Federal Affairs Director: Policy & Congress Leader

Southwest Airlines Co.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 146,000 - 162,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fly for free for you and eligible deps

401(k) match contributions

ProfitSharing opportunities

Competitive health insurance

Job summary

Southwest Airlines Co. seeks a Federal Affairs Director to advocate for the Company before Congress and shape strategies within Governmental Affairs in Washington, D.C.

You’ll manage key political relationships, monitor regulatory developments, and collaborate with teams to evaluate impacts on Southwest’s operations. The role requires deep knowledge of federal legislation, strong research and writing skills, and the ability to work with internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Expert level experience in federal government legislative or policy work.
• Aviation/transportation experience is a plus.
• Experience advocating for priorities before Congress.
• Strong research and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide thought leadership on legislative and regulatory priorities for Southwest.
• Advocate for Company positions with policymakers in Congress and agencies.
• Represent the Company at congressional meetings and with federal agencies.
• Educate internal stakeholders about governmental issues and policy impacts.
• Understand the business model and industry dynamics to inform strategy.
• Monitor legislation and industry news affecting the Governmental Affairs dept.
• Build and maintain external networks with government, business, labor, and nonprofit entities.
• Prepare research, memos, letters, and draft legislation as needed.
• Assist with compliance reporting for political activities.
• Coordinate GA-related meetings for senior leaders visiting Washington, DC.

Skills

Federal legislative processes

Regulatory processes

Communication

Research skills

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Word processing

Job description

Southwest Airlines Co. seeks a Federal Affairs Director to advocate for the Company before Congress and shape strategies within Governmental Affairs in Washington, D.C.

You’ll manage key political relationships, monitor regulatory developments, and collaborate with teams to evaluate impacts on Southwest’s operations. The role requires deep knowledge of federal legislation, strong research and writing skills, and the ability to work with internal and external stakeholders.