Job Description

Associate Director, Federal Relations, Washington, DC

The Opportunity

The Associate Director for Federal Relations will work with the Senior Director of Federal Relations to represent Cornell University and further the university's interests with the legislative and executive branches of the federal government. Contribute to establishing Cornell's presence in Washington, DC on a wide variety of topics and issues of importance to Cornell and the higher education sector. Research, monitor, analyze and respond strategically to pending legislative and regulatory proposals that affect the higher education sector. Represent Cornell at meetings on Capitol Hill, at federal government agencies, with higher education associations, and other professional organizations and within coalitions. Assume responsibility for program initiatives in relevant issue areas. Inform, advise, strategize and guide Cornell audiences (senior staff, deans, directors, chairs, faculty, and administrators) on issues related to federal programs, policies, and initiatives that may affect or engage the university's research, education, and outreach roles.

There will be periodic requirements for work during evening hours and on the weekends. Some travel is necessary.

This is a full-time hybrid position located in Washington, DC. The successful candidate will spend at least three days a week in the Washington, DC office. Fully remote work out of state or the region is not an option for this role .

Compensation: The position will be offered at between $126,000 - $142,000/annual and will be based on the final candidate's skills and experience.

Key Responsibilities

These include, but are not limited:

• Act as advocate and lobbyist for university interests by strategizing, analyzing and responding to legislative and executive proposals that may affect Cornell University. Help develop and implement strategies to protect, advance and enhance Cornell's reputation with policy makers at all levels. Anticipate and respond to emerging issues that impact the university and its education, research, and outreach missions.
• Develop and maintain relationships with campus stakeholders at all levels to understand university priorities in relation to federal legislative, regulatory, and funding opportunities. Develop strategic relationships with federal officials, other campuses, NGOs, and other constituencies to represent Cornell's interests to the federal legislative and executive branches of government.
• Facilitate regular communication between Federal Relations Office and campus stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain relationships, including leadership positions, in key higher education associations, professional societies, and other external partners

What You Need

Bachelor's degree and 5-7 years of experience working on Capitol Hill or at a federal government agency, lobbying and/or working with government officials, or equivalent combination.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to engage, persuade and influence people at all levels.
• A thorough understanding of the federal legislative, regulatory and/or investigative processes and experience working with federal officials.
• Demonstrated success in legislative, regulatory or investigative activity, government or community relations and project management.
• Individual must be highly motivated and must be able to utilize interpersonal skills to develop and foster successful relationships with government and university officials at all levels.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and strategic skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and exhibit sound judgment.
• Must be highly effective at juggling multiple tasks and projects.
• Proficient in use of current office computer technology and software programs.Some travel required.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion , and wellbeing.
• Ability to serve as an advocate for individuals of all ethnicities, genders, ages, and backgrounds.
• The successful candidate will be required to register as a federal lobbyist and will be responsible for personal compliance with federal lobbying laws and disclosure requirements.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree preferred. Knowledge of higher education and research issues. Familiarity with New York Congressional delegation and/or Cornell University.

Rewards and Benefits

No visa sponsorship or relocation assistance is available for this position.

University Job Title:

Assoc Dir Govt Relations

Job Family:

Administration

Level:

G

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Pay Range:

$111,517.00 - $136,299.00

Remote Option Availability:

Hybrid

Company:

Endowed

Contact Name:

Brenda Joly

Job Titles and Pay Ranges:

Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience

• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position

• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline

Union Positions

Current Employees:

Online Submission Guidelines :

Employment Assistance:

Notice to Applicants:

EEEO Statement:

Cornell University's history of diversity and inclusion encourages all students, faculty and staff to support a diverse and inclusive university in which to work, study, teach, research and serve. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified disabled individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act have rights in the application process and in employment under federal law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

2025-04-01

Job Tags

Full time, Temporary work, Local area, Remote job, Relocation package, Weekend work, Afternoon shift, 3 days per week,

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