POSITION SUMMARY:

The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), based in Arlington, VA, has been a leading voice for the American aerospace and defense industry for over 100 years. We’re hiring a Director of Technical Policy to support our Engineering & Technology division. This role will lead policy efforts across engineering management, product support, and quality assurance, working closely with AIA committees and stakeholders to shape national policy and industry standards.
This position reports to the Vice President of Engineering & Technology. The median salary for this role is $140,000 annually.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, public policy, or a related field. An advanced degree, preferred.
• 6 years of experience in policy development, with a focus on technical policy issues and challenges.
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in at least one technical domain such as digital thread, quality assurance, or engineering practice.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work collegially with others and with the highest standards of integrity, contributing to a positive organizational culture.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills, with the ability to lead and motivate a diverse and high-performing team.
• Proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including government and regulatory agencies, industry associations, and other policy organizations.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.

To Apply, please send the following documents to jobs@aia-aerospace.org:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Director of Technical Policy, Engineering & Technology is a strategic leader with expertise in space, national defense, and civil aerospace markets. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to build consensus among aviation industry stakeholders. Success depends on influencing without direct authority, and candidates should be able to share examples of applying this skill effectively.
The Director will lead technical policy discussions with industry, government, and regulatory stakeholders, develop consensus-based positions, and support advocacy through proposals and communication materials. They will also monitor relevant legislation, represent AIA in policy forums, and maintain relationships with key decision-makers.
Internally, the Director will coordinate across AIA divisions to ensure consistent messaging and collaboration, including enhancing information exchange, supporting cross-functional initiatives, and aligning technical efforts with organizational objectives.