Director of Public Policy

Umbra builds next-generation space systems that observe the Earth in unprecedented fidelity.

Our mission: Deliver global omniscience.

To stay ahead of climate change, geopolitical risk, and other major crises and issues, we need a global understanding of what is changing, where, and how fast. Umbra provides easy access to the highest quality commercial satellite data available, which is an indispensable tool for the growing number of organizations monitoring the Earth. We empower our customers to create solutions that inform, inspire, and address our planet's most pressing needs. We're helping to create a brand new industry that has never meaningfully existed before.

Umbra is seeking a strategic and experienced Director of Public Policy to manage our engagement with government stakeholders, monitor and influence policy developments, and support the company in key industry associations and forums. This individual will identify opportunities for engagement, track and advance policies that support Umbra's business and mission—particularly in the areas of defense, space, and national security.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a policymaking or legislative role within government, along with a deep understanding of the regulatory and political forces shaping the aerospace and defense landscape. They will proactively evaluate shifting dynamics and help advocate for policy frameworks that support Umbra's strategic priorities. As a key member of Umbra's Communications team, this individual will ensure alignment between policy engagement, strategic messaging, and public affairs efforts.

Our aim is to hire this position to work in Umbra's Arlington, VA office. Therefore, this role requires residency in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia (DMV) area and comfort navigating the intersection of government, industry, and advanced space technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and implement public policy strategy that aligns with Umbra's organizational objectives and advocacy initiatives.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on legislative, regulatory, and political developments that impact Umbra's interests.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, industry stakeholders, and relevant advocacy groups.
• Prepare briefing documents, position papers, and presentations for senior leadership and external engagement.
• Coordinate with the Head of Communications to develop and execute outreach campaigns on priority issues, including defense and space policy.
• Represent Umbra in policy forums, coalition efforts, and association engagements.
• Draft policy positions, talking points, and briefing materials for internal and external use.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Must reside in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia (DMV) area.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in public policy, law, political science, or a related field preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in public policy, including direct experience in a government policy-making role (e.g., legislative staffer, regulatory agency, executive branch position).
• Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. government processes and space, defense, or technology policy issues.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Proven ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies.

Desired Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in public policy, including direct experience in a government policy-making role (e.g., legislative staffer, regulatory agency, executive branch position).
• Established network of contacts within government agencies and relevant non-governmental organizations.
• Experience in managing teams effectively and fostering collaborative relationships.
• A demonstrated track record of success in advocating for policy initiatives or regulatory changes.

Why Join Us

At Umbra, you'll join a team of bold thinkers and builders who are redefining what's possible in and through space. We are mission-driven, fast-moving, and deeply collaborative—working on technologies that matter and solving problems that few others can.

As a key member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to help shape public policy at the highest levels, contribute to a rapidly growing space company, and work alongside people who are passionate about impact, innovation, and integrity.

We offer a flexible and supportive environment where high performance is matched by high trust—and where your contributions directly influence the future of space-based intelligence.

If you're excited by meaningful work, Umbra is the place for you .

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
• Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
• 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
• Stock Options
• Free Parking
• Free lunch in office daily

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Employment Eligibility Verification

In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.

ITAR/EAR Requirements

This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.

Pay Transparency This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role's function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.

Compensation Range

The Compensation Range for this role is $195,000 - $235,000 DOE.