Director of Government Affairs
Loft Orbital
About Loft Federal
Loft Federal is committed to delivering the U.S. national security space community a fast, affordable, and streamlined pathway to orbit. As a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Loft Orbital Solutions, Inc., we specialize in providing mission-ready space infrastructure with unmatched efficiency.
At Loft, we empower our team with autonomy, ownership, and bold problem-solving opportunities while fostering a tight-knit, supportive environment. We believe that diversity, inclusivity, and community are the foundation of an open and innovative culture. We value kind, collaborative, and mission-driven teammates who excel in problem-solving and communication—because great solutions come from great teams.
Loft Federal, a fast-moving, non-traditional defense contractor delivering space infrastructure at mission speed, is seeking a mission-oriented Director of Government Affairs to lead its external engagement strategy across the U.S. Government, allied defense ministries, and national security space stakeholders. Based in Washington, D.C., this position will advance Loft Federal's strategic interests in policy, funding, and acquisition processes, positioning the company as a trusted and innovative partner for the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and international allies.
The Director of Government Affairs will report to the VP for Strategy and Development and work closely with the executive team, program managers, and business development leads to align Loft Federal's growth strategy with emerging defense space priorities.
What You'll Do
- Government Affairs Strategy & Policy Advocacy
- Lead the development and execution of Loft Federal's government affairs strategy, with a focus on national security space policy, funding, and acquisition reform.
- Monitor, analyze, and influence legislation, policy, and regulatory initiatives relevant to defense space operations, commercial integration, and secure government communications.
- Shape policy positions on FOCI mitigation, classified program access, and technology export controls.
- Engagement & Representation
- Serve as the primary interface to Congress (e.g., SASC, HASC, appropriations committees), DoD DMV offices (e.g., SAF/SQ, USSF, SDA), and IC elements (e.g., NRO, NGA).
- Develop and maintain trusted relationships with senior military, civilian, and legislative stakeholders.
- Advocate for Loft Federal's capabilities in emerging program elements, new-start initiatives, and RDT&E funding.
- Represent Loft Federal in key industry and government forums (e.g., NDIA, AIA, SSCI, NSSA).
- Internal Integration & Advisory
- Provide strategic guidance to capture, engineering, and executive teams on aligning capabilities with DoD/IC mission needs.
- Review the CBJB, R-Forms, P-Forms, NDAA, and appropriations language to identify opportunities for Loft Federal and provide reporting back to the executive team to influence strategy and resourcing.
- Support proposal development and positioning efforts by translating policy and funding insights into actionable business strategies.
- Coordinate with security, legal, and compliance functions to ensure alignment with ITAR, FOCI, and classified engagement protocols.
What You'll Bring
- 15+ years of experience in U.S. Government relations, defense policy, or national security legislative affairs.
- In-depth understanding of DoD and IC space acquisition, funding, and requirements processes.
- Demonstrated success shaping policy and engaging with senior government stakeholders in classified or national security domains.
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and briefing skills.
- U.S. citizenship and the ability to maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
- Prior experience supporting a FOCI-mitigated entity or working in a non-traditional defense or dual-use technology company.
- Deep understanding of U.S. Space Force, NRO, and joint acquisition pathways.
- Strong network across Congressional staff, DoD/IC acquisition organizations, and strategic industry coalitions.
Why Join Loft Federal
- Opportunity to shape strategic interests and growth for Loft Federal.
- A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and impact.
- Compensation: Base salary of $180,000 – $240,000, plus performance variable, plus equity component.
Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action
Loft Federal is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information, disability, pregnancy, or any other legally protected status.
Accessibility & Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a disability when applying for an open position, please contact us at recruiting@loftfederal.com for assistance.
We Hire for Talent, Not Just Resumes
Research shows that while men apply for jobs when they meet about 60% of the qualifications, women and other underrepresented groups tend to apply only when they meet 100% of the listed criteria. At Loft Federal, we value diverse perspectives, respectful debate, and people who challenge assumptions. If you’re excited about a role but don’t meet every requirement, we strongly encourage you to apply.
Third-Party Recruiters & Agencies
No outside recruiters, please. Loft Federal does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, staffing agencies, or third-party recruiters. We will not pay fees for candidates submitted without a signed agreement in place.