Manager, Government Affairs - Defense & Space
Today• Washington, DC
Requisition ID: 295910
- Relocation Authorized: None
- Telework Type: Part-Time Telework
- Work Location: Washington,DC
- Salary Range: $180,500 - $261,100 annually (salary range is based on market data; final salary offered is determined by education, experience, and qualifications of the applicant.)
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments . They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report .
Job Summary:
The Government Affairs Defense & Space Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing strategies to support Bechtel's objectives within the realms of national defense policy.
They apply their deep understanding of government processes, regulations, and relationships with U.S. defense agencies. The ideal candidate is a proactive communicator, skilled in advocacy and adept at fostering partnerships with key stakeholders.
The Government Affairs Defense & Space Specialist reports to and receives broad functional direction from the VP & Manager of the Washington, D.C. Office. They are responsible for engagement and advocacy activities with designated federal agencies, the Congress and policy organizations; they formulate and advise business leaders on appropriate advocacy and engagement strategies, manages relationships with key government agency officials and senior Bechtel managers to identify issues and trends, develop engagement strategies, and share information.
Major Responsibilities:
- Government Relations Strategy: Develop and execute advocacy and engagement strategies to align organizational goals with defense priorities. Monitor legislative, regulatory, and policy developments impacting the Defense sector including relevant Congressional committees.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with U.S. government and defense agencies. Serves as the primary liaison with congressional committees, policymakers, and industry advocacy groups related to defense.
- Advocacy and Policy Development: Advocate for Bechtel's interests in key policy areas, including national security and technology innovation. Provide policy recommendations and contribute to legislative and regulatory proposals.
- Research and Analysis: Conduct detailed analyses of policy trends and their potential impact on Bechtel's operations and objectives. Prepare briefing materials, reports, and white papers for internal and external stakeholders.
- Event Representation: Represent Bechtel at conferences, hearings, and industry events to advocate for its positions and establish thought leadership in defense affairs.
- Collaboration Across Teams: Work closely with internal departments, including legal, compliance, and communications teams, to ensure alignment on policy priorities and messaging. Coordinate with external partners, such as contractors and industry associations, to amplify advocacy efforts.
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Education and Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, international relations, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.
- 12+ years of experience in government, policy development, or government affairs.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, if required.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Deep understanding of U.S. government processes and defense policy, including knowledge of legislative, federal budget and regulatory processes and political and economic impacts to Bechtel's interests.
- Demonstrated experience in dealing with federal agency officials, the Congress, and/or foreign embassies.
- Strong analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with government officials and industry leaders.
- Highly collaborative and team-oriented.
Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.
At Bechtel, our employees enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with optional disability and supplemental insurance options, generous paid time off (160 hours annually, accrued 6.16 hours per pay period), nine paid holidays, paid parental leave, discretionary bonuses, and a well-designed 401K plan with matching and profit-sharing components
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com
Client-provided location(s): Washington, DC
Job ID: Bechtel-295910
Employment Type: OTHER
Posted: 2026-07-28T20:42:42
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Vision Insurance
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- HSA
- HSA With Employer Contribution
- On-Site Gym
- Pet Insurance
- Mental Health Benefits
Parental Benefits
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
- Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
- Fertility Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
Work Flexibility
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Company Outings
- Holiday Events
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Leave of Absence
Financial and Retirement
- 401(K) With Company Matching
- Performance Bonus
- Relocation Assistance
Professional Development
- Internship Program
- Promote From Within
- Mentor Program
- Access to Online Courses
Diversity and Inclusion
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
- Unconscious Bias Training
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program