ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Government Relations Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Agile Defense

Public Relations Associate

Mclean, VA · On-site

Public Relations Associate Location: Hybrid, McLean, VA Agile Defense is seeking a Public Relations ... Strong preference for experience working on the Hill and/or in federal government agencies.

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsGovernment Relations Associate Jobs

Government Relations Associate information

See salary details

$25K

$47.1K

$67K

How much do government relations associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for government relations associate in the United States is $47,089.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Relations Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Relations Associate, you need strong research, analytical, and communication skills, often supported by a degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking tools, CRM systems, and knowledge of regulatory processes is typically required. Relationship-building, persuasive writing, and adaptability are essential soft skills for effective advocacy and stakeholder engagement. These skills ensure successful navigation of legislative environments, effective advocacy, and the building of productive relationships with policymakers.

What are some common challenges faced by Government Relations Associates when balancing organizational goals with regulatory requirements?

Government Relations Associates often navigate the complex intersection of organizational priorities and evolving government regulations. One common challenge is ensuring that advocacy efforts align with both the company's objectives and compliance requirements, which can change rapidly. Additionally, they must build and maintain relationships with policymakers while accurately representing their organization's interests, even when policy outcomes are uncertain. Strong communication and adaptability are essential to address these challenges and consistently advance organizational goals within the regulatory landscape.

What does a Government Relations Associate do?

A Government Relations Associate helps organizations interact with government agencies, policymakers, and regulatory bodies. Their main duties include tracking legislation, analyzing policy impacts, and communicating the organization's interests to government officials. They often assist in drafting policy documents, scheduling meetings with lawmakers, and coordinating advocacy efforts. This role is crucial for ensuring that the organization's voice is heard on issues that impact its operations or mission.

What is the difference between Government Relations Associate vs Lobbyist?

AspectGovernment Relations AssociateLobbyist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, public relations, or related fieldOften similar; bachelor's degree required, advanced degrees or certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentCorporate, nonprofit, or government organizations; supporting government relations effortsPrivate firms, advocacy groups, or consulting agencies; directly engaging with policymakers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various sectors to manage relationships with government entitiesPrimarily in lobbying firms, advocacy groups, and corporations seeking legislative influence

While both roles involve engaging with government officials, a Government Relations Associate typically supports broader organizational strategies and maintains ongoing relationships, whereas a Lobbyist actively advocates for specific legislative outcomes. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus and scope differ.

More about Government Relations Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Government Relations Associate jobs? Cities with the most Government Relations Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Relations jobs? The most popular types of Government Relations jobs are:
What states have the most Government Relations Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Relations Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Government Relations Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Relations Associate jobs are:
Government Relations Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Relations Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,089 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Public Relations Associate

Public Relations Associate

Agile Defense

Mclean, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Agile Defense
 
At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That's why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next.
 
Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility-leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation's vital interests.

Requisition #: 1626
Job Title: Public Relations Associate
Location: Hybrid, McLean, VA
Job Description

Agile Defense is seeking a Public Relations Associate with experience in the national security and defense industry. This role is responsible for planning and executing communications strategies that strengthen the organization's visibility and reputation, support business development efforts, and develop differentiated executive thought leadership.

The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution. This is a strategic role designed to foster engagement and clarity across internal and external audiences throughout a globally distributed workforce and customer base. This position requires the ability to visualize and execute across a communications ecosystem to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation: managing media relations and developing strong relationships with key journalists, developing content and cultivating audience engagement social media, translating and ensuring consistency of messaging while building thought leadership platforms, and planning and executing key events that support business objectives.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  •  Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies aligned to business priorities and stakeholder objectives.
  • Write and distribute press releases, speeches, and other communication materials.
  • Create messaging that translates complex technologies and mission capabilities into clear value propositions.
  • Monitor public opinion and media coverage to assess the effectiveness of PR strategies.
  • Own and manage social media content strategies that combine traditional and AI-powered approaches, including ideation, content development, and execution.
  • Analyze engagement data and optimize content strategy based on performance.
  • Ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels and stakeholders.
  • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including journalists, influencers, and community leaders.
  • Support event planning, conferences, and industry engagement.
  • Experiment with new media and communication methods, tracking engagement metrics to continuously refine how messaging is resonating with key audiences.
Education and Background
  • A bachelor's degree or equivalent in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
  • Previous experience in public relations or communications, preferably in national security, defense, government contracting, or related sectors.
  • Experience developing executive-level communication materials and messaging strategies, including briefings and positioning statements.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment in adjusting campaign strategy, content direction, and channel prioritization based on performance data.
  • Experience developing and executing strategies for digital and social media platforms.
  • Demonstrated success developing and executing proactive communications strategies in large, complex organizations or government environments.
  • Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships.
  • Proficiency in media relations and understanding of the media landscape.
  • Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proven ability to turn complex business goals into relatable, effective communication strategies that resonate with people and culture.
  • Experience developing digital media content (e.g., videos, interactive content).
Years of Experience
3-5 years of experience  
Preferred Skills
  • Strong preference for experience working on the Hill and/or in federal government agencies.
  • Existing relationships with relevant journalists.
  • Experience in crisis communications management.
  • Knowledge of federal contracting, IT services, digital modernization, and government affairs.
Working Conditions
Typical Office Environment
Our Core Values
 
Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together. 
 
What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are.
 
  • Happy - Be Infectious. Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do.
  • Helpful - Be Supportive. Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated.
  • Honest - Be Trustworthy. Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support.
  • Humble - Be Grounded. Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task.
  • Hungry - Be Eager. Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges.
  • Hustle - Be Driven. Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply