Government Affairs Manager

About the role

SpaceX is seeking a manager to oversee government relations and community outreach for SpaceX and SpaceXAI in Hawthorne, California. You will serve as the primary point of contact for local and state officials, managing strategic relationships to support our ongoing operations and community presence. The role requires a professional who can operate with a high degree of autonomy while interfacing with external stakeholders. You will be responsible for translating complex regulatory landscapes into actionable strategies for the business. This position is integral to maintaining our license to operate within the local community. Success in this role will be measured by the strength of partnerships and the ability to anticipate policy impacts. You will play a key role in ensuring that the company's activities are understood and supported by the appropriate governmental bodies.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Orchestrate engagement with civic leaders to advance SpaceX and SpaceXAI objectives through proactive relationship management.
• Establish and maintain a robust network of contacts among local lawmakers, regulators, and government officials to facilitate information flow.
• Monitor and evaluate regional policy changes to identify potential impacts on company operations and strategy.
• Execute research initiatives and produce high-quality policy-related collateral to inform internal decision-making.
• Synchronize with the communications team to develop and implement cohesive outreach strategies that align with corporate messaging.
• Support the director of Government Affairs in the execution of statewide initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader corporate goals.
• Liaise with cross-functional departments to gather insights and ensure that government affairs strategies are integrated into business planning.
• Represent the company at local forums and meetings to articulate our position on relevant community and policy issues.
• Prepare detailed reports on stakeholder interactions and policy developments to track progress and refine approaches.
• Manage the dissemination of information to internal stakeholders regarding legislative and regulatory updates.
• Coordinate community engagement activities to strengthen local relationships and enhance corporate reputation.
• Assist in the development of materials used for briefings and presentations to government officials and community partners.
• Ensure all government affairs activities are conducted in compliance with corporate standards and regulatory requirements.
• Provide strategic counsel to leadership on government relations best practices and emerging trends.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Bring 5+ years of professional experience in public affairs, including legislative navigation, advocacy, or crisis management.
• Demonstrate the ability to work onsite in Hawthorne, CA, with no option for remote or hybrid arrangements.
• Exhibit availability for travel, long hours, and weekend work as needed to meet business demands.
• Must attend industry and political events representing the company to maintain and strengthen relationships.
• Possess a deep understanding of the political environment in the relevant jurisdictions.
• Show a commitment to ethical conduct and integrity in all professional interactions.
• Have the legal right to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
• Display strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain excellent judgment and discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Be prepared to obtain any necessary security clearances if required for the role.
• Have a proven ability to work effectively both independently and within a team setting.
• Understand the importance of confidentiality in managing government relations.

Nice to have

• Existing relationships with Hawthorne community leaders that can be leveraged for mutual benefit.
• Proven track record of achieving measurable outcomes in political or community engagement initiatives.
• Experience with corporate community relations and managing public perception.
• Knowledge of local government affairs practices specific to the Canadian regulatory environment.
• Strong cross-functional communication abilities to bridge gaps between departments.
• Familiarity with the aerospace and technology sectors and their respective policy challenges.
• Experience in managing budgets and resources for government affairs projects.
• Ability to mentor junior team members in public affairs strategies.

Practical notes

The position requires onsite work in Hawthorne, Canada, with no remote or hybrid options available. Employees must be available for travel, long hours, and weekend work as dictated by business needs. The role is subject to ITAR regulations, requiring applicants to be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees. All hires must comply with the eligibility verification process. This position offers a competitive salary range of $110,000 to $150,000 per year. Compensation includes potential long-term incentives, stock options, discretionary bonuses, and an employee stock purchase plan. Comprehensive benefits include medical, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks of vacation, and 10+ paid holidays. The successful candidate will contribute to a dynamic and mission-driven environment focused on advancing technology and exploration.