Congressional Strategy Lead for Defense Tech

Vatn Systems; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Vatn Systems is expanding its Government Relations function and seeks a Government Relations Manager to lead the company’s congressional strategy with emphasis on the defense authorization and appropriations process.

The role involves managing engagement with HASC/SASC and HAC-D/SAC-D, translating technical undersea and unmanned systems into actionable legislative asks, and coordinating with leadership on strategy and events in Washington, Bristol, and beyond.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience with House/Senate Armed Services or Appropriations Committees.
• Direct experience with the defense authorization/appropriations markup process.
• Established relationships with committee staff or member offices relevant to defense programs.
• Fluency in the legislative and budget calendar, including CR dynamics and omnibus negotiations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain SECRET clearance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for clear legislative asks.
• Willingness to travel regularly between Washington, DC and Bristol, RI.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, analyze, and report on NDAA and Defense Appropriations bills related to unmanned systems.
• Build and maintain relationships with Members of Congress and committee staff.
• Develop and execute legislative strategies to secure funding lines and policy provisions.
• Translate technical program details into congressionally digestible narratives.
• Coordinate with the VP of Government Relations on strategy and framing.
• Monitor legislative developments affecting product lines and defense portfolio.
• Support CEO engagements, briefings, and site visits, including CODEL/STAFFDEL events.
• Represent Vatn at congressional and industry events, hearings, and markups.
• Partner with outside lobbying support and trade associations as needed.
• Assist Growth team with outreach activities, trade shows, and demonstrations.

Skills

Legislative experience

Policy communication

Relationship building

Travel readiness

Job description

Vatn Systems is expanding its Government Relations function and seeks a Government Relations Manager to lead the company’s congressional strategy with emphasis on the defense authorization and appropriations process.

The role involves managing engagement with HASC/SASC and HAC-D/SAC-D, translating technical undersea and unmanned systems into actionable legislative asks, and coordinating with leadership on strategy and events in Washington, Bristol, and beyond.