Protection Act, Maritime SAFE Act, and/or the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Familiarity with Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) or other multilateral conservation bodies is essential.
• Advanced Writing Skills: Exceptional professional writing ability, with proven experience translating complex technical and regulatory concepts into clear, concise, and accessible plain language.
• Communication & Collaboration: Superior interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of domestic and international partners.
• Organizational Skills: Proven organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.

If you are passionate about protecting our marine resources and have the expertise to drive this critical national security and environmental initiative, we encourage you to apply.