Job Description

Overview

Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs Parallel Systems

Parallel Systems is seeking a Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs to lead engagement with policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders across federal and state landscapes. This role will develop and implement Parallels regulatory and legislative strategy, focusing on advancing policies that support the deployment of autonomous rail technology. You will serve as the companys primary advocate with federal agencies (e.g., FRA, U.S. DOT) and other key officials, state agencies, and local stakeholders to support the implementation of Parallels products and services. A key goal is to help pass enabling legislation and unlock public funding opportunities to scale Parallels technology safely and effectively across the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Lead advocacy efforts with the FRA and related federal and state agencies to shape regulations and policy around autonomous rail vehicles.
• Monitor and influence federal and state legislation relevant to transportation, autonomy, safety, and infrastructure modernization.
• Develop and execute strategies to secure public funding and grant opportunities, including competitive federal and state discretionary programs.
• Represent Parallel in discussions with federal and state legislators, transportation officials, and regulatory working groups.
• Build strong coalitions with industry stakeholders, trade associations, and public sector partners to advance aligned priorities.
• Build local relationships with key stakeholders where Parallels customers will implement our products and services.
• Collaborate with internal legal, engineering, and operations teams to ensure regulatory compliance and alignment of technical development with evolving policy.
• Provide strategic counsel to leadership on regulatory trends, political dynamics, and risk mitigation.
• Coordinate with communications and marketing to frame external messaging related to public policy and community engagement.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or regulatory strategy with a track record of influencing policy at federal and state levels.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. transportation and infrastructure policy, especially FRA regulations and federal rail programs.
• Experience (1) serving on or working with the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and/or Senate Commerce Committee, or (2) collaborating with the FRA and/or U.S. DOT on transportation policy development, rulemakings, or regulations.
• Expertise in public funding mechanisms, including federal grants (e.g., INFRA, CRISI, RAISE) and state programs.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with legislators, regulators, and industry leaders.
• Excellent strategic communication and advocacy skills.
• Bachelors degree required
• Position located in Washington, D.C.

Preferred

• Advanced degree in public policy, law, or related field.
• Experience in autonomous vehicle policy and legislation.

Compensation

Target Salary Range: $200,000$400,000 USD. Parallel Systems is committed to fair and transparent compensation in accordance with applicable laws. Final compensation will be determined during the interview process and may vary based on skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

Location

Washington, D.C.

Equal Opportunity

Parallel Systems is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any discriminatory factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. We strive to build an inclusive environment in which all people can do their best work. We also provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities during the application or interview process. If accommodations are needed, please contact your recruiter.

We are committed to unlocking community knowledge and ensuring accessible information for all applicants.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs