The Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO) is seeking a qualified individual or organization to serve as its Policy Analyst. The Analyst will advance MARCO’s mission by informing MARCO on how its current and planned work is effectively communicated to Federal partners and others, and develop recommendations with the Executive Director on how MARCO’s work plan can meaningfully address federal Administration documents (for example, the Ocean Climate Action Plan), federal rulemakings, and other policies at the regional scale.
Background
MARCO is a Congressionally-recognized regional ocean partnership working on shared issues that benefit from interstate collaboration and coordinated problem-solving. Established in 2009 by the Governors of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, MARCO has identified four regional priorities for shared action to improve ocean health and contribute to the high quality of life and economic vitality of our region: coordinate the protection of important marine habitats, including sensitive and unique offshore areas; collaborate on a regional approach to support the sustainable development of renewable energy in offshore areas; prepare Mid-Atlantic communities for the impacts of climate change on coastal and ocean resources, and promote improvements in ocean water quality.
Qualifications
MARCO’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility includes the recognition that our work is best advanced by the contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Recruiting and mentoring team members to create an inclusive organization is a priority. MARCO encourages applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status, or other status protected by law.
MARCO encourages anyone with interest and relevant experience to apply. Preferred candidates will demonstrate the following qualifications:
- At least 7 years of experience in public policy, or a related role.
- Strong understanding of ocean or coastal policy.
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear and actionable insights.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organizations.
- Passion for ocean conservation and a commitment to MARCO’s mission of promoting the health and sustainability of the Mid-Atlantic’s ocean and coastal resources.
Key responsibilities include but are not necessarily limited to:
- Identify federal public comment opportunities and prepare responses to relevant proposed rulemakings, and Executive/Administration documents.
- Identify, review, and analyze relevant congressional legislation and policies, and recommend items or issues that may help MARCO advance its stated priorities.
- Advise the MARCO Executive Director and other MARCO Leadership on all relevant federal policy areas.
- Coordinate factual presentations that communicate MARCO’s performance and progress on its Congressionally-funded work to Members of Congress, federal decision-makers, and other key stakeholders.
Working Conditions and Compensation
The position is via contract with the Coastal States Stewardship Foundation (CSSF), MARCO’s fiscal agent. The incumbent must provide their own supplies and equipment including internet, laptop, and phone; reimbursement will be available for project- or meeting-specific supply costs. Some travel will be required. The incumbent must provide their own transportation – reimbursement will be provided for mileage, airfare, and other meeting-specific costs.
The compensation of this part-time contract will be $90,000 – $105,000 per year, contingent on funding, and commensurate with experience.
Location
This is a fully remote position, with preference given to applicants based in the Washington, DC area. Some travel is expected to meetings in the DC area and an annual meeting of MARCO, held within the Mid-Atlantic region.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample (2 page maximum) to admin@midatlanticocean.org with the subject, “Application – MARCO Policy Analyst.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. MARCO is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.
Join us at MARCO and contribute to our vital work in regional ocean planning and conservation. Be part of a team that is making a difference for our ocean and coastal communities.