- Robot type
- Defense
- Location
- District of ColumbiaUSA
- Job type
- Commercial Operations
- Posted
- Jun 15, 2026
- Salary
- $250,000–$310,000 a year
Full-time
VP of Government Affairs
Job description
Picogrid is a leading venture-backed defense technology company founded to bridge the decades-long gap between modern technology and the critical demands of national security. Today, we're building the essential infrastructure to unify sensors, autonomy, and operators with our technology deployed in active operations around the world. Our mission is to deliver an operational advantage to secure the United States and its allies.
Job responsibilities
- Drive Picogrid's positioning in relevant defense budget cycles: identifying funding lines, influencing program office priorities, and supporting business development with strategic intelligence from the Hill and…
- Develop and communicate clear, compelling policy positions on issues critical to Picogrid's mission, including export controls, open architecture standards, and technology competition with peer adversaries.
- Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and executive team on political developments, policy risks, and government relationship management, and represent Picogrid externally at key industry events, hearings,…
- Hire and manage an internal team, external advisors, lobbyists, and consultants as the function grows.
- Build coalitions with aligned defense tech companies, trade associations, and national security organizations to advance shared policy goals.
Job requirements
- 8+ years of experience in government affairs, defense policy, congressional affairs, or related roles, with a demonstrable track record of influencing policy and procurement outcomes.
- Experience building out a Government Affairs function and team at a high growth technology company
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical capabilities into accessible, compelling policy narratives.
- Comfort operating as a founder-minded, high-ownership individual contributor
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; executive presence and credibility with senior government officials.
- Willingness to travel regularly between El Segundo and Washington, DC, and to attend field and customer engagements as needed.
- Direct experience in or with DoD, a military service, or the Office of the Secretary of Defense, particularly in acquisition, requirements, or technology policy.
- Familiarity with the unmanned systems, autonomous systems, or C2/ISR policy landscape, including relevant programs and offices (e.g., CDAO, OUSD R&E, DIU, PEO UAS).