The Senior Manager of Government Affairs will enhance AUVSI’s growing advocacy portfolio by driving the adoption of key priorities within the legislative branch and federal government agencies. This role will focus on building and maintaining relationships with Members of Congress, Congressional Committees, and their staff, while tracking and promoting legislation, regulations, policies, and funding that support the integration of uncrewed systems. The Senior Manager will advocate for impactful changes with key decision-makers and must have proven experience working directly with elected officials. This position requires federal lobbyist registration.

Essential Job Functions

The Senior Manager, Government Affairs will manage and support AUVSI’s advocacy portfolio across multiple committees. Acting as a key liaison between the membership and AUVSI HQ, this role requires experience working with high-level executives, including CEOs. As the primary lobbyist for AUVSI’s Advocacy Committee, this individual will represent AUVSI on Capitol Hill and within the Executive Branch. Strong relationships with key lawmakers and their staff are essential for gathering critical intelligence and advancing advocacy priorities.

Goals for this position include:   

• Provide AUVSI advocacy committee members with real-time advocacy intelligence, counsel, and support on advocacy priorities on Capitol Hill and from the government offices. 
• Work with AUVSI members to foster consensus-based positions on key policy areas impacting the uncrewed systems sector.  
• Retain current and recruit new members in the industry that are engaged in autonomy, uncrewed systems, AI, and cybersecurity.   
• Support existing staff to manage the day-to-day activities of AUVSI’s Advocacy Committees. 
• Write briefs, letters, summaries, and other materials to support members, AUVSI communications, and other internal and external needs. 
• The ability to effectively respond to Congressional requests for feedback on pending and/or draft legislation, and support drafting, gathering feedback on, and submitting regulatory comments.  
• Assist in the creation and execution of advocacy strategic plans and tactics. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Communications, or a related field preferred.
• Three to five years of relevant work experience.
• Capitol Hill experience as a staffer on a transportation or security focused committee and/or as a Transportation Legislative Assistant in a personal office of a Member of Congress that sits on a relevant Committee.
• Candidates must be DC/DMV based and able to regularly commute to Capitol Hill.
• Experience building relationships with people at all levels.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as follow an established process.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.