Risk Mitigation Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Mid-Level

One position anticipated.

Project Summary:

The EAP Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Platform supports the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP), Office of Regional Assistance and Security Program (RASP), and other Department bureaus, embassies, consulates, field offices, and EAP operating units that manage or oversee foreign assistance programs. The task order provides demand-driven MEL, project design, strategic planning, performance monitoring, evaluation, data management, learning, training, third-party monitoring, infrastructure monitoring, and surge technical assistance across Washington, DC and the East Asia and Pacific region. The platform is designed to strengthen evidence-based decision-making, align programming with Department of State priorities and 18 FAM 301.4 requirements, and deliver timely, high-quality services through close coordination with the COR, EAP program offices, Activity Managers, posts, and technical teams.

Position Summary:

The Risk Mitigation Subject Matter Expert strengthens EAP's ability to identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate risks in foreign assistance programming. The SME develops practical risk frameworks and oversight tools, verifies compliance, and advises EAP staff and partners on risks involving fraud, waste, abuse, diversion of funds, and external interference.

This position is contingent upon award.

General Duties and Responsibilities:
• Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in program design, implementation, monitoring, and oversight, including in fragile or conflict-affected environments.
• Assess risks related to fraud, waste, abuse, diversion of funds, external interference, programmatic compliance, and financial controls.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation plans, frameworks, tools, methodologies, and monitoring approaches that address identified vulnerabilities.
• Monitor implementation of risk mitigation measures through site visits, desk reviews, audits, document reviews, and other verification activities.
• Prepare risk assessment methodologies, mitigation plans, findings, recommendations, and other clear decision-support products.
• Provide technical advice to EAP on risk management, compliance, accountability, and oversight best practices.
• Provide training and technical assistance to EAP staff and implementing partners on risk management and oversight practices.
• Coordinate with MEL, data, infrastructure, and project management personnel to integrate risk considerations across assignments.

Location and Travel:

Washington, DC; Continental United States and East Asia Pacific region, with international travel as required and pre-approved.

Requirements

Minimum Education and Experience
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent and at least five years of relevant professional experience, or a high school diploma and at least eight years of relevant professional experience.
• At least three years of professional experience in risk management, compliance, or oversight, with a focus on international development or foreign assistance programs.
• Demonstrated experience conducting risk assessments, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing oversight mechanisms.

Required Skills and Competencies:
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address complex risks.
• Proficiency in developing risk assessment frameworks, tools, methodologies, and mitigation plans.
• Knowledge of U.S. Government policies and regulations related to risk management and oversight.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and risk management software or tools.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines while producing accurate, timely, and professional deliverables.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with EAP program offices, U.S. embassies and consulates, partners, and dispersed technical teams.
• Knowledge of, or ability to complete required training on, 18 FAM 301.4 and Section 508 compliance.

Required Security Clearance:

The selected candidate must possess a SECRET personnel security clearance, or be able to obtain the required clearance before onboarding and contract performance, and maintain it as required for the assignment.

Working Conditions and Required Equipment

The incumbent will work in a professional office environment and will use the following equipment when working:
• Computer (laptop or desktop)
• Printer/Photocopier/Scanner/Fax
• Telephone
• Other equipment as required for the assignment

The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

This position description provides an overview of the major functions and requirements of the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of every duty and requirement. The employee's manager may assign other related duties within the general scope of the position.