VP of Government Affairs

The role

You will own the company's relationship with Washington and build the in-house government affairs function from zero to one. You will execute a strategy to access defense programs and shape policy in the unmanned systems and C2 space.

What you will do

• Own and execute Picogrid's full government affairs strategy at the federal level
• Build and maintain relationships with decision-makers across Congress, OSD, military services, combatant commands, and interagency stakeholders
• Drive Picogrid's positioning in relevant defense budget cycles
• Develop and communicate policy positions on export controls, open architecture standards, and technology competition
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and executive team
• Represent Picogrid externally at industry events, hearings, conferences, and stakeholder engagements
• Hire and manage an internal team, external advisors, lobbyists, and consultants
• Build coalitions with defense tech companies, trade associations, and national security organizations

Required qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in government affairs, defense policy, congressional affairs, or related roles
• Experience building out a Government Affairs function and team at a high growth technology company
• Ability to translate complex technical capabilities into accessible, compelling policy narratives
• Comfort operating as a founder-minded, high-ownership individual contributor
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Executive presence and credibility with senior government officials
• Willingness to travel regularly between El Segundo and Washington, DC, and to attend field and customer engagements as needed
• Bachelor's degree

Nice to have

• Direct experience in or with DoD, a military service, or the Office of the Secretary of Defense
• Familiarity with the unmanned systems, autonomous systems, or C2/ISR policy landscape
• Experience supporting government affairs at a defense technology company or non-traditional defense contractor
• Knowledge of export control frameworks (ITAR/EAR)
• U.S. security clearance (active or ability to obtain TS/SCI)
• Experience managing external lobbyists, consultants, or a small internal team
• Advanced degree (JD, MA, MPP)

Benefits

• Significant stock options
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
• Relocation assistance provided (if applicable)
• Unlimited PTO (two-week minimum)
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Paid parental leave for both parents

Before you apply

• Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful, permanent resident, Refugee, or Asylee, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State

About the company

Picogrid is a venture-backed defense technology company building infrastructure to unify sensors, autonomy, and operators. Their mission is to deliver an operational advantage to secure the United States and its allies.