Federal Agency Relations Manager

The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) develops and delivers collaborative solutions to global ocean challenges. We are dedicated to the resilience of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it. To learn more, visit gmri.org.

The Manager of Federal Agency Relations advances GMRI’s mission by cultivating strategic relationships with federal science and research agencies and positioning GMRI as a trusted partner in addressing national research priorities. This role focuses on proactive engagement with agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Department of Energy (DOE), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other mission-relevant offices to inform funding priorities, shape emerging research opportunities, and increase GMRI’s visibility and competitiveness for federal support. This role will also strategize on how to engage with agencies that have not yet funded GMRI (e.g., Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Transportation (DOT)).

Serving as a key external-facing member of GMRI’s Sponsored Projects Office, the Manager helps develop and implement strategies that align federal agency interests with GMRI’s scientific strengths, facilities, and expertise. The role works closely with the Research Development Manager (RDM) to translate agency funding priorities into competitive grant proposals, and collaborates with senior leadership, program leads, and research staff to support coordinated, high-impact engagement with federal partners.

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, communications, marine science, environmental science, engineering, or a related field.
3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in federal relations, government affairs, science policy, research development, or a related role.
Demonstrated understanding of the federal research funding ecosystem, including competitive grant and cooperative agreement processes.
Proven experience building and maintaining professional relationships with federal agency staff or leadership.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific or technical concepts for diverse audiences.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across scientific, administrative, and leadership teams.

Preferred

Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D) in a relevant field.
Prior experience working within a federal science agency or in a role closely interfacing with federal agencies.
Experience in a nonprofit research organization, academic institution, or science-based organization.
Familiarity with agencies such as NSF, NOAA, NASA, or related mission-driven federal offices.

Work Environment

This position may be based at GMRI headquarters in Portland, Maine, or in a Washington, D.C.–area location, with regular travel as needed.
Travel to federal agencies, partner institutions, conferences, and GMRI facilities is expected.
The role requires flexibility, discretion, and sound judgment in a dynamic federal policy and funding environment.

Salary Range: $90,000- $100,000

Tagged as: Law/Policy