Launch Your Career in International Trade with the USTR

Are you looking to play a pivotal role in shaping the economic future of the United States? The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is currently hiring a Trade Policy Research Coordinator. This position offers a rare chance to work within the Executive Office of the President to influence global trade outcomes, support international negotiations, and advise high-level officials.

Job Responsibilities

As a Research Coordinator, your role is the backbone of informed decision-making. You will be responsible for:

Data Synthesis: Reviewing complex trade data and industry trends to identify emerging challenges.
Policy Support: Drafting and editing briefing materials, reports, and Congressional correspondence.
Strategic Coordination: Working across departments to ensure leadership has the necessary data to formulate U.S. negotiating positions.
Operational Support: Managing administrative protocols to ensure high-level meetings and objectives are met.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria by the closing date:

Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level.
Education: A Master’s degree or higher can be used to qualify at the GS-09/11 levels.
Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Qualifications Comparison Table

Grade Level	Education/Experience Requirement
GS-09	1 year specialized experience OR Master's Degree
GS-11	1 year specialized experience OR PhD/3 years grad school
GS-12	1 year specialized experience (no degree equivalent substitution)

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $133,142 per year, depending on the grade level and experience. Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Participation in the FERS pension plan and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Premium health insurance options.
Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
Professional development opportunities in a unique policy-making environment.

How to Apply

Prepare a federal-style resume, keeping it strictly to two pages.
Apply via the USAJOBS portal.
Complete the assessment questionnaire thoroughly.
Upload all supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s.

This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact on national policy. If you have the research skills, analytical rigor, and passion for global economics, we encourage you to submit your application before the September 23, 2026, deadline.

Why This Trade Policy Research Coordinator Job Matters

Shape the future of international trade policy by joining the Executive Office of the President at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

Trade Policy Research Coordinator Job Overview

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking a detail-oriented Trade Policy Research Coordinator to support critical trade and investment initiatives. This role involves analyzing global economic trends, drafting policy briefs for senior officials, and coordinating research across various offices within the Executive Office of the President. Ideal candidates will possess strong analytical skills, a background in international relations or economics, and the ability to thrive in a high-stakes, fast-paced policy environment.

Requirements for Trade Policy Research Coordinator

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must meet time-in-grade requirements for current or former federal employees.
Must possess one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Must pass a rigorous background investigation for Top Secret security clearance.
Must submit a complete application package, including a 2-page resume, by the closing date.
Must undergo mandatory drug screening.
Ability to read, write, and speak a relevant foreign language is highly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications for Trade Policy Research Coordinator

Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field such as economics, international relations, or public policy.
Demonstrated proficiency in a critical foreign language (e.g., Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish, French, Korean).
Proven track record of preparing Congressional testimony, decision memoranda, or high-level briefing materials.
Experience coordinating analytical efforts across multi-disciplinary teams.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Eligibility for telework programs, as permitted by office policy.

💡 How to Apply Trade Policy Research Coordinator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Trade Policy Research Coordinator Job

Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to create a federal-style resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Review your application package for accuracy and submit before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on September 23, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Adhere strictly to the 2-page limit; only the first two pages of your resume will be reviewed.
Quantify your experience by including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
Clearly link your past experience to the duties described in the job announcement to ensure SBEs can easily identify your qualifications.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary federal formatting requirements are met.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required for this role?

Yes, this position is classified as Critical-Sensitive and requires a Top Secret security clearance.

Can I submit my resume via email?

No, all applications must be submitted through the official online portal. Submissions via mail or email will not be accepted.

What happens if I submit more than two pages for my resume?

The review panel will only consider the first two pages. Ensure your most relevant experience is featured prominently at the beginning.

Can I apply if I don't have a PhD?

Yes, you can qualify for certain levels based on a combination of graduate education and professional experience.

What is the significance of the 2-page resume limit?

To ensure fair assessment, the panel only reviews the first two pages. Please prioritize your most relevant experience.

Job from Office Of The U.S. Trade Representative

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is the primary agency responsible for developing and coordinating U.S. international trade policy. Operating under the Executive Office of the President, the USTR team works to open foreign markets, enforce trade agreements, and ensure that global trade serves the interests of American workers, businesses, and farmers. Working here means engaging with the most significant economic issues facing the nation today.