International Fisheries Policy Advisor

*US Citizenship Required

*Onsite in Silver Spring, MD

*Proposal Effort, Position is Subject to Contract Award

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Think Tank is seeking an experienced International Fisheries Policy Advisor to support the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in advancing sustainable fisheries management, combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and promoting marine conservation. This role supports NMFS's statutory responsibilities under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), the Moratorium Protection Act, the Maritime SAFE Act, and related international fisheries programs, including engagement in Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) and bilateral/multilateral negotiations. The successful candidate will contribute expertise in fisheries policy, protected species conservation, and international ocean governance to strengthen U.S. leadership in sustainable global fisheries management.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collect, analyze, and prioritize information on IUU fishing, bycatch, shark catch, and protected species interactions to support U.S. international fisheries policy.

• Develop clear and concise briefing materials for NOAA officials, Congress, and interagency partners on fisheries management and conservation issues.

• Provide coordination and support for bilateral consultations, public engagements, and international negotiations, including RFMOs.

• Manage logistics and prepare presentation materials for meetings with U.S. government agencies, stakeholders, and foreign partners.

• Support preparation of the Biennial Report to Congress on International Fisheries Management, including coordination, drafting, and policy analysis.

• Attend international meetings, workshops, and interagency forums as needed.

• Advise office leadership on policy, regulatory, and compliance matters related to the MMPA, Maritime SAFE Act, SIMP, and other international fisheries management requirements.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: Advanced degree (Master's or higher) in international relations, environmental policy, marine science, natural resource management, or a related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 5+ years in policy or resource management related to protected species, international fisheries management, or ocean policy.

• Knowledge and Skills:

  • Strong understanding of IUU fishing, global fisheries governance, bycatch issues, and fishery/market interconnections.

  • Familiarity with the MMPA, Maritime SAFE Act, Moratorium Protection Act, SIMP, and/or regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs).

  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with the ability to translate technical and regulatory concepts into plain language.

  • Proven organizational and project management skills with experience coordinating multi-stakeholder or interagency initiatives.

  • Ability to work effectively across diverse teams, agencies, and international partners.