Director of U.S. Government and Federal Affairs

About Zipline

Zipline is the world’s largest and most experienced drone delivery service. We are on a mission to serve all humans equally by ensuring access to food, medicine and essential goods anytime, anywhere. We design, build, and operate the world’s largest autonomous logistics system, delivering critical supplies quickly and reliably. Today, Zipline operates on four continents, makes a delivery somewhere in the world every 30 seconds, and has completed millions of deliveries to date, including blood, vaccines, medical supplies, food, and retail products.

Our customers include the world’s largest and most prominent healthcare systems, governments, retailers, restaurants and global businesses who rely on us to save lives, reduce emissions, increase economic opportunity, and provide delivery from point A to point B as fast as possible. The drone is only 15% of what we’ve built to enable seamless, reliable, global operations.

Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more than 140 million commercial autonomous miles safely flown, Zipline is redefining access to healthcare, consumer products, and food across the globe.

We operate at a global scale and are looking for practical problem solvers who thrive on real-world challenges and rapid growth. Our team is motivated by building systems that have a direct, meaningful impact on people’s lives and by scaling the future of logistics. We are seeking people who sculpt from first principles, enjoy facing adversity, and can do the impossible at record breaking speeds.

About You and The Role

Zipline is searching for a Director of U.S. Government and Federal Affairs to lead our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies, sharing how our instant logistics system can serve all people, and driving forward strategy to enable national-scale Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations in the U.S.

The role requires a deep understanding of the federal legislative process, rulemaking structures, strategic public affairs, as well as technology policy and impact storytelling. This role will report to the Head of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs and closely collaborate with Zipline’s Policy and Regulatory teams.

What You'll Do

• Tell the Zipline story of enabling equitable access using drones to policymakers in DC.

• Build and maintain a strong network with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees, and caucuses to advance Zipline’s public policy agenda.

• Work with federal agencies including the Department of Transportation, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Commerce and others to build interagency support for UAS operations and Zipline’s goals.

• Partner with trade associations, third-party organizations, and industry members to share the benefits that UAS can provide to the American public.

• Oversee and manage outside consultants and strategic advisors.

• Collaborate closely with our policy development, regulatory and community teams to craft policy proposals that will advance the ability for UAS to operate in the U.S.

What You'll Bring

• You have 8+ years of experience, including substantive experience in the U.S. House, U.S. Senate, relevant Congressional committees, or a federal agency, and a network to match. Prior in-house experience is strongly preferred.

• You have experience with federal policymaking in transportation. Specific experience with policies relating to UAS, aviation, safety, technology, and/or innovation is preferred.

• You demonstrate the ability to be both a substantive issue expert on matters important to Zipline’s business in the U.S. and manage complex and dynamic political relationships.

• You possess a track record of delivering results in developing and implementing advocacy programs on Capitol Hill and in federal agencies.

• You enjoy working with and learning from colleagues across a wide range of cultural, experiential, and professional backgrounds.

• You have a reputation for credibility, humility, and sound judgment.

• You have the grit, resourcefulness, and resilience to thrive in novel, uncertain and constantly-changing business and political environments.

• Ability to travel as required, and participate at in-person meetings in Washington, DC and our operational sites around the U.S.

What Else You Need to Know

This role is based in Washington D.C. You must be eligible to work in the United States.

The starting cash range for this role is $170,000 - $215,000. Please note that this is a target, starting cash range for a candidate who meets the minimum qualifications for this role. The final cash pay for this role will depend on a variety of factors, including a specific candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, working location, and projected impact. The total compensation package for this role may also include: equity compensation; discretionary annual or performance bonuses; sales incentives; benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance; paid time off; and more.

Zipline is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state, federal or local law or our other policies.

We value diversity at Zipline and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!