About This Role 
 
Varda supports a wide range of customers from pharmaceutical companies creating new products in microgravity, to government agencies testing new capabilities through hypersonic flight. As a member of the Varda government affairs team, you will be responsible for advancing Varda’s priorities with federal government agencies and stakeholders, as well as international partners.  As Senior Manager for Government Affairs, you will share in the responsibility of educating policymakers about Varda business, team, and policies that impact the entire organization. In addition you will help monitor pending legislative, regulatory, and program announcements and opportunities, draft regular government affairs briefing materials, and identify and execute on paths where engaging with international, federal and state level government agencies can assist in accelerating Varda.   
This is a full-time, exempt position located in our Washington, D.C. office. 
 
Responsibilities

• Along with the Vice President for Government Affairs, develop and execute strategies to advance company interests with the Federal government. 

• Identify opportunities to advocate legislation through trade associations or directly.

• Assist in educating federal policymakers and other stakeholders about Varda’s approach, recent mission updates, etc. 

• Develop and maintain relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch appointees and civil servants.

• Coordinate with colleagues on business development/regulatory opportunities and risk management.

• Provide support at conferences and events as needed.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in political science, engineering, or other related field

• 5+ years of federal legislative or executive branch experience

• Experience with issues and policies relevant to the commercial space industry, regulatory requirements, and civil space programs 

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Strong written and verbal communication

• Excellent negotiation, conflict resolution and leadership skills

• Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time

• U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S. to conform with U.S. Government space technology export regulations under ITAR. 

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Master’s/Juris Doctor in political science, engineering, law, or other related field

• 8+ years federal legislative or executive branch experience
  
  
• Active security clearance (TS, TS//SCI or S) or willingness to seek a clearance

Pay Range

• Salary range: $145,000 - $180,000

• This role is on-site in Washington, D.C. 

• Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance

• You will be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards