Program and Policy Analyst

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/ EDUCATION: There is no positive education requirement for this position. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. To qualify at the ZA-4 or GS-13 level: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZA-3 or GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following: Interpreting or applying policies, guidance, or regulation for coastal and ocean management programs; and Participating in developing or drafting policies, guidance, or directives for coastal or ocean programs or projects. This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service (NOS), Office for Coastal Management (OCM), with two vacancies in Silver Spring, MD. This position is also announced under vacancy number NOS OCM-26-12955280-DE, which is open to all US Citizens or Nationals. You must apply to both announcements if you want to be considered for both.

Position Details

• Job Title: Program and Policy Analyst
• Company / Organisation: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• Location: Silver Spring, Maryland
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Field / Industry: Data Science & Analytics
• Work Arrangement: On-site or hybrid - Silver Spring, Maryland

About This Opportunity

This full-time opportunity at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is an excellent opening for experienced professionals in the field of data science and analytics. The role is structured around an on-site or hybrid environment based in Silver Spring, Maryland and is designed for candidates who are ready to make a meaningful contribution from the moment they join.

Based in Silver Spring, Maryland, this role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with a local team in a structured professional environment. Candidates currently based in the area or open to relocation are strongly encouraged to apply.

Whether you are an established practitioner in data science and analytics or a highly skilled professional looking for your next challenge, this Program and Policy Analyst role offers the platform to apply your expertise in a real-world, results-oriented environment. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is looking for a candidate who can hit the ground running and add genuine value to the team.

Who Should Apply

This role is ideal for candidates who have a solid background in data science and analytics and a demonstrable track record of delivering high-quality results. You should possess quantitative reasoning, statistical thinking, and the ability to transform raw data into actionable insights. Experience working with data analysis frameworks, visualisation platforms, and advanced statistical or machine learning tools will be an advantage, though a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is equally valued.

Beyond technical or domain expertise, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is looking for someone who communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, and takes ownership of their work from start to finish. If you thrive in a professional environment and are passionate about the opportunity to turn complex datasets into strategic insights that drive smarter business decisions, we encourage you to apply.

Key Competencies for This Role

Successful candidates for the Program and Policy Analyst position at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will typically demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Domain expertise - a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in data science and analytics
• Problem-solving ability - the capacity to identify challenges, think critically, and implement practical solutions efficiently
• Communication skills - clear and professional communication with colleagues, stakeholders, and partners at all levels
• Self-management - strong time management and the ability to prioritise a varied workload while meeting deadlines
• Team collaboration - a collaborative and supportive approach to working alongside colleagues across departments or locations
• Adaptability - the ability to respond positively to change and thrive in a dynamic, evolving work environment

How to Apply

To apply for this Program and Policy Analyst position at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be taken directly to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application.

Before applying, please ensure that your CV or résumé is fully up to date and clearly highlights your experience and accomplishments in data science and analytics. If a cover letter is included or requested, tailor it specifically to this role and explain how your background, skills, and goals align with what National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is looking for in a Program and Policy Analyst.

All applications for this role are processed directly by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Career Nest facilitates the job discovery process and does not pre-screen or forward applications on behalf of employers. There are no fees for job seekers at any stage of the application process.

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