Government Affairs Liaison

Mesa Quantum Systems•Albuquerque, NM

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are establishing a new quantum hardware testing and qualification presence in Albuquerque, NM. The Government Affairs Liaison will serve as the company’s local representative to federal laboratories, defense agencies, research institutions, and regional government stakeholders. This role supports strategic engagement, partnership development, and alignment with research, defense, and economic development initiatives, including participation in large-scale federal programs and defense-driven technology efforts. The position is located in Albuquerque due to proximity to key institutional partners and reports functionally to headquarters leadership in Colorado.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in policy, business, engineering, science, or related field preferred
5–10+ years experience in government relations, federal research environments, defense ecosystems, technology commercialization, or related roles
Demonstrated experience working with federal laboratories, defense agencies, major federal programs, or prime contractors
Understanding of large-scale federal and defense initiative structures and engagement pathways
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to translate technical concepts into clear strategic messaging
High level of discretion and professionalism

Nice To Haves

Experience within the New Mexico federal and defense research ecosystem
Familiarity with cooperative research agreements, SBIR/STTR programs, OTA agreements, or federal funding mechanisms
Background in advanced technology sectors such as photonics, quantum, semiconductor, aerospace, or defense
Experience interfacing with large-scale defense modernization or technology transition initiatives

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary local point of contact for federal laboratories, defense agencies, research institutions, and regional stakeholders
Maintain and develop relationships within the New Mexico research, defense, and innovation ecosystem
Monitor relevant federal funding opportunities, agency initiatives, defense programs, and policy developments
Support coordination of cooperative research agreements, facility access arrangements, and partnership discussions
Engage with prime contractors and large-scale federal or defense initiatives where aligned with company strategy
Provide strategic feedback to headquarters leadership regarding regional developments and engagement opportunities
Represent the company at technical, defense-oriented, and policy-focused meetings and events
Ensure messaging consistency with company strategy and technical positioning