The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission is a Congressional advisory commission, mandated to monitor, investigate, and report to Congress on the national security implications of the bilateral trade and economic relationship between the United States and the People's Republic of China. The Commission's full mandate is posted at https://www.uscc.gov/charter.
The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission is a Congressional advisory commission, mandated to monitor, investigate, and report to Congress on the national security implications of the bilateral trade and economic relationship between the United States and the People's Republic of China. The Commission's full mandate is posted at https://www.uscc.gov/charter.
Administratively Determined, Full-Time, Term-Appointed Position (The initial term of appointment is one year and is renewable by mutual agreement. The position is not covered by provisions of 5 USC that apply to Executive Branch employees regarding appointment, termination, competitive service selection, and pay related rules and regulations.)
Under the direction of the Director for Economics and Trade, the Research Assistant is responsible for supporting policy and issue analysis of China and U.S.-China relations, primarily in the fields of economics and trade.
1. Monitor, investigate, and assess developments relevant to the Economics and Trade Team's portfolio including, but not limited to, the topics identified in Requirements and Qualifications below.
2. Provide daily and weekly updates to Commissioners and staff on developments in the Commission's mandated research areas.
3. Assist in preparing detailed written and oral analyses and assessments of issues within the Economics and Trade Team's portfolio.
4. Provide support to Commission staff in researching and drafting assigned portions of the Commission's Annual Report or other research reports, and preparing testimony or other products by conducting research, drafting correspondence, writing, and fact checking.
5. Work with designated senior staff and team members to support hearing co-chairs in developing, planning, and executing Commission hearings.
6. Provide research, analytical, and other support on assigned issue areas within the team's portfolio for Commissioners and staff.
7. Attend seminars, meetings, and events on behalf of the Commission, and write memoranda to Commissioners and staff.
8. Conduct literature reviews, expert interviews, and other initial research to identify potential avenues for Commission research products and public hearings.
9. Provide substantive review on external contracted research reports.
10. Assist with developing and sustaining a professional network of China-focused processionals in the U.S. government, private sector, and academia.
Applicants must be eligible for a security clearance. Upon appointment, the selectee will be required to undergo a background investigation, and during the employment period may also be required to obtain and hold a Federal security clearance. An active clearance is not a prerequisite for applying for or initiating employment. All candidates must be available to work in-person in Washington, D.C.
1. Ability to present information clearly and concisely through both written and oral reports.
2. Research, analytical, and evaluative skills, including the ability to synthesize and analyze large amounts of disparate data on emerging and/or controversial issues.
3. Interest and knowledge, as demonstrated by relevant coursework or work experience, in at least two of the following areas:
Bachelor's degree or higher.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
The Commission will evaluate your cover letter, resume, and writing sample to assess your qualifications and experience. The Director of Economics and Trade, Executive Director, and appropriate staff will interview the top candidates. The Chairman and/or Vice Chairman may interview the final candidates. The final hiring decision will be made by the Executive Director.
Interviews will consist of two parts: 1) interviews with the Director of Economics and Trade, Executive Director, and appropriate staff; and 2) a writing test.
Cover letter, resume, and current writing sample.
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Submit a complete application package containing all of the below required documents in one PDF file via email to Opportunities@uscc.gov. Incomplete application packages or information not received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date will not be considered.
1) Cover letter, to include:
a. Position title
b. Vacancy number
c. Brief statement outlining your interest in the Commission and this position and how you heard about this position
d. Concise, point-by-point responses to the requirements and qualifications you meet
e. Your salary requirements
f. Name and contact information for two professional references
2) Resume
3) Current Writing Sample
The writing sample can be on any topic; writing relevant to the position being sought is preferred; writing and editing must be your own work and should not exceed 5 pages.
After submitting your application package, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application materials. Please note this email confirmation is not automated and may take 2-3 business days to receive. You will be contacted via email if we would like to schedule an interview or require additional information. All applicants will be notified once the position has been filled.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.