Federal Engagement Manager
Firestorm
Operations
Remote
USD 132k-156k / year + Equity
Posted on Sep 25, 2025
Federal Engagement Manager
Remote
Business Development
Remote
Full-time
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
Firestorm is seeking a mission-driven Federal Engagement Manager to build and execute our business development and go-to-market strategy across the Department of Defense (DoD) and the broader national security ecosystem. This individual will operate at the intersection of government relations, strategic engagement, and account development, directly supporting Firestorm’s federal appropriations strategy and shaping long-term customer partnerships.
As part of the Business Development team, this role is critical in establishing Firestorm’s presence and growth within the defense innovation and national security space. You will own strategic engagements with senior stakeholders across the legislative and executive branches, identify high-impact funding pathways, and work cross-functionally to position Firestorm as a mission-essential capability within the federal landscape.
What You'll Do
- Develop and formulate Firestorm’s federal appropriations engagement strategy, identifying opportunities that align with congressional and agency priorities across DoD, and national security agencies
- Lead engagement with key decision-makers and stakeholders across the federal, state, and local levels.
- Build and manage relationships with stakeholders in Congress, the Department of Defense, federal agencies, and state governments, including Members of Congress, Governors, and their staff, to clearly communicate Firestorm’s value and mission.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with state and local officials to support policy alignment, funding access, and community integration.
- Cultivate strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and commercial entities to support Firestorm’s broader innovation and mission objectives.
- Identify, shape, and advance funding pathways including new-starts, program elements and authorizations that support Firestorm’s growth objectives through both federal appropriations and state-level initiatives such as Governor’s offices, workforce development programs, and state-issued grant opportunities.
- Serve as a strategic partner to internal and external stakeholders, aligning business development strategies with the federal budget and policy cycle
- Coordinate and support meetings with Members of Congress, committee staff, senior military leaders, and key program offices
- Draft and manage white papers, funding justifications, talking points, congressional language, and briefing materials for federal audiences
- Work closely with the Operations and broader Business Development team to align external advocacy efforts with internal priorities, execution capabilities, and long-term strategic objectives.
- Monitor legislative, policy, and budget developments related to Firestorm’s mission and translate insights into actionable strategies
- Represent Firestorm in engagements on Capitol Hill, at policy forums, with trade associations, and at national security conferences.
- Support internal planning and reporting processes related to the pursuit and development of federal appropriations and state grants, including tracking engagement outcomes and progress toward funding goals.
- Establish & strengthen a robust network within the defense ecosystem, including key congressional committees such as HASC, SASC, HAC-D, and SAC-D.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Public Administration, or related field
- Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in federal government relations, defense consulting, legislative affairs, or account executive adjacent roles
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Strong knowledge of the U.S. federal budget, appropriations, and authorization processes, particularly within the Department of Defense
- Demonstrated success in engaging with Congressional committees, Department of Defense program offices, federal executive agencies, and state and local governments to advance mission-aligned outcomes.
- Experience developing and executing funding strategies that align with emerging defense technologies and national security needs
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive documents and presentations for senior audiences
- High degree of initiative, ownership, and comfort operating in a fast-paced and evolving environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a defense-focused startup or venture-backed tech company
- Previous work in a Congressional office, think tank, or government agency focused on defense innovation or appropriations
- Familiarity with the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) process or DoD RDT&E funding structures
- Demonstrated success in aligning technology capabilities with programmatic needs and federal acquisition timelines
- Active DoD security clearance; Secret or higher
Work Environment
- This is a designated remote role.
- Travel will be a requirement for this role; up to 30% within a calendar year.
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $132,000 - $156,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
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EXPORT CONTROLS - This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Your responses to the questions below will be used solely to determine your eligibility under U.S. law to receive information and materials subject to U.S. export controls.
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Clearance Eligibility - This position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
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Req ID: R89