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FULL-TIME FAS STAFF
WASHINGTON, DC
$100,000 ‒ $120,000
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Artificial Intelligence Policy Specialist

The Opportunity

The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) seeks a Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Specialist to play a transformative role in shaping the direction of AI policy across the federal government. As AI technology continues to evolve and expand, the reach and impact of its execution spans to every sector, from national security and defense to social justice, health, economic development, and beyond. The ideal candidate will bring a unique blend of experience and expertise in tactical AI applications and strategic policy-making in order to continue to strengthen and scale the AI and Emerging Technologies portfolio at the Federation of American Scientists.

In this role, the Policy Specialist  will respond to the demands of today as well as anticipate, inspire, and shape the policies of tomorrow. Supporting the Emerging Technologies team, this position will engage in AI policy-related research, legislation, and initiatives, and help make connections across a wide variety of stakeholder groups inside and outside of the government. The ideal candidate will be able to contribute to thought leadership on AI-related issues on the national and international scale, as FAS continues to play an essential role in global technology policy development.

As part of our committed and visionary team, this role’s work will contribute to nurturing the equitable use of AI technologies, addressing their societal implications, and exploring innovative approaches to AI governance. This will require an expansive and inclusive perspective that thoroughly considers the numerous sectors affected by AI technologies. 

This candidate must possess  innovative thinking, strategic foresight, technical proficiency, and policy acumen. The ideal candidate will  balance deep technical understanding with policy expertise to help ensure that AI adoption serves the national and global community and is able to effectively address a vast array of challenges from national security concerns to social equity. 

What You Will Do (Core Responsibilities)

  • Manage comprehensive AI policy development, to include, but not limited to  issues ranging from national security to societal equity.
  • Provide expert technical advice on AI-related bills, regulations, and legislative initiatives.
  • Maintain a clear and updated understanding of global AI trends, driving the development of proactive and inclusive policy solutions.
  • Generate insightful policy ideas, drafts, and final products, facilitating both internal strategy development and external communication.
  • Support the Associate Director in delivering technical analysis and recommendations on key AI policy issues to senior leadership.
  • Collaborate across the broader FAS team to support integrated and informed policy efforts.
  • Oversee, mentor, and support any AI policy fellow joining FAS.
  • Organize and manage any AI policy accelerators run through the Day One Project.
  • Readily take on additional duties and responsibilities based on the needs of the organization.

Skills and Experience (Requirements)

  • Master’s degree in machine learning, natural language processing, computer science, or a related field, with a Ph.D. or equivalent preferred.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in AI policy, technology, and implementation, with broad exposure to a diverse set of issues and contexts.
  • Comprehensive understanding of AI terminology, principles, and applications.
  • Ability to effectively communicate complex information to a diverse range of audiences.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Deep understanding of federal legislative and policy decision-making processes.
  • Outstanding analytical and strategic thinking skills.
  • Experience in government or legislative outreach, with demonstrated effective communication and negotiation skills.
  • Proven ability to draft and analyze policy documents, technical reports, and legislative briefings.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and engage non-technical audiences.

Work Environment 

This position will be a hybrid role. Meaning that both remote and in-person work can be accommodated, generally two to three days per week on-site, and two to three days per week remote depending on the needs of the organization.

Salary Range

$100,000 – $120,000

Hiring Statement

Don’t check off every box? Apply anyway! Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every listed qualification. At FAS we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and developing new voices. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway – you might just be the right candidate.

The Federation of American Scientists is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Federation of American Scientists  prohibits discriminating against employees and job applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant.

FAS is looking to fill this position quickly. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Early submission will ensure your application receives full consideration.Apply for this position

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