Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Manager, AI Safety and Security Policy

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 critical national security and technology issues. Working here offers the opportunity to influence high-stakes AI policy at the intersection of government, academia, and civil society, with a legacy of impactful research dating back to its founding by Manhattan Project scientists.

About This Role

This Senior Manager role involves driving tangible policy change on AI safety and security by identifying strategic opportunities, producing rigorous analysis for policymakers, and leading a team to develop implementable solutions. You'll directly influence how the U.S. addresses emerging AI risks while mentoring staff and engaging with key stakeholders across government and technical communities.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing emerging AI safety research, then mentor a junior analyst on policy brief development, followed by drafting targeted recommendations for an upcoming congressional hearing. The afternoon could involve stakeholder meetings with technical experts and government officials to refine policy proposals, then reviewing project timelines before preparing for a public briefing on AI risk management frameworks.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Federation of American Scientists Is Looking For

  • Has 6+ years of hybrid experience combining policy work (think tank/government) with technical understanding of AI safety domains like frontier AI risks or AI-CBRN weapons integration
  • Demonstrates proven 'policy entrepreneurship' with specific examples of identifying and capitalizing on legislative or regulatory windows for impact
  • Can point to published policy analysis that successfully influenced decision-makers on technical security topics
  • Has experience managing teams while maintaining hands-on policy development and stakeholder engagement

📝 Tips for Applying to Federation of American Scientists

1

Highlight specific AI safety/security policy areas you've worked on (e.g., 'In my work on AI biosecurity at X organization, I developed Y framework that influenced Z policy discussion')

2

Include concrete metrics about policy impact (e.g., 'My analysis on AI verification was cited in 3 congressional briefings and led to a $Y million appropriation')

3

Demonstrate understanding of FAS's unique position by referencing their specific projects or publications on AI safety

4

Show how you've translated technical AI concepts for policymakers with examples of briefings, testimony, or legislative language you've drafted

5

Emphasize both your individual policy analysis skills AND your team management experience, as this role requires both

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with AI safety/security policy domains mentioned in requirements (frontier AI, CBRN, cybersecurity)', "Examples of successfully identifying and acting on 'policy windows' for maximum impact", "How you've mentored staff while maintaining high-quality policy output", "Why FAS's nonpartisan, science-based approach aligns with your policy philosophy"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → FAS's recent AI safety publications and policy recommendations (check their website and staff publications)
  • → The organization's history and unique position as a bridge between scientists and policymakers
  • → Current FAS projects and partnerships related to AI safety and security
  • → How FAS engages with different stakeholders (Congress, executive agencies, civil society)

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through a specific policy window you identified and how you capitalized on it
2 How would you develop a policy intervention on a current AI safety issue like frontier model evaluations or AI in critical infrastructure?
3 Describe your approach to mentoring junior staff on complex technical policy topics
4 How do you balance rigorous analysis with the need for timely policy recommendations?
5 What FAS publications or positions on AI safety have influenced your thinking?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic AI policy experience without specific safety/security focus
  • Focusing only on technical AI skills without policy implementation examples
  • Not demonstrating understanding of FAS's nonpartisan, evidence-based approach
  • Failing to show both individual contributor AND management capabilities

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Federation of American Scientists!

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