Policy & Government Relations Analyst

Vast is looking for a Policy & Government Relations Analyst, reporting to the Director Special Programs, to support the company's government affairs strategy through research, analysis, and coordination across local, state, and federal engagement. This role will play a critical part in strengthening Vast's presence in the commercial space sector, tracking policy and budget developments in Washington, and producing high-quality written materials that support Vast's broader government affairs and business development objectives.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

Responsibilities: 

• Support Vast's local government relations strategy in Long Beach and the broader Southern California region, including engagement with city officials, local economic development organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Represent Vast at local government meetings, community events, and regional industry forums as needed.
• Conduct research and analysis on federal, state, and local policy, legislation, and regulatory developments relevant to Vast's business.
• Track and summarize the congressional appropriations process, budget cycles, and NDAA developments impacting commercial space priorities.
• Draft policy briefs, talking points, legislative summaries, and other written materials for internal and external use.
• Produce and maintain a recurring government affairs newsletter to keep internal stakeholders informed on relevant policy, legislative, and local developments.
• Support proposal writing efforts in coordination with Business Development, including narrative content related to government affairs and policy positioning.
• Support tracking and management of the federal budget, appropriations, and NDAA processes as they relate to Vast's priorities.
• Support staff outreach and scheduling for congressional, agency, and local government meetings, including coordination of logistics and follow-ups.
• Build and maintain an organized database of relevant contacts across local, state, and federal government, congressional offices, and industry stakeholders.
• Coordinate briefing materials and preparation for meetings with policymakers and government stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to translate complex policy topics into clear, concise materials.
• Excellent organizational skills with experience managing multiple projects, contacts, and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience with or understanding of the congressional appropriations and NDAA processes.
• Experience in local government relations or community engagement, ideally within the Long Beach or broader Southern California region.
• Experience supporting proposal writing or business development efforts.
• Experience building and maintaining stakeholder or contact databases.
• Interest or experience in commercial space, aerospace, defense technology, or national security policy.
• Self-starter with strong time-management skills and the ability to adapt to shifting priorities

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel occasionally to support local and federal government engagements.
• Ability to obtain appropriate security clearance, if required, to support national security space programs.