Government Relations & External Affairs Specialist

Why join our team?

With a mission that spans the globe, the USO provides a rewarding and fulfilling work environment. Our team is exceptional, and we offer generous paid time off, including volunteer days and military leave. We have a remarkable 401k match, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for training and education reimbursement. Our team members are passionate about putting the mission first, and we have a lot of fun while doing it. Working for the USO isn't just a job – it's a calling, and we believe in doing what you love and loving what you do.

A Certified Great Place to Work®

Don’t just take our word for it—our people have spoken. According to the Great Place to Work® 2025–2026 survey:

• 96% feel good about how we support the community
• 94% are proud to tell others they work at the USO
• 92% say their work has special meaning—it’s not “just a job”
• 91% felt welcomed from day one
• Over 88% agree all employees are treated fairly, regardless of race or gender

The Government Relations & External Affairs Specialist supports the execution of the organization’s government relations and external affairs strategy by assisting in building and maintaining relationships with government stakeholders, supporting legislative outreach efforts, and coordinating events and engagements that advance the organization’s mission and public profile. Working under the direction of the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs, and in support of the Manager of Policy Engagement and Advocacy, this role contributes to lobbying initiatives, assists in monitoring relevant public policy developments, prepares briefing and outreach materials, and collaborates across departments to support government relations programs and events.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential Duties)

• Support the cultivation and maintenance of relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, executive branch agencies, state and local government offices, and other key stakeholders to advance organizational priorities.
• Assist in the implementation of lobbying and outreach initiatives aligned with organizational goals and legislative priorities, under the guidance of the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs and within federal lobbying guidelines.
• Assist the Manager, Policy Engagement and Advocacy in tracking, monitoring, and researching public policy issues of interest to the organization
• Draft and coordinate communications materials such as correspondence, briefing memos, and background materials for meetings with various government stakeholders.
• Coordinate logistics for in person and virtual meetings, briefings, webinars, and events involving government officials and senior organizational leadership, including scheduling, registration, and follow up.
• Support the planning and execution of events and programs designed to increase awareness of the organization among government and public sector audiences.
• Serve as a point of contact for internal teams working with the government relations department on a myriad of projects or programs
• Assist with the preparation of periodic lobbying, compliance, and activity reports, and support coordination with external consultants as directed.
• Contribute to the engagement and coordination of advisory bodies or councils, including assisting with meeting preparation, communications, and follow up activities.
• Track lobbying efforts and send quarterly reports to the Senior Director of Government Relations and External Affairs for submission.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Specifications

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in government relations, public policy, advocacy, or a related area.
• Working knowledge of the federal legislative process and basic understanding of budgeting and appropriations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, accurate, and audience appropriate materials.
• Ability to conduct research, analyze policy issues, and prepare concise briefing materials.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders across varying levels and functions.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, virtual meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams), and basic database or tracking tools. Experience with Canva or other creative software is a bonus.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Demonstrated adaptability, initiative, and willingness to learn in a fast paced and evolving environment.
• Must be a strong advocate of the USO’s mission.

Details

• This position is located in Arlington, VA. Preference will be given to local candidates within commuting distance to the location.
• Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration.
• Background check – education, criminal and driving required.
• The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.

If that’s not enough to convince you, here are some direct quotes from employees:

• The organization truly cares about the people who work here.
• There is great consideration given and extended in the following areas: organizational core values for all, work-life balance, impact we can actually see (and even experience as a staff member- the feeling of making an impact is priceless), autonomy with respect to current position within the organization.
• Everyone is friendly and easy to talk to. We collaborate well together and share ideas and interests to create fun activities for our overall goal in the community. I couldn't think of a better organization to work for.
• The mission alone provides a positive and meaningful purpose, where people should want to work and be a part of. Most of the people who work for the USO and volunteer for the USO have giving hearts and want to make a difference. This also makes the organization a place where people would want to work.
• The mission and opportunities to make a Difference are amazing. There is no doubt that the USO is one of the most forward-facing, frontline serving nonprofits that I know of.

Apply today. Join the mission. Join Team USO.