We are seeking a Political Specialist to join the Political and Economic Section of the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam. The role leads research, analysis, reporting, and advisory work on political, democracy, and governance developments in Tanzania. The position also builds relationships with government officials, civil society, academia, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to support Embassy engagement and political reporting.
Responsibilities
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Lead research, analysis, and reporting on political, democracy, and governance issues in Tanzania.
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Develop and maintain relationships with government officials, parliamentarians, civil society, religious leaders, academics, think tanks, and international organizations.
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Facilitate meetings and engagements between Embassy officials and key stakeholders.
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Monitor political, economic, governance, and media developments in Tanzania.
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Prepare analytical reports, briefing memos, diplomatic reporting cables, and meeting notes.
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Brief and advise Embassy leadership and U.S. Government stakeholders on political and governance developments.
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Coordinate Embassy engagement with the Parliament of Tanzania, particularly during parliamentary sessions.
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Draft diplomatic notes and maintain relevant biographical information on government officials.
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Interpret during official meetings and events when required.
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Support planning and execution of official meetings, events, and travel across Tanzania.
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Represent the Embassy at meetings, conferences, working groups, and other engagements.
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Advise on democracy and governance-related development assistance priorities.
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Support management of democracy and governance grants as a Grants Officer Representative.
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Support U.S. Government training and exchange programmes.
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Provide coverage for other Political and Economic Section portfolios when required.
Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree in Law, Political Science, International Relations, History, Economics, or a related field.
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Minimum 5 years of relevant professional experience in research, analysis, consulting, programme management, communications, or reporting.
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Relevant experience may come from politics, government, law, academia, journalism, development organizations, or international affairs.
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Fluent spoken, written, and reading proficiency in English.
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Fluent spoken, written, and reading proficiency in Swahili.
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Ability to translate between English and Swahili.
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Detailed knowledge of Tanzania’s political, economic, and social structures, institutions, history, foreign relations, and key political figures.
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Strong ability to develop and maintain professional stakeholder networks.
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Ability to synthesize complex information into concise written and oral reports.
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common digital devices.
