Director, Federal Policy - San Mateo California

Company: Booster
Location: San Mateo, California
Posted On: 05/10/2025

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial transportation. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, and operational excellence to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users - from first responders to insurance claims adjusters, utilities, and more!About the role:Skydio's mission is to make the world more productive, creative, and safe with autonomous flight. We are looking for a mission-driven policy professional to accelerate those objectives. This position will focus on federal government engagement, partnering with Congress, federal agencies, think tanks and industry associations.You will develop and lead policy initiatives on a range of critical and fascinating issues, including:

• Supporting the life-saving use of Drones as First Responders by local law enforcement;
• Partnering with DHS to accelerate drone operations (including dock-based operations), improving efficiency and safety;
• Expanding the use of small, smart drones by the U.S. military and its allies;
• Promoting a regulatory framework that enables complex drone operations and ensures U.S. leadership in a new era of aviation; and
• Shaping the future of AI policy.Candidates with experience supporting public safety and/or homeland security agencies will find this role especially meaningful. This position will require registration under the LDA. The level and title of the role will depend on the experience and interests of the successful candidate.How you'll make an impact:
  • Represent Skydio before Congress, with a focus on the Appropriations, Homeland Security, Judiciary, Armed Services, and Transportation/Commerce committees.
  • Engage with federal agencies, with a focus on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, and Federal Aviation Administration.
  • Lead Skydio's AI policy efforts, helping shape evolving governance standards while reinforcing U.S. leadership in autonomous systems.
  • Represent Skydio in key industry associations, building relationships across the community.
  • Support Skydio's civil aviation regulatory objectives, working with policymakers, regulatory agencies, and customers in coordination with the regulatory team.
  • Monitor and drive Skydio's response to policy proposals and rulemaking from federal agencies, industry associations, and standards bodies.What would make you a strong fit:
    • 5+ years of experience in federal policy is required, ideally related to homeland security, national security, technology innovation, and/or aviation and transportation. 8+ years of experience is preferred.
    • Experience as a Congressional staffer is strongly preferred, but we will also consider former Executive Branch officials with congressional engagement experience.
    • Experience with appropriations--especially homeland security or national security appropriations--is strongly preferred.
    • You are a storyteller by nature. At Skydio, we believe policy work is storytelling by another name. You excel at casting a vision and sharing stories about the transformational impact of technology in a way that naturally advances policy objectives.
    • You understand that significant victories are never achieved alone. You excel at building and sustaining support for forward-leaning objectives by working across multiple axes, including the executive branch, the legislative branch, industry associations, and public relations.
    • Strong sense of ownership and the ability to operate in a fast-paced environment with competing demands on your time.
    • Exercise proactive, creative leadership. Spot issues before they become problems.
    • Superior written and oral communication skills, including the ability to explain complicated topics--such as autonomy--to partners and policy makers.
    • Ability to travel, as required (likely no more than 10-15% of the time).
    • A B.A. or B.S. degree. Advanced degrees are preferred.Compensation Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $193,500 - 252,000*. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. In addition to base salary, Skydio full-time employees are eligible to enroll in our benefit plans and take advantage of a variety of incentives and stipends.* For some positions the pay may be dependent upon the individual's regional location.
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