Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Manager, Government Capacity

at Federation of American Scientists

🏢 About Federation of American Scientists

The Federation of American Scientists is a unique nonpartisan organization that bridges science, technology, and public policy to address critical national challenges. Unlike traditional think tanks, FAS combines deep technical expertise with practical policy implementation, working directly with government agencies to improve capacity and effectiveness. Working here offers the opportunity to influence real-world government operations while collaborating with leading scientists and policy experts.

About This Role

As Senior Manager of Government Capacity, you'll lead initiatives to strengthen government institutions through policy analysis, coalition building, and strategic project implementation. This role is impactful because you'll directly shape how government agencies function, identify reform opportunities, and build networks of organizations working on democratic institution reform. You'll transition from collaborating with FAS leadership to taking increasing ownership of government capacity projects.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve morning strategy sessions with the Director on upcoming government capacity projects, followed by drafting policy analysis on emerging reform opportunities. Afternoons could include coalition-building calls with partner organizations and reviewing project implementation plans, while evenings might involve preparing for upcoming meetings with government stakeholders or editing colleagues' policy briefs for publication.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Federation of American Scientists Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years of hybrid experience combining policy analysis (think tank/academia) with practical implementation (government/philanthropy/industry)
  • Demonstrates specific expertise in either government capacity building (like civil service reform, agency modernization) OR public dialogue curation on democratic institution reform
  • Shows proven ability to identify and act on 'policy windows' - moments when reform is politically feasible - with concrete examples
  • Possesses exceptional writing skills with published policy analysis that balances rigor with accessibility for diverse audiences

📝 Tips for Applying to Federation of American Scientists

1

Highlight specific government capacity projects you've led or contributed to, quantifying impact where possible (e.g., 'increased agency efficiency by X%' or 'built coalition of Y organizations')

2

Include 2-3 writing samples that demonstrate both rigorous analysis and persuasive communication about government reform topics

3

Research and reference specific FAS government capacity initiatives in your application, showing you understand their current work

4

Emphasize your 'policy entrepreneurship' approach with examples of how you've identified and capitalized on unexpected opportunities

5

Demonstrate your coalition-building skills by describing specific relationships you've developed across think tanks, government, and civil society

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with government capacity building or democratic institution reform, citing concrete projects and outcomes', "Examples of identifying and acting on 'policy windows' where you achieved impact through timely analysis or action", "Your approach to coalition building across different sectors (government, think tanks, philanthropy) and how you'd apply this at FAS", "Why FAS's unique blend of scientific expertise and policy implementation appeals to you for government capacity work"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review FAS's recent government capacity publications and projects on their website, noting specific initiatives you could contribute to
  • → Study the backgrounds of FAS leadership and senior advisors in government capacity work to understand their approach and priorities
  • → Research current government capacity challenges being discussed in policy circles that align with FAS's mission
  • → Understand FAS's unique position at the intersection of science/technology and policy, and how this informs their government capacity work

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you identified a 'policy window' for government reform and how you capitalized on it
2 How would you approach building a coalition around a specific government capacity challenge FAS is currently facing?
3 Walk us through your process for turning complex policy analysis into actionable recommendations for government officials
4 What specific government capacity areas do you think are most ripe for reform in the current political climate?
5 How do you balance rigorous, evidence-based analysis with the need for timely, actionable policy recommendations?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic statements about 'wanting to make a difference' without specific government capacity expertise or examples
  • Focusing only on policy analysis without demonstrating implementation experience or coalition-building skills
  • Showing unfamiliarity with FAS's specific government capacity work or their unique science-policy approach

📅 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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