Government Affairs Manager (National Security)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Paid vacation and holidays

Job summary

A leading aerospace company is seeking a Government Affairs Manager in Washington, DC. The role requires over 5 years of experience in legislative matters and involves supporting national security policies and defense appropriations efforts. Ideal candidates will have an advanced degree in a relevant field and strong communication skills. The position offers a salary range of $110,000 to $150,000 per year, along with comprehensive benefits and a dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience working on legislative matters.
• Direct experience with federal appropriations, especially in defense.

Responsibilities

• Support key policy areas like national security and defense.
• Shape legislative strategies and develop policy positions.
• Oversee consultants engaged in government affairs matters.
• Prepare presentations for key audiences.

Skills

Legislative experience

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Coalition building

Education

Advanced degree in science, policy, or political science

Job description

Government Affairs Manager (National Security)

Washington, DC

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

As a member of the SpaceX Government Affairs team, you will support SpaceX and Starlink’s business and growth objectives through direct federal lobbying efforts and strategic coalition building on a range of issues, including telecommunications, broadband, and national security.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support Government Affairs by serving as a front‑line advocate for SpaceX on key policy areas, including national security and defense and Intelligence Community matters, artificial intelligence, satellite communications, and other national security capabilities
• Shape legislative strategies, tactics, and policy development for the federal government, particularly with defense appropriations committees and intelligence authorization committees
• Develop, maintain, and build‑upon a network of relationships with federal government officials, lawmakers, and regulatory decision‑makers
• Oversee and manage consultants and third‑parties engaged in SpaceX government affairs matters
• Draft legislative language, attend hearings, draft hearing testimony, and develop policy positions
• Monitor and analyze relevant national security policy and funding developments
• Prepare presentations for key audiences for SpaceX leadership
• Perform research as needed, develop policy and collateral materials

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of professional experience working on legislative matters in the private sector or a government organization

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Direct experience with federal appropriations, especially defense and classified appropriations
• Advanced degree (MA, JD, PhD) in science, policy, or political science, international affairs, or another relevant field
• Outstanding written and verbal communications skills.
• Direct experience in achieving definitive legislative outcomes
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems
• Demonstrated ability to forge coalitions and partnerships
• Passion for SpaceX's mission and goals

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Willing to travel more than 25%
• Willing to attend political and industry events on behalf of SpaceX
• Flexibility required, including long hours and weekend work when necessary to support operations and critical project timelines
• This position is based in Washington, DC and requires being onsite

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay range: Government Affairs Manager: $110,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].