Director of US Government Engagement

At Q-CTRL, the Government Engagement team works at the intersection of policy, international engagement, and national security to influence how governments govern and fund the development and adoption of quantum technologies. As trusted and respected leaders in the sector, we build enduring relationships with politicians, policymakers, and defense forces around the world to secure opportunities for Q-CTRL to deliver cutting-edge sovereign capability. We empower all areas of the business to understand and navigate government decision-making.

Develop and execute Q-CTRL’s US government engagement strategy, setting clear priorities for policy, legislative, and funding outcomes that support our growth and the adoption of quantum technologies.

Build and maintain trusted, bipartisan relationships with congressional offices and committees, the Department of War, federal agencies and state governments.

Serve as a trusted representative of company interests in political and policy forums, including engagements supporting business development with the USG.

Shape policy, legislation, and funding decisions through targeted advocacy, including developing proposals for authorization and appropriations processes and building support among key decision-makers.

Work closely with business development and technical colleagues to identify, assess, and secure government funding and partnership opportunities, connecting Q-CTRL’s capabilities with government priorities and mission needs.

Monitor and anticipate policy, legislative, budget, and regulatory developments, translating them into timely advice and recommended actions for company leadership.

Represent Q-CTRL in industry associations, think tanks, and policy forums, building coalitions that advance shared priorities and establish Q-CTRL as a trusted voice on quantum technology.

Other duties within the Employee's skills and experience, or with reasonable training.

7+ years of relevant experience in government, congressional affairs, public policy, or government relations, for example as a congressional staffer, government official, military officer, or lobbyist.

A demonstrated track record of shaping government decisions, with tangible achievements in policy development, legislation, or public funding.

A strong understanding of US federal policymaking and the legislative, authorization, appropriations, and agency budget processes, including when and how to engage effectively.

An established network across Capitol Hill, the executive branch, key federal departments, and the ability to build trusted relationships across political affiliations and institutions.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to turn complex technical information into clear, persuasive arguments tailored to government audiences.

A collaborative approach and the ability to work across business functions to raise Q-CTRL’s profile and secure commercial opportunities.

Experience working with the Department of War and congressional defense committees, including familiarity with defense budgets, acquisition pathways, and the transition of emerging technologies into operational use.

Experience working in a technology startup or scaleup, particularly in a role connecting government engagement with commercial growth.

Experience in the advanced technology, defense, or aerospace sectors.

Experience shaping policy or funding for quantum or other critical technologies, such as AI, semiconductors, space, or advanced sensing.

Experience with state government engagement, economic development initiatives, and allied technology cooperation through frameworks such as AUKUS.