American Samoa Election Office (ASEO)

Job Title: Chief Election Officer

Department/Agency: American Samoa Election Office (ASEO)

Closing Date: December 13, 2024

Type of Position: Political Appointee

Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public

Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $85,000 p.a.

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Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com

1. Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: American Samoa Election Office (ASEO)

2. Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.

3. Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.

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General Description

The Chief Election Officer (CEO) is a key leadership role within the American Samoa Government, tasked with overseeing the administration, regulation, and execution of all elections, voter registration processes, and related activities. The CEO ensures the integrity, fairness, transparency, and efficiency of the electoral process in American Samoa. This role is responsible for managing the American Samoa Election Office (ASEO), developing policies, providing public education on electoral matters, and ensuring compliance with election laws. The CEO works closely with the Governor’s office, election boards, and other stakeholders to maintain public trust and the proper functioning of the territory’s electoral system.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Election Administration: Oversee the planning, organization, and execution of all elections, ensuring compliance with American Samoa’s election laws, including local and national elections, referenda, and special elections.

• Voter Registration: Supervise voter registration activities, ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and accessible voter rolls, and manage public campaigns to increase voter registration and participation.

• Election Logistics: Ensure that election materials, voting machines, and equipment are procured and deployed in a timely manner. Supervise the setup of polling stations and ensure smooth election day operations.

• Campaign Finance Oversight: Monitor and enforce compliance with campaign finance regulations, including overseeing the reporting of political contributions and expenditures and ensuring transparency in the electoral process.

• Public Engagement and Education: Lead outreach programs to educate voters about the electoral process, voting rights, and the importance of civic participation. Provide support and guidance on absentee voting, voter identification, and polling procedures.

• Policy Development and Legal Compliance: Draft, review, and implement election policies and procedures to ensure compliance with both territorial and federal election laws. Keep abreast of changes in electoral laws and regulations.

• Staff Leadership and Management: Lead, supervise, and manage Election Office staff, election workers, and volunteers. Ensure staff are well-trained, efficient, and prepared for all stages of election preparation and execution.

• Election Results Reporting: Oversee the counting of votes, election result compilation, and reporting. Ensure transparency and accuracy in announcing election results to the public and stakeholders.

• Interagency Collaboration: Work closely with other government agencies, such as the American Samoa Police Department (ASPD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to ensure election security and integrity.

• Crisis Management: Develop and implement contingency plans for emergencies, such as natural disasters, security threats, or any other events that could affect the election process.

• Ongoing Training and Development: Ensure that all election staff and volunteers are regularly trained on legal updates, new technologies, and best practices in election administration.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• In-depth understanding of American Samoa’s electoral laws, policies, and regulations.

• Familiarity with campaign finance laws, including reporting, fundraising, and compliance.

• Knowledge of public administration principles and government processes.

• Understanding of voter rights, election security, and inclusivity, particularly concerning absentee voting and military personnel.

• Strong leadership, organizational, and management skills, with experience in handling large-scale operations and multi-departmental coordination.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with government officials, the public, and the media.

• Proficiency with election management systems and voting technologies, including software for voter registration, election results reporting, and campaign finance tracking.

• Budget management and financial oversight skills, including monitoring expenditures related to elections.

• Ability to manage multiple complex tasks and deadlines, particularly during peak election cycles.

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities to address challenges and unforeseen issues that may arise during elections.

• Ability to foster a transparent, accountable, and collaborative work environment within the Election Office and with external stakeholders.

• Capacity to effectively lead teams and drive initiatives that improve the efficiency and accessibility of the electoral process.

Academic and Experience Requirements

Education:

• A bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Law, or a related field is required. A master’s degree in these areas is preferred.

Experience:

• At least 7-10 years of experience in election administration, public administration, or related fields, including at least 5 years in a managerial or leadership role.

• Proven track record of managing election cycles, coordinating logistics, and ensuring compliance with election laws.

• Experience in developing and implementing public outreach or education programs is preferred.

Certifications:

• Certification in election administration or related fields (e.g., from the Election Center or similar bodies) is preferred.

• A valid driver’s license and ability to travel within American Samoa.

Salary

The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.

Additional Information

For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com

*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.