Policy/Research Analyst

FedWriters is seeking a Policy/Research Analyst in Silver Spring, MD to support NOAA’s Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing and Ocean Acidification Programs. The role involves policy analysis, interagency coordination, and reporting to aid federal decision-making regarding ocean conditions. Candidates should have a relevant bachelor's degree and two years of experience. This full-time position is primarily on-site, with potential for authorized telework.
About the position

Are you interested in helping shape national and international efforts to understand and respond to changing ocean conditions? This role offers the opportunity to support NOAA’s Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing (GOMO) and Ocean Acidification Programs by contributing to policy analysis, interagency coordination, and reporting that directly informs decision-making at the federal level. As a Policy/Research Analyst, you will work alongside NOAA scientists, program leaders, and partners across the U.S. Government and the international community to help track research investments, support congressionally mandated reporting, and advance collaborative efforts that protect ocean ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. FWI has been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Washington Post in 2024 and 2025, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.
Work Schedule and Location: On-Site: This full-time on-site position will work Monday through Friday at NOAA OAR’s Headquarters located at SSMC3, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, 20910. Telework may be authorized.

Responsibilities
• Support the development and coordination of congressionally mandated reports, including those required under the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring (FOARAM) Act
• Provide policy analysis and program coordination support for ocean acidification, ocean observing, and climate research initiatives
• Support interagency coordination, including engagement with the Interagency Working Group on Ocean Acidification (IWG-OA) and related advisory bodies
• Draft and edit briefing materials, reports, summaries, and talking points for NOAA leadership and external stakeholders
• Track and document program activities, milestones, and deliverables across GOMO and OAP portfolios
• Assist with Research-to-Operations (R2O) tracking and documentation, including readiness level monitoring
• Support grants and portfolio management activities, including:
• Tracking Letters of Intent (LOIs) and proposals
• Supporting peer review processes
• Monitoring funded projects using NOAA’s Grants Online system
• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, document meeting minutes, and track action items
• Support international coordination activities, including engagement with organizations such as GOA-ON, IOC-UNESCO, and other partners
• Respond to ad hoc data calls and information requests from NOAA leadership and partners
• Maintain organized program documentation and collaboration tools (e.g., Google Docs, Sheets, and presentations)

Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, environmental policy, marine science, oceanography, environmental science, international relations, or a related field
• 2 years of experience supporting policy analysis, program coordination, reporting, or stakeholder engagement for government or research programs
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting reports and briefing materials
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and coordinate across diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace tools

Nice-to-haves
• Familiarity with NOAA, OAR, or other federal science or environmental programs
• Knowledge of ocean acidification, ocean observing systems, climate science, or marine policy
• Experience supporting interagency or international coordination
• Experience with federal grants management or reporting requirements
• Prior experience supporting congressionally mandated reporting efforts

Benefits
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Time Off