Satellite Policy Manager

About the role

The hire will own the end-to-end regulatory strategy that allows Starlink Mobile to connect standard mobile devices directly with satellites in orbit. They will navigate complex international regulatory environments to secure the necessary approvals and spectrum allocations for global service deployment. This role involves shaping policy discussions at government and industry forums to ensure the mobile satellite service can operate without disruptive constraints. The individual will work closely with technical engineering teams to translate complex system architectures into clear regulatory pleadings and advocacy materials. They will provide strategic counsel to the Starlink Mobile team by analyzing emerging policy trends and regulatory shifts that could impact the business. The position requires active participation in partnerships with international telecommunications authorities and industry organizations to advance shared objectives. Success in this role will be measured by the ability to secure favorable regulatory outcomes that unblock product launch and scale. The hire will be a critical bridge between SpaceX's ambitious technical goals and the policy frameworks that govern space and wireless communications.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Orchestrate the comprehensive regulatory strategy that governs Starlink Mobile operations across multiple jurisdictions.
• Serve as the primary representative for SpaceX before international regulatory agencies, industry associations, and standards bodies.
• Champion spectrum policies that advance mobile and broadband objectives aligned with evolving business requirements.
• Collaborate with technical teams to develop pleadings and advocacy documents that integrate sophisticated technical analysis.
• Analyze industry trends and policy developments to deliver actionable strategic guidance to the Starlink Mobile leadership.
• Facilitate productive dialogues with government officials and regulators to secure support for satellite-to-cellular initiatives.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory changes to identify risks and opportunities for Starlink Mobile's market entry and growth.
• Drive the development of policy positions that balance technical feasibility with regulatory compliance and market opportunity.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders to strengthen SpaceX's influence in policy discussions.
• Translate technical requirements into clear regulatory arguments that mitigate approval barriers for new services.
• Coordinate cross-functional efforts to ensure policy strategies are integrated with product timelines and commercial goals.
• Prepare high-impact communications, including testimony and briefing materials, for engagements with public officials.
• Assess the implications of international regulatory frameworks to support scalable and compliant global deployments.
• Guide decision-making processes by synthesizing complex policy landscapes into strategic recommendations for executive stakeholders.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any field of study.
• Bring a minimum of 3 years of professional experience in policy roles or within a technology-focused organization.
• Maintain eligibility under ITAR regulations as a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
• Demonstrate the ability to travel 30-40% of the time to engage with stakeholders and attend meetings as needed.
• Commit to working extended hours and weekends when operational demands or critical deadlines require.
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills to articulate policy positions to diverse audiences.
• Show capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Apply analytical skills to interpret regulatory documents and derive practical implications for business operations.
• Align with SpaceX's mission-driven culture and commitment to ambitious technological achievements.
• Adhere to company standards for professionalism, integrity, and collaboration across global teams.
• Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality in matters involving regulatory strategy and government engagement.
• Display resilience and adaptability when navigating complex and evolving policy environments.
• Contribute to a culture of inclusion, respect, and continuous improvement within the organization.

Nice to have

• Accumulate 3 or more years of experience focused on telecommunications policy or regulatory roles within the wireless sector.
• Develop technical expertise related to wireless technologies, mobile device standards, or established satellite industry practices.
• Gain experience interfacing directly with government agencies and regulators on policy or commercial initiatives.
• Achieve professional fluency in Japanese, French, Spanish, Portuguese, or other internationally relevant languages.
• Demonstrate a track record of influencing policy outcomes in highly regulated industries.
• Bring knowledge of federal spectrum management processes and international frequency coordination procedures.
• Understand the business dynamics of mobile network operators and their interaction with satellite service providers.
• Familiarity with legal and regulatory frameworks that affect cross-border data flows and telecommunications services.

Practical notes

Compensation includes base salary, potential long-term incentives such as stock or cash awards, and discretionary bonuses. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) plan, life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Employees receive 3 weeks of paid vacation, at least 10 paid holidays, and accrued sick leave. This position requires an onsite presence in Washington, DC.