Director, Congressional Fellowship Program

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director oversees and manages the American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship Program (CFP). CFP is a highly selective, nonpartisan program for mid-career professionals devoted to expanding knowledge and awareness of Congress. Since 1953, it has brought select political scientists, journalists, federal employees, health specialists, and other professionals to Capitol Hill to experience Congress at work through fellowship placements on congressional staffs. The Director is responsible for the full cycle of the program beginning with the recruitment and training of fellows through the creation of seminars and enrichment opportunities for program alumni. The Director is also responsible for relations with the advisory board and partner organizations, as well as the strategic direction of the program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The examples of essential functions listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position. Duties and responsibilities are also subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

• Direct the 10-month program for 30-40 fellows: 
• Recruit applicants and work with committee of alumni to select fellows directly funded by APSA as well as liaising with outside sponsor organizations to recruit and select fellows. 
• Organize orientation for fellows based on previous orientation programs and partner organization feedback, including planning topics and curriculum, identifying and securing speakers, providing instruction in choosing and securing a placement, and working with the program associate to secure space and plan for logistics and catering.
• Assist fellows in securing fellowship placements in the legislative or executive branches. 
• Provide ongoing support to fellows and liaise with host offices throughout the duration of the program. 
• Host regular enrichment programming for the fellows, including developing new programs and activities to support the program.
• Actively manage the strategic direction and development of the program, including developing, maintaining, and strengthening relationships with sponsoring organizations, host or potential host offices, and other partners.
• In coordination with other APSA departments, develop donor community and expand partner organization network to raise external funding for the program and develop materials to publicize the program and represent the program to outside groups and sponsors.
• Develop and engage the Congressional Fellowship Program alumni community by maintaining networks and contacts, organizing events, and creating alumni resources.
• Report to and liaise with the APSA Congressional Fellowship Program Advisory Committee and APSA Council on various aspects of the program and organize the annual Advisory Committee meeting. 
• Collaborate with the APSA Finance team to oversee the fellowship endowment, operating costs, and budget of the program. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITY:

• Advanced degree in political science or related other social science discipline, Ph.D. preferred; 
• At least 7 years of related experience, such as working on Capitol Hill, liaising with members of Congress and their staff through lobbying or advocacy work, or managing a large fellowship program;
• Familiarity with current events and issues facing higher education, the social sciences, and the discipline of political science;
• Strong analytical and public speaking skills and ability to write clearly and concisely;
• Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail and adherence to deadlines;
• Adaptability and ability to work in a fast-paced team environment;
• Superb collaboration skills to work with colleagues across departments at APSA to meet shared goals;
• Sound judgment and initiative related to appropriate and independent action and problem-solving;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality while working on sensitive tasks; and,
• Experience with academic program administration and administrative responsibilities. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job description is subject to change at any time. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate and exchange information. The employee frequently is required to remain in a stationary position and constantly operate computer and other office productivity machinery.

• Generally good working conditions with little or no exposure to extremes in noises or temperature. 
• Minimal lifting or climbing. 
• Work performed in an office setting.
• Hybrid schedule (at least 2 days a week in the office) as well as in-person orientation and activities on Capitol Hill and for other external events in the DC area.
• All team members are required to adhere to the APSA vaccination policy.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

Reports to: Executive Director

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

One (1) Program Assistant/Associate 

SALARY RANGE & BENEFITS:

Salary Range: $85,000.00 - 100,000.00 annually

APSA offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision plans for employees, dependents and spouses/domestic partners, disability and life insurance, paid family and medical leave, professional development and public transportation stipends, a 403(b) retirement plan with a generous employer contribution, and robust time off policies, including paid time off for the week between Christmas and New Years. APSA also has a 35-hour work week, a hybrid work environment, a kind, respectful, and collaborative team, opportunities to learn (questions and concerns are always welcome) and make an impact in your role and, the political science field as a whole.

FLSA STATUS:

This position is considered exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore not eligible for overtime pay.

APSA is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.