Foreign Affairs Specialist (Washington)

Job Title: Foreign Affairs Specialist
Job Code: CON113
Location: Washington, DC
Reports to: Program Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
Supervisory: No supervisory/management authority
Prepared Date: 10/14/2026
A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify.
This position requires an active Top Secret/SCI clearance.
Position Summary:
Provide expert operational and advisory support to senior IO/STA staff and policymakers on policy development within the assigned portfolio (e.g., meteorology, energy, fisheries, biodiversity, conservation, water, forestry)
Compensation & Benefits:
Starting Salary Range for Foreign Affairs Specialist: $121,785
Benefits That Set Us Apart
When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.
Highlights include:
• Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security
• Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage
• Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• Professional development, training, and certification support
• Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection
Because taking care of our employees isn’t just a promise, it’s part of who we are.
Benefits are subject to change and eligibility requirements apply.
Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities:
Includes the following:
• Engage with organizations including but not limited to: the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
• Coordinate with Department policymakers, other USG agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to assist with developing policies and strategies that ensure consistent articulation of U.S. positions.
• Prepare analytical reports, white papers, briefings, decision memoranda, and policy guidance documents addressing international environmental issues that impact USG foreign policy objectives.
• Monitor world events and developments throughout the UN system that may affect U.S. environmental policy; report findings to senior staff.
• Provide expert advice and support in compiling, analyzing, and presenting information, courses of action, and final recommendations for senior officials' use in the policy formulation process.
• Serve as IO/STA's initial point of contact for all incoming actions from departmental offices, U.S. Embassies and Posts, other USG agencies, international organizations, foreign governments, and the private sector on issues pertaining to the assigned portfolio.
• Prepare and delivery presentations to Department of State (DOS) and other USG officials.
• Prepare materials in response to Congressional taskings and inquiries.
• Monitor world events and nations' and UN organizations' reactions; anticipate potential policy problems; assess effects on U.S. interests; and ensure policy recommendations align with USG and departmental objectives.
• Research and develop information from diverse sources, including cables and diplomatic notes; draft, review, and coordinate papers for internal, external, and interagency meetings, as well as talking points for use with allies and partners.
• Advise senior officials on new approaches, initiatives, and impending problems; ensure political sensitivities and equities are incorporated into the Department's responses.
• Assist IO/PFO in the preparation of budget analyses and review of management practices in covered organizations and programs.
• Conduct overseas site visits as needed to collect information on problems and possible solutions in program implementation.
• Attend meetings and conferences with WMO and other relevant organizations.
• Serve on delegations to international organizations and UN bodies during deliberations on energy and environmental issues.
• Ensure U.S. participation in UN fora dealing with environmental issues satisfies U.S. policy priorities and legal requirements.
• Develop and maintain interagency contacts and regular communication with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOT), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), among others.
• Participate in interagency working groups to discuss U.S. positions and promote USG policy.
• Conduct studies, develop options, and prepare position papers for interagency consideration.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
No supervisory/management authority
Basic Qualifications:
• Master’s Degree or equivalent and one (1) year of relevant professional experience
OR
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent and two (2) years of relevant professional experience
• An active or ability to obtain a TOP SECRET/SCI Security Clearance
• Must be a US Citizen.
• This position requires an active Top Secret/SCI clearance.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
Work Environment:
Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled environment.
Company Information:
Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Cherokee Nation System Solutions LLC, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where it’s needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others won’t, and deliver where it counts. If that’s the kind of work you’re looking for, you’ve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.
#CherokeeFederal
Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.
Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
In compliance with Washington D.C.’s Wage Transparency Act, the estimated annual salary range for this position is $121,785 – $121,785. Actual compensation is based on qualifications and experience.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Cherokee Federal is a federal contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). As required by VEVRAA, we take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Protected veterans are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.
Cherokee Federal takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.
Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities or those with sincerely held religious beliefs. To request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at
This position is subject to pre-employment drug testing. Cherokee Federal maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
This position may be contingent upon the successful completion of a background investigation. The scope of the investigation will be commensurate with position requirements and applicable law.