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Defense Lobbying Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skyryse

Defense Business Development Lead

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

DEFENSE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD - EL SEGUNDO, CA Skyryse is seeking an execution-driven Defense ... Support coordinated efforts across government relations, advisory board development, lobbying ...

TekSky

Associate Attorney

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$125K - $180K/yr

Background in enforcement defense, regulatory compliance, or government service. * Familiarity with political committees, nonprofit organizations, and lobbying compliance. * Experience in ...

Amentum

Government Relations Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

... with the defense, energy, or homeland security policy landscape. This is a HYBRID role that will ... Coordinate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) compliance , including tracking lobbying activities and ...

Joby Aviation

Senior Federal Affairs Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $229K/yr

... lobbying disclosures, registration maintenance, and ensure all activities comply with federal ... Demonstrated interest in or exposure to defense, aerospace, transportation, or emerging technology ...

Hp

Government Affairs Manager

Washington, DC

$120K - $160K/yr

... and lobbying efforts relative to HP Inc's priority issues at the state/regional level. Position ... Anticipate the impact of government policies (both offensive and defensive) for the company; work ...

KBR

Director, Legislative Affairs

Arlington, VA · On-site

Title: Director, Legislative Affairs Mission Technology Solutions (MTS) delivers defense ... Ensure all government relations activities are conducted in compliance with applicable lobbying ...

KBR

Director, Legislative Affairs

Washington, DC

Title: Director, Legislative Affairs Mission Technology Solutions (MTS) delivers defense ... Ensure all government relations activities are conducted in compliance with applicable lobbying ...

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Defense Lobbying information

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$57.6K

$108.5K

How much do defense lobbying jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense lobbying in the United States is $57,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a defense lobbyist?

To become a defense lobbyist, individuals typically need a background in political science, law, or related fields, along with experience in government, policy analysis, or advocacy. Building strong communication, negotiation skills, and understanding of defense issues are essential, and many pursue internships or work with advocacy groups to gain relevant experience.

What is a Defense Lobbying job?

A defense lobbying job involves advocating for defense contractors, military agencies, or related organizations to influence government policies, budgets, and legislation. Lobbyists work with lawmakers, government officials, and regulatory bodies to promote policies beneficial to their clients. This typically includes securing defense contracts, shaping military procurement decisions, and addressing national security concerns. Successful defense lobbyists have strong political connections, knowledge of defense policy, and an understanding of the legislative process.

What is defensive lobbying?

Defense lobbying involves advocating for policies or funding that support military or national security interests. Lobbyists in this field work to influence legislation, secure government contracts, and promote defense-related priorities through direct communication with policymakers and strategic campaigns.

Is lobbying a high paying job?

Defense lobbying jobs can offer high salaries, especially for experienced professionals with strong political connections and negotiation skills. Compensation varies based on the level of responsibility, organization size, and geographic location, with senior lobbyists often earning six-figure incomes. Additional benefits may include bonuses and performance incentives.

How much does a defense lobbyist make?

Defense lobbyists typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization they work for. Senior or specialized lobbyists with extensive networks and expertise can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 with bonuses and benefits.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for someone working in defense lobbying?

A defense lobbyist’s day frequently involves analyzing new legislation, coordinating with clients and internal teams to develop advocacy strategies, and meeting with government officials to present positions on defense-related issues. You may also attend congressional hearings, draft position papers, and monitor policy developments affecting the defense sector. Collaboration with legal experts, public relations professionals, and subject matter specialists is a key part of the role. The work is dynamic, with shifting priorities depending on legislative calendars and current events, requiring the ability to adapt quickly to new developments while maintaining strong client relationships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Lobbying position, and why are they important?

To thrive in defense lobbying, you need a strong understanding of defense policy, legislative processes, and excellent research and advocacy abilities, typically backed by a degree in political science, law, or public policy. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, policy analysis tools, and compliance regulations is often required. Exceptional relationship-building, persuasive communication, and strategic networking are vital soft skills for success in this field. These competencies allow defense lobbyists to effectively represent clients’ interests, influence policy decisions, and build trust with key stakeholders in a highly regulated and competitive environment.

