Manager, State Government Affairs

Bechtel•Houston, DC

2d•$153,600 - $234,300•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager of State Government Affairs is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing strategies to support Bechtel’s objectives with state legislatures and executive branch officials. Focus states include Texas, Louisiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Washington, Wyoming, and Virginia; for policies related to Energy, Permitting, Technology, Tax, Workforce, and Economic Development. This role will coordinate closely with business and project personnel, Business Development, Communications, and Government Affairs. This role will have primary responsibility with Texas and Louisiana, with strategy and coordination responsibilities across multiple states. This role can be based in our Houston, TX office or in Washington, DC. This role is approved for Part-Time Telework (current policy requires 3 days per week in office). This role reports to and receives functional direction from the VP & Manager of Bechtel’s Washington, D.C. office.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, international relations, or a related field, and 12+ years’ experience in government affairs, policy development, or related role with a focus on state government.
Deep understanding of state government, legislative, budgeting, and regulatory processes and potential impacts to Bechtel's interests.
Analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills; exceptional written and verbal communication abilities; demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with government officials and industry leaders.
Highly collaborative and team-oriented.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Applies strategic understanding of government processes, regulations, and relationships; is a proactive communicator, skilled in advocacy and adept at fostering partnerships with key stakeholders; responsible for development of strategy, capabilities, and resources to advise business leaders.
Builds framework for advocacy and engagement strategies to align organizational goals, in line with legislative, regulatory, and policy developments. Supports all business lines and business development leaders across the states, with a focus on major projects.
Build and maintain the strategy across Bechtel’s business lines to develop strong relationships with relevant state government agencies and associated organizations, congressional committees, policymakers, and industry groups. Develop Bechtel’s approach to state-level government-related conferences, hearings, and industry events.
Provide policy recommendations and contribute to legislative and regulatory proposals related to Energy, Permitting, Technology, Economic Development, and other relevant topics.
Support Bechtel project teams to develop state Government Affairs strategies; ensure a consistent approach across all business lines, unique to each state and business profile.
Work closely with internal departments, including legal, political compliance, and communications teams, to ensure alignment on policy priorities, messaging and compliance. Coordinate with external partners, such as contractors and industry associations.