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Government Affairs Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Sr. Government Affairs Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$150K - $205K/yr

SR. GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER As a member of the SpaceX Government Affairs team, you will support SpaceX and Starlink's business and growth objectives through direct federal lobbying efforts and ...

K&L Gates

Government Affairs Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$18/hr

The global law firm of K&L Gates LLP is seeking Government Affairs Interns for our Fall 2026 program. The K&L Gates Lloyd Meeds Policy Fellowship Program is a semester-long opportunity for ...

Blue Energy

Head of Government Affairs

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

The Head of Government Affairs will work closely with the VP of Commercial, VP of Communications, and Deputy General Counsel, and will help shape the company's overall strategic direction. Key ...

SpaceX

Government Affairs Director, X

Washington, DC · On-site

$190K - $270K/yr

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIRECTOR We are seeking a Director of the X Government Affairs team to support X's business and growth objectives through direct federal lobbying efforts and strategic coalition ...

SpaceX

Government Affairs Manager (Federal)

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER (FEDERAL) As a member of the SpaceX Government Affairs team, you will support SpaceX and Starlink's business and growth objectives through direct federal lobbying efforts ...

True Anomaly

SVP, Government Affairs

Washington, DC · On-site

As our senior-most Government Affairs leader, you'll report directly to executive leadership and build a durable, multi-year strategy rooted in how policy actually becomes law, and how programs ...

SpaceX

Sr. Government Affairs Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $205K/yr

Support SpaceX Government Affairs by serving as a front-line advocate for SpaceX on key policy areas, including broadband, artificial intelligence, and other related issues * Shape SpaceX legislative ...

FMI

Director, State Government Affairs

Arlington, VA · On-site

Provide research, information, leadership and deliverables to FMI members, state associations and FMI staff on assigned state government affairs issues of priority interest to the industry. * Monitor ...

K&L Gates

Government Affairs Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40/hr

KEY RELATIONSHIPS Sr. Government Affairs Specialist, Government Affairs Specialists, Lawyers and Lobbyists. ESSENTIAL DUTIES • Assisting Government Affairs Specialists and other policy ...

Planet

Director of Government Affairs

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Director of Government Affairs will execute Planet's government affairs strategy with Congress and U.S. national security agencies (including the Department of War, the National Reconnaissance ...

News Corp

Manager, Government Affairs

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

News Corp seeks a government affairs professional to be Manager, Government Affairs. This role will play a key part in shaping the policy environment impacting journalism, digital platforms, and ...

News Corp

Manager, Government Affairs

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

News Corp seeks a government affairs professional to be Manager, Government Affairs. This role will play a key part in shaping the policy environment impacting journalism, digital platforms, and ...

FMI

Director, State Government Affairs

Arlington, VA · On-site

Provide research, information, leadership and deliverables to FMI members, state associations and FMI staff on assigned state government affairs issues of priority interest to the industry. Monitor ...

News Corp.

Manager, Government Affairs

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

News Corp seeks a government affairs professional to be Manager, Government Affairs. This role will play a key part in shaping the policy environment impacting journalism, digital platforms, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGovernment Affairs JobsGovernment Affairs Jobs in Reston, VA

Government Affairs information

See Reston, VA salary details

$32.3K

$110.5K

$169.6K

How much do government affairs jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for government affairs in Reston, VA is $110,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,600.00 and $137,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a government affairs professional?

Government Affairs professionals are specialists who manage the relationship between an organization and government entities. They monitor legislative and regulatory developments, advocate for policies that benefit their organization, and ensure compliance with government regulations. Their responsibilities often include lobbying, building relationships with lawmakers, and communicating the organization's position on various public issues. These professionals help organizations navigate complex political environments and influence policy decisions that affect their business or mission.

What are jobs in government affairs?

Working in government affairs involves being in the employ of a large firm who has interests related to government policy. In a government affairs department, you work as part of a team to network with politicians and influence legislation for the benefit of your firm. Your responsibilities also include liaising with public officials to coordinate and plan an initiative or program that helps establish policy or law. Other duties involve managing or directing services that make your firm more visible to policymakers. As a government affairs manager, you compile data and research to target legislative priorities and policymakers effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government affairs professional?

