Congressional Affairs Specialist

Job Title: Congressional Affairs Specialist

Location: Washington, D.C.

Job Summary:

The Congressional Affairs Specialist will be responsible for managing the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representation Office in the United States relations with the United States Congress. This role involves developing and implementing strategies to enhance the KRG’s engagement with Congressional members and staff, monitoring legislative activities, and advocating for policies beneficial to the Kurdistan Region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Legislative Monitoring and Analysis:
• Track and analyze legislative developments and policy issues relevant to the Kurdistan Region.
• Prepare reports and briefings on legislative activities and their potential impact on the KRG.
• Relationship Building:
• Establish and maintain relationships with members of Congress, their staff, and relevant Congressional committees.
• Organize and coordinate meetings between KRG representatives and Congressional members and staff.
• Advocacy and Outreach:
• Advocate for the KRG’s positions and interests in meetings, hearings, and other interactions with Congress.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, testimonies, and written communications to articulate the KRG’s priorities and policies.
• Coordinate and attend events, such as Congressional hearings, briefings, and receptions, to promote the KRG’s agenda.
• Strategic Planning and Execution:
• Develop and implement strategic plans for Congressional engagement and advocacy.
• Identify opportunities to advance the KRG’s objectives through legislative and policy initiatives.
• Collaborate with other departments within the KRG Representation Office to ensure a cohesive approach to U.S. government relations.
• Communication and Reporting:
• Draft talking points, policy papers, and other materials for use in Congressional outreach.
• Report regularly to the KRG Representative to the United States on activities, outcomes, and developments related to Congressional affairs.
• Maintain accurate records of meetings, communications, and legislative activities.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, public policy, law or a related field. A Master’s or Law degree is a plus.
• Experience:
• Must have prior work experience on Capitol Hill, either in a Member’s office or relevant committee staff. 
• Significant experience working in government relations, legislative affairs, or a related field. Prior experience in a legislative capacity at a government agency, or corporate government affairs department will be considered.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing legislative strategies to achieve policy objectives.
• Proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with members of Congress, congressional staff, and relevant stakeholders.
• Familiarity with Middle Eastern politics and the Kurdish issue is highly desirable.
• Skills:
• Strong understanding of the legislative process and U.S. government structure.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop effective advocacy strategies.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Other Requirements:
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

o   This position is not eligible for remote work. Candidates must be able to work on-site in Washington D.C. during regular business hours.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a list of references to samantha.giudice@us.gov.krd. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.