We’re Hiring – Join Our Team!

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is seeking a Manager/Director of Government Affairs to help shape national fire service policy and advocate for our nation’s first responders. Join a fun, mission-driven team making a real impact in Washington, D.C. You’ll work with Congress, federal agencies, and fire service leaders to advance policies that strengthen public safety.

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience (expected range: $75,000-$95,000), along with a benefits package including healthcare with covered premium, retirement plan with 3% match, paid time off, sick leave, and federal holidays. 

Office Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Job Title: Manager/Director of Government Affairs

Organization: Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI)

Location: Remote (but must be located in the DC Metro Area)

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

About CFSI:

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as a liaison between the U.S. fire service and the federal government, providing policy analysis and advocacy on issues critical to the fire service. CFSI works to improve public safety, strengthen fire service resources, and advance policies that promote the welfare of first responders and the communities they serve.

Position Overview:

The Manager/Director of Government Affairs is responsible for working with the CFSI National Advisory Committee (NAC) to develop and implement the Institute’s legislative and policy agenda. This role is critical in advancing CFSI’s advocacy efforts and ensuring that the unified voice of the fire service is heard and acted upon in federal policymaking. The Manager/Director will work closely with members of Congress, congressional staff, federal agency officials, the NAC representatives, and key stakeholders to drive policies that enhance the safety, resources, and operational effectiveness of the fire service. CFSI is primarily a remote work environment, but the Government Affairs Manager/Director must be located in the Washington D.C. area to fulfil duties for CFSI’s annual conference and attend meetings on Capitol Hill, with federal agencies, and with partner organizations as needed. Title and salary commensurate with experience. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Advocacy and Lobbying:
  • Develop and execute CFSI’s government affairs strategy to advance the organization’s legislative and regulatory priorities.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key congressional committees, caucuses, federal agencies, and congressional offices.
  • Represent CFSI in meetings with lawmakers, federal agency officials, and other key stakeholders to promote fire service issues.

• Legislative Tracking and Analysis:
  • Monitor and analyze proposed federal legislation, regulations, and policies related to fire service funding, equipment, training, and public safety.
  • Provide regular updates on the status of key legislative efforts and emerging issues that impact the fire service.

• Coalition Building, Stakeholder Engagement, and Communications:
  • Foster relationships with other fire service organizations (including the 38 organizations serving on the CFSI National Advisory Committee), outside groups, and advocacy coalitions. This includes conducting monthly policy calls and managing participation in other working groups.
  • Create social media and public relations content to communicate key fire service issues to the public and policymakers.

• CFSI Events and Educational Programs:
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of CFSI’s annual Fire and Emergency Services Dinner and Symposium and other educational events.
  • Organize and lead CFSI’s advocacy events, training sessions, and policy briefings for members of Congress and their staff.
  • Prepare educational materials and presentations for CFSI leadership, fire service professionals, and policymakers.

• Other Duties As Required
  

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree required. A degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Government, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience:
  • Substantial experience in government, government relations, public policy, or advocacy, with specific experience working effectively with members of Congress, federal agencies, and other government stakeholders.
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong understanding of the legislative process and federal policymaking.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and communicate complex policy ideas clearly.
  • A self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to represent CFSI effectively in high-level meetings and public forums.
    

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to [email protected] with the title “Government Affairs Position.”

The Manager/Director of Government Affairs role at CFSI offers an exciting opportunity to influence key policy issues and advocate for the fire service community on a national stage. If you are passionate about public safety, have a strong background in government affairs, and are ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply.