The Merck Animal Health Public Policy and Government Relations Coordinator is an exciting, full-time, hourly position supporting the U.S. and Canada business, requiring a one-year commitment in a hybrid work environment (3 days/week onsite) in Washington, D.C. This role is critical for the Public Policy team, providing added value through the coordination of activities, drafting communications, and supporting the execution of key policy issue areas. An interest in public policy and/or animal health is essential, as the team covers vital issues like animal welfare, One Health, sustainability, biotechnology, and reauthorization of key agricultural legislation. The coordinator will be deeply involved in policy review, stakeholder engagement, and strategic internal and external communications.
Responsibilities
- Review and analyze proposed and current legislation and regulation impacting animal health and the business.
- Coordinate team activities and manage aspects of meeting and event planning and partnership programs.
- Draft and distribute clear, concise, and timely business communications on priority policy issues.
- Assist in engaging with key external stakeholders, coalitions, and trade associations on priority issues.
- Participate in external meetings and events (including trade association meetings, briefings, etc.) and prepare detailed summaries for the policy team.
- Partner with the internal communications team to ensure essential policy resources are accessible to business colleagues.
- Ensure clear, concise, and timely communication flows between the policy team and the broader business on critical issues.
- Support the public policy team on a diverse array of projects and priorities, including those related to One Health, sustainability, and international trade.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or demonstrated experience in relevant discipline(s) including but not limited to communications, public policy, or animal science.
Experience
Required Skills:
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and writing skills.
- Highly proficient working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Demonstrated experience working effectively in a team environment.
- Ability to be highly organized, adapt to a changing environment, and work both independently and collaboratively.
- Demonstrates high ethical standards and strong attention to detail.
Preferred Skills:
- Interest in public policy, technology, and/or animal health.
- Proficiency in using professional social media platforms, such as LinkedIn.
- Familiarity with operating artificial intelligence (AI) models and programs (e.g., Microsoft CoPilot).
Additional Information
- This is an hourly full-time position located in Washington, D.C.
- Applicants must be available for a period of 1 year.
- The role is hybrid (3 days/week onsite), with a flexible schedule.