Policy Analyst - International Affairs

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

Job summary

Orchard LLC is seeking an International Affairs Policy Analyst in Silver Spring, MD, with hybrid/remote flexibility and travel as needed. The role supports NOAA's Office of International Affairs, Trade, and Commerce in advancing sustainable global fisheries policy.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in a relevant field and at least five years in international fisheries policy, with strong writing and coordination skills to inform U.S. policy and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Marine Science, International Affairs, Environmental Policy, or Marine Resource Management is required.
• Minimum of five years of professional experience in international fisheries policy or marine resource management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth policy research and analysis on IUU fishing, bycatch, and international standards.
• Develop briefing materials, talking points, and reports for NOAA leadership and engagements.
• Support biennial congressional reports and consultations with foreign nations.
• Coordinate logistics for international meetings and interagency engagements.
• Represent the office at international meetings and workshops.

Skills

Policy research

International policy

Marine science knowledge

Technical writing

Communication

Project management

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Marine Science/International Affairs

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

As an International Affairs Policy Analyst, you will be a key contributor to the team's strategic objectives. Your work will involve in-depth analysis, international engagement, and direct support for U.S. policymakers.

• 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

Candidates must possess a strong background in international policy and marine science, demonstrated by the following qualifications:

• 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,