Foreign Affairs Specialist

Job Title: Foreign Affairs Specialist
Location: Silver Spring, MD
Clearance Required: Public Trust Eligible


Job Description
IBSS is seeking a dedicated Foreign Affairs Specialist to support the NOAA Office of International Affairs, Trade, and Commerce (OIATC) in Silver Spring, MD. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact by addressing pressing global challenges, including marine mammal protection, bycatch reduction, and sustainable fisheries management.

We're looking for professionals with expertise in policy or resource management, particularly within the framework of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), who thrive in dynamic, collaborative environments. If you want to be part of a growing, employee- and mission-focused company driving meaningful change in marine and coastal resource management, we encourage you to apply!


Key Responsibilities:

• Assist OIATC in implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Import Provisions.
• Assist in the development of compliance materials to assist in capacity building with international partners
• Assist in the organization and execution of workshops, webinars, and teleconferences to inform and support international partners, trade partners, and the interested public in relation to implementation of the MMPA Import Provisions
• Provide advice and counsel to OIATC leadership and personnel on all aspects of efforts to support the implementation of and compliance with, the MMPA Import Rule, Seafood Import Monitoring Program, and other programmatic areas.
• Support multiple programs within OIATC, including but not limited to the International Trade Data System, Moratorium Protection Act, and other programs administered by the Office.
• Implementation of the MMPA Import Provisions that consists of the following:
  • Assist in prioritizing international information and compliance efforts.
  • Assist in the development of implementation and compliance materials.
  • Assist in the development of an international public outreach and engagement plan.
  • Coordinating and scheduling travel, logistics, and presentation materials associated with international outreach for regulatory implementation and compliance.
  • Acting as primary Point of Contact for implementation and compliance inquiries.
  • Attend international conferences, meetings, and workshops.
  • Other relevant duties and responsibilities as they may be assigned by the client or program manager.

Required Qualifications/Skills:

• MS/PhD in environmental science or associated discipline (e.g., biology, ecology, fisheries biology, marine biology, natural resource management, conservation biology).
• 5+ years experience in policy or resource management related to protected species and fishery management.
• Knowledge of bycatch issues, global fisheries, and understanding fishery and market interconnections.
• Knowledge and experience with global marine mammal populations and the MMPA Import Rule.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and comply with project deadlines
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Advanced professional writing skills and the ability to express both biological and regulatory concepts in plain language.

About IBSS Corp.

Since 1992, IBSS, a woman-owned small business, has provided transformational consulting services to the Federal defense, civilian, and commercial sectors. Our services include cybersecurity and enterprise information technology, environmental science and engineering (including oceans, coasts, climate, and weather), and professional management services.

Our approach is to serve our employees by investing in their growth and development. As a result, our employees bring greater capabilities and provide exceptional service to our clients. In addition to creating career development opportunities for our employees, IBSS is passionate about giving back to the community and serving the environment. We strive to leave something better behind for the next generation.

We measure our success by the positive impact we have on our employees, clients, partners, and the communities we serve. Our tagline, Powered by Excellence, is a recognition of the employees that make up IBSS and ensures we deliver results with quality, applying industry best practices and certifications.

IBSS offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage with a company-paid deductible, paid time off, federal holidays, a matching 401K plan, tuition/professional development reimbursement, and Flex-Spending (FSA)/Dependent Care Account (DCA) options.

IBSS is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Click https://www.eeoc.gov/poster to see that the EEO is the law. Please direct any inquiries to the HR Department email at HR@ibsscorp.com.

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to the Talent Acquisition department at Recruiting@ibsscorp.com