Government Affairs Associate

Applied Compute

Applied Compute

Operations

Washington, DC, USA

Posted on May 7, 2026

Location

Washington D.C.

Employment Type

Full time

Department

Government

About the role:

We are seeking a Government Affairs Associate to join our Government Affairs team. This role will help drive the company's executive and legislative strategies, shape external messaging, and support engagements in Congressional and Executive branches. Duties will include track legislation, policy and regulatory developments related to autonomy, defense technology, and physical AI; help develop the company’s positions and responses, support political and stakeholder engagement strategy; and represent the company in meetings with policymakers and other key external audiences. The role will have the opportunity to develop internal management processes, lead strategy discussions, and engage with Applied stakeholders.

At Applied Intuition, you will:

  • Build and maintain relationships with Members of Congress and congressional staff on relevant Appropriations and Authorization Committees/Subcommittees.

  • Help shape the company’s federal legislative priorities, policy positions, and political engagement strategy by understanding business objectives, growth opportunities, and potential risks.

  • Work closely with Applied’s external government affairs consultants, trade associations, and industry partners to advance shared priorities.

  • Draft legislative language, policy memoranda, briefing materials, presentations, hearing testimony, and position papers.

  • Support and manage the company’s political action committee with strong attention to detail for compliance and execution.

  • Partner with cross-functional leaders across the company to drive special projects and ensure timely, high-quality execution.

We’re looking for someone who has:

  • 2-5 years of experience on Capitol Hill or in the executive branch, in policy and legislative analysis, or issue advocacy.

  • Strong familiarity with the federal legislative process, including Appropriations and Authorization.

  • Knowledge of autonomy, emerging technologies, and defense technology policy.

  • Strong organizational skills and close attention to detail to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

  • A demonstrated track record of strong execution and follow-through and results-driven mentality.

  • A practical, team-oriented, and customer-centric mindset and a willingness to take on tasks at any level.

  • A sense of humor.

  • “Can-do” attitude–no task is too small.

Nice to have:

  • Experience in Congressional engagement, advocacy, or political strategy.

  • Experience with PAC management or political campaigns and fundraising.

  • Graduate degree with a focus on legislative process, technology, or defense.

  • Technical background, particularly related to autonomy or artificial intelligence.

  • Experience with the Google suite of tools in addition to AI tools for increased productivity.

  • Active Security Clearance

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.

Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position.

Please reference the job posting subtitle for where this position will be located. For pay transparency purposes, the base salary range for this full-time position in the location listed is: $80,000 to $140,000 USD annually.