Application Guide
How to Apply for Manager, Government Affairs
at Federation of American Scientists
🏢 About Federation of American Scientists
The Federation of American Scientists is a unique nonpartisan organization that bridges the gap between scientific expertise and public policy, focusing on national security, emerging technologies, and global challenges. Unlike traditional think tanks, FAS combines deep technical knowledge with practical policy implementation, working directly with government stakeholders to translate evidence-based research into actionable solutions. This makes it an ideal workplace for those passionate about making science accessible and influential in government decision-making.
About This Role
As Manager of Government Affairs at FAS, you will be the linchpin between scientific research and policy action, responsible for building coalitions, gathering intelligence, and shepherding policy ideas through legislative and executive pathways. This role directly impacts how science informs national policy by mobilizing allies, breaking down silos across teams, and training staff to become effective policy entrepreneurs. Your work will ensure that sound scientific ideas translate into implemented government solutions.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with intelligence gathering on Capitol Hill developments, followed by coalition meetings with executive branch stakeholders to advance a science policy agenda. You could spend the afternoon coaching staff on advocacy strategies, refining lobbying approaches based on new insights, and networking to strengthen partnerships across government branches—all while ensuring transparent systems keep the team aligned on common goals.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Federation of American Scientists Is Looking For
- Has 5+ years in policy engagement with 1–3 years specifically on Capitol Hill, in the Executive Branch, or in government-affairs roles, demonstrating hands-on experience with legislative/regulatory processes.
- Possesses exposure to science & technology policy domains (e.g., AI, biosecurity, climate tech) and can articulate how to advance such policies in a government context.
- Is a proven policy entrepreneur who can point to specific examples of turning ideas into action via Congressional or Executive Branch pathways, with minimal oversight.
- Excels at stakeholder management and coalition-building, with a track record of mobilizing diverse allies across government branches to support policy agendas.
📝 Tips for Applying to Federation of American Scientists
Highlight specific examples of 'policy entrepreneurship' in your resume—describe a time you shepherded a policy idea from concept to implementation via legislative or executive action, quantifying results if possible.
Tailor your application to FAS's nonpartisan, science-driven mission by emphasizing how you've built credibility across political divides in previous roles, especially in science/tech policy areas.
Demonstrate your network within the executive and legislative branches by mentioning specific relationships or collaborations (without breaching confidentiality) that show you can cultivate meaningful partnerships.
Showcase your ability to 'discern signal from noise' in policy intelligence by describing a situation where you refined advocacy strategies based on gathered insights.
Include experience with training or coaching staff in policy/political operations, as this role involves developing team skills toward becoming more effective operators.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Explain your passion for bridging science and policy, referencing FAS's mission and how your background in science/tech policy domains aligns with their work.", 'Provide a concrete example of your policy entrepreneurship—detail how you turned an idea into action via Congressional or Executive Branch pathways, highlighting outcomes.', 'Describe your approach to coalition-building and stakeholder management, emphasizing experience across both the legislative and executive branches.', 'Articulate how you would steward transparent systems and break down silos at FAS to advance common policy goals, based on past successes.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review FAS's recent policy reports and initiatives (e.g., on AI, biosecurity, or nuclear issues) to understand their current focus areas and how this role might contribute.
- → Explore FAS's nonpartisan stance and how they engage with both Congress and the Executive Branch—note specific projects or partnerships mentioned in their public materials.
- → Look into the backgrounds of FAS leadership and government affairs team members on LinkedIn or their website to gauge the organization's culture and expertise.
- → Study recent legislative or executive actions related to science and technology policy that FAS has commented on or influenced, to contextualize their advocacy work.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without tailoring it to FAS's science-driven, nonpartisan mission and the specific policy entrepreneurship focus of this role.
- Failing to provide concrete examples of experience in Hill, Executive Branch, or government-affairs roles, or being vague about your 5+ years in policy engagement.
- Overlooking the importance of coalition-building and stakeholder management—applicants who emphasize solo achievements without demonstrating collaborative skills may not fit the team-oriented culture.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Federation of American Scientists!