Professional Staff/Counsel – Science

United States Senate; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Democratic Ranking Member of a high-profile Senate Committee seeks a qualified candidate to lead the Committee’s work on science and technology policy, including AI, quantum, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and CHIPS and Science Act implementation.

The role requires strong policy, research, and drafting skills with experience in federal policy and a proactive, detail-oriented mindset.

Qualifications

• Experience in legislative, federal government, or technology policy is preferred.
• Strong written and oral communication is essential.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Committee’s work on science and technology policy including AI, quantum, biotech, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductors.
• Develop legislative and policy proposals and draft policy memoranda, briefing materials, and legislative text.
• Conduct research and agency oversight; prepare for hearings, markups, and floor debates.
• Attend constituent and stakeholder meetings and manage multiple priorities under pressure.

Skills

Legislative policy

Policy research

Agency oversight

Communications

Policy writing

Job description

The Democratic Ranking Member of a high-profile Senate Committee seeks a qualified candidate to lead the Committee’s work on science and technology policy, including AI, quantum, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act. The successful candidate will help develop legislative and policy proposals; conduct research and agency oversight; draft policy memoranda, briefing materials, and legislative text; attend constituent and stakeholder meetings; and prepare for Congressional hearings, markups, and floor debate. Applicants should have a strong understanding of emerging science and technology issues, federal research and innovation policy, STEM education and workforce development, and policies that support advanced manufacturing and the skilled technical workforce. The portfolio will include programs and activities within the Office of Science and Technology Policy, National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and other relevant science and technology agencies. The successful candidate must be proactive, detail-oriented, and able to work effectively under pressure. Strong written and oral communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, small-team environment are essential. Legislative, federal government, research, or technology-policy experience is strongly preferred, with at least five years of relevant professional experience desired. A connection to the Pacific Northwest is a plus.