Government Affairs Manager
US$155,000 – US$220,000 / yr base salary
Posted 22 Sep 2026
Advertised as “Sr. Government Affairs Manager (National Security) ”
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Level
- Level 3
- Expected experience
- 10+ yrs
- Management level
- People management
- Employment
- On-Site
| Base salary | US$155,000 – US$220,000 / yr |
|---|
Study levelBachelor's
Field of studyInternational Affairs, Political Science, Public Policy, Science (or related)
Study levelMaster's or higher
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.
SR. GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER (NATIONAL SECURITY)
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:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 10+ 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