To thrive as a Government Affairs professional, you need a solid understanding of public policy, regulatory frameworks, and legislative processes, typically supported by a degree in political science, law, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, stakeholder management tools, and sometimes certifications like the Public Affairs Council Certificate are valuable. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and negotiation skills are crucial for effectively influencing policy and representing organizational interests. These competencies enable professionals to navigate complex political environments, advocate successfully, and build strong alliances that advance organizational goals.

How does a government affairs professional typically collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders?

Government Affairs professionals often serve as a bridge between their organization and governmental or regulatory bodies. They regularly collaborate with internal teams—such as legal, public relations, and executive leadership—to develop unified policy positions and strategies. Externally, they engage with policymakers, advocacy groups, and industry associations to communicate organizational interests and monitor legislative developments. Effective collaboration and communication skills are essential, as the role involves coordinating input from various departments and building relationships with key external stakeholders to advance the organization's objectives.

What is the difference between Government Affairs vs Public Relations?

AspectGovernment AffairsPublic Relations
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in political science, public policy, or related fields; often benefits from government or policy experienceUsually requires a degree in communications, marketing, or journalism; experience in media or corporate communications is common
Work EnvironmentOften involves lobbying, policy analysis, and government interactionsFocuses on media relations, brand management, and public messaging
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by corporations, associations, and government agencies to influence policyUsed by companies, nonprofits, and agencies to shape public perception

While both roles involve communication and strategic outreach, Government Affairs primarily focuses on influencing legislation and policy through government engagement, whereas Public Relations centers on managing a company's public image and media relations. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or job focus within the industry.

How much do government affairs people make?

Salaries for government affairs professionals typically range from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the size of the organization. Senior roles or those in large agencies can earn higher, often exceeding $150,000 with additional benefits and bonuses.

What degree do you need for government affairs?

A career in government affairs typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, or a related field. Advanced positions may prefer or require a master's degree or law degree, along with strong communication and policy analysis skills.
More about Government Affairs jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Affairs jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Government Affairs jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Government Affairs jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Government Affairs jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Government Affairs jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Government Affairs job openings:

Government Affairs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Affairs job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,467 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Sr. Government Affairs Manager

SpaceX

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$150K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SR. GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER 

As a member of the SpaceX Government Affairs team, you will support SpaceX and Starlink's business and growth objectives through direct federal lobbying efforts and strategic coalition building on a range of issues, including telecommunications, broadband, and artificial intelligence. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Support SpaceX Government Affairs by serving as a front-line advocate for SpaceX on key policy areas, including broadband, artificial intelligence, and other related issues
  • Shape SpaceX legislative strategies, tactics, and policy development for the federal government
  • Develop, maintain, and build-upon a network of relationships with federal government officials, lawmakers, and regulatory decision-makers, as appropriate
  • Oversee and manage consultants and third-parties engaged in SpaceX government affairs matters
  • Draft legislative language, attend hearings, draft hearing testimony, and develop policy positions
  • Monitor and analyze domestic policy developments
  • Prepare presentations for key audiences for SpaceX leadership
  • Perform research as needed, develop policy and collateral materials

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • 10+ years of professional experience working on legislative matters in the private sector or a government organization

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Advanced degree (MA, JD, PhD) in science, policy, or political science, international affairs, or another relevant field
  • Outstanding written and verbal communications skills
  • Experience working on policy issues directly related to aerospace, artificial intelligence, breakthrough technology, or telecommunications at federal regulatory agencies or legislative committees/bodies
  • Direct experience in achieving definitive legislative outcomes
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems
  • Demonstrated ability to forge coalitions and partnerships
  • Passion for SpaceX's mission and goals

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be willing to travel, <25%
  • Must be willing to attend political and industry events on behalf of SpaceX
  • Flexibility required, including long hours and weekend work when necessary to support operations and critical project timelines
  • This position is based in Washington, DC and requires being onsite - remote work not considered

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    
Pay range:    
Sr. Manager, Government Affairs: $150,000.00 - $205,000.00/per year    
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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