More about Defense Lobbying jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Lobbying jobs? Cities with the most Defense Lobbying job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Lobbying jobs? The most popular types of Defense Lobbying jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Lobbying jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Lobbying jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Lobbying jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Lobbying jobs are:
Defense Lobbying jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Lobbying job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,610 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Defense Business Development Lead

Defense Business Development Lead

Skyryse

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

We're on a mission to make the skies safe and accessible for everyone. Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during standard flight operations, inclement weather, and emergencies. Our SkyOS solution, rigorously and relentlessly developed by skilled and dedicated Skyrysers, is the key to unlocking this unbounded future. Our technology, combined with our commitment to saving lives and our passion for aviation, will empower everyone to experience the joy and freedom of flight.
DEFENSE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD - EL SEGUNDO, CA
Skyryse is seeking an execution-driven Defense Business Development Lead to support our defense commercialization efforts. This is a utility role for a high-horsepower operator who can move fluidly across research, strategy, stakeholder mapping, and execution.
The role operates at the intersection of government relations, acquisition strategy, product positioning, and market creation. Core responsibilities include mapping the defense landscape, identifying decision-makers and budget pathways, and developing the insights that inform how Skyryse engages the defense community.
This is a full-time onsite opportunity based out of El Segundo.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Build and maintain a detailed power map of decision-makers, budget owners, program offices, and influence centers across DoW and Congress.
  • Conduct landscape analysis and data mining across the defense ecosystem to identify programs, funding pathways, competitive activity, and emerging opportunities.
  • Support the development and execution of Skyryse's defense commercialization strategy across DoW and related agencies.
  • Develop and manage a stakeholder network spanning Professional Staff Members, acquisition officials, program leaders, and warfighter end users.
  • Produce briefing materials, stakeholder dossiers, market analyses, and strategic memos that inform executive decision-making.
  • Track competitor activity, industry trends, and acquisition signals to sharpen positioning and uncover opportunities.
  • Support coordinated efforts across government relations, advisory board development, lobbying partners, PR, and competitive positioning.
  • Partner with Product, Engineering, and Leadership to align messaging and positioning with defense and commercial needs.
  • Drive early program adoption through pilots, prototypes, and competitive evaluations.
  • Take on ad hoc strategic projects to support executive priorities as the company scales.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • 4+ years of experience across military service (Army, Marine Corps, or other branches), management consulting, banking, the Intelligence Community, defense strategy, corporate strategy, or comparable analytical or operational environments.
  • Proven track record building network maps, pitching materials, landscape analysis, building business cases, and data mining complex ecosystems to surface relationships, decision pathways, and opportunities.
  • Strong research skills with the ability to turn sprawling, ambiguous problems into clear, structured answers.
  • High intellectual horsepower and curiosity, with a demonstrated ability to learn new technical domains quickly.
  • Genuine interest in aviation, aerospace, and autonomy; prior domain experience not required.
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Background in the U.S. Intelligence Community, particularly in roles involving network analysis, target development, or all-source landscape assessment.
  • Familiarity with how warfighter requirements become programs of record (e.g., JCIDS, requirements generation, PPBE budget cycles).
  • Familiarity with DoW acquisition processes, budget cycles, or government funding pathways.
  • Exposure to defense technology, dual-use technology, or high-growth startup environments.
  • Experience supporting government relations or lobbying efforts.
  • Interest in or exposure to crewed, unmanned, or autonomous aviation systems and how they are evaluated and funded across DoW acquisition pathways.

WHY SKYRYSE?
  • The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility
  • Compensation Range: $120,000 - $150,000
  • Valuable stock option plan
  • Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans
  • Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually. PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy.
  • A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues!

WE WELCOME ALLSkyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED.

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