Compliance and Data Governance Specialist

Compliance and Data Governance Specialist - Department of State The Position

We are seeking driven, thoughtful candidates with expertise in CFR/FAM/NIST compliance and federal enforcement processes to support impactful initiatives for our Federal clients at the U.S. Department of State (DOS). As a Regulatory and Compliance Specialist with Censeo, you will support compliance and data governance efforts for a key Department of State program. You will work closely with DOS teams to ensure compliance with federal mandates and regulations.

• Serve as the primary compliance advisor for exchange program operations, interpreting regulatory requirements and translating them into implementable policies and controls
• Develop legal defensibility protocols to reinforce program integrity and withstand regulatory scrutiny
• Ensure full adherence to 22 CFR Part 62 and other applicable federal mandates
• Strengthen data governance and cybersecurity protocols, ensuring compliance with NIST standards, NARA, and federal security policies
• Establish and maintain audit‑ready documentation, including policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), system security plans, and compliance evidence
• Ensure program’s compliance framework aligns with OMB A-123, GAO, and Department of State security policies
• Coordinate and support OMB, GAO, Inspector General, and congressional inquiries, ensuring timely, accurate, and defensible responses
• Implement AI‑powered predictive analytics to assess sponsor risk and detect anomalies
• Establish secure data‑sharing protocols and compliance monitoring systems
• Train program staff, contractors, and partners on regulatory compliance, data governance, and records management responsibilities
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to develop realistic, innovative solutions to complex challenges
• Communicate findings and recommendations clearly through written reports and presentations
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, proactively identifying and mitigating delivery risks

At Censeo, we value unique perspectives and innovation. The following qualifications and experience are desired.

• BA/BS required in International Affairs, Information Systems, Information Security, Public Policy, or a closely related field. Master’s or JD preferred.
• 5‑10+ years of experience in regulatory compliance, legal risk management, data governance, and cybersecurity.
• Familiarity with compliance policy for federally regulated environments and with Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) (experience with 22 CFR Part 62 strongly preferred).
• Familiarity with data governance standards aligned with NIST cybersecurity standards, NARA records retention requirements, etc.
• Demonstrated experience supporting or working with federal agencies (Department of State strongly preferred).
• In‑depth knowledge of federal program oversight expectations and administrative law principles.
• Experience designing compliance frameworks that withstand regulatory, audit, and congressional scrutiny (including documentation standards, decision logs, and audit trails and records).
• Experience establishing compliance monitoring systems (including data access controls, role‑based permissions, or data classification and handling standards).
• Experience in international exchange, education, or mobility programs (preferred).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

Censeo Consulting Group is based in Washington D.C. We work in a hybrid setting with flexibility to work from home and in the office located in the heart of downtown.

• The salary…