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Legislative Affairs Officer

NIST Office of the Director
Gaithersburg, MD Other
POSTED ON 4/21/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 4/27/2026
This role serves as the critical bridge between NIST's scientific mission and the federal legislative process, ensuring the agency has the authorities and funding necessary to drive American innovation.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Congressional & Legislative Affairs Office is seeking a Program Analyst to lead the agency's engagement with Congress and oversee the development of its annual legislative agenda.

Qualifications:

This position requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 (ZA-IV at NIST) level. Specialized experience is defined as:
Experience leading legislative, intergovernmental, and external affairs for organizations responsible for scientific research, engineering, standards, laboratory programs, industrial competitiveness, cybersecurity, or emerging technologies; advising senior leadership on congressional strategy; and assessing legislative or budget proposals with enterprise-wide impact.


Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.

If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site:
Applicant Reconsideration

Responsibilities:

Duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Leading the creation of the annual NIST legislative package, navigating the complex multi-stage clearance process through NIST, DOC, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
  • Serving as the "face" of NIST on Capitol Hill, building and maintaining relationships with Members of Congress and key committee staff.
  • Actively garnering Congressional support for NIST initiatives, budget requests, and shifts in science/technology policy.
  • Providing high-level counsel to NIST and Department of Commerce (DOC) leadership regarding Congressional actions that could impact the agency's mission or jurisdiction.

Salary : $169,279

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