About You:You are a policy and regulatory strategist with a strong interest in aviation, autonomy, and emerging technologies. You understand how policy, regulation, and government stakeholders shape the adoption of new technologies-and you know how to navigate and influence that landscape effectively.
You are comfortable operating at the intersection of government, industry, and technical teams. You can translate complex regulatory frameworks into clear business implications and help shape strategies that enable safe, scalable deployment.
You are proactive, highly collaborative, and able to operate both strategically and tactically-driving policy initiatives forward while supporting broader company objectives.
Responsibilities:- Support the development and execution of Merlin'spublic policy and regulatory strategy, in alignment with corporate and product strategy
>
- Monitor, analyze, and interpretpolicy and regulatory developmentsrelevant to autonomous aviation, AI, and safety-critical systems
>
- Engage withgovernment stakeholders, regulators, and industry groupsto support favorable policy outcomes
>
- Partner with internal teams (Engineering, Programs, Business Development) to ensure alignment betweentechnical development and regulatory requirements
>
- Help shape Merlin's positioning on key topics includingautonomy, certification, safety, and airspace integration
>
- Develop clear, concise materials to communicate policy positions tointernal leadership, external stakeholders, and industry forums
>
- Support strategy related toFAA certification pathways and government program alignment
>
- Contribute tocross-functional strategic initiativeswhere policy and regulation are critical enablers
>
- Track and assess risks and opportunities in the evolving regulatory environment and provideactionable insights to leadership
>
Requirements:- 6-10+ years of experience inpublic policy, government affairs, regulatory strategy, or related roles
>
- Experience inaviation, aerospace, defense, technology policy, or other regulated industries
>
- Familiarity withU.S. regulatory frameworks, particularly in aviation, safety, or emerging technologies
>
- Strong ability to analyze complex policy issues and translate them intobusiness-relevant insights
>
- Experience engaging withgovernment agencies, regulators, or industry associations
>
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience developingpolicy briefs and executive materials
>
- Ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders across technical and business teams
>
Nice to Haves:- Experience withFAA, DoD, or other aviation and defense-related agencies
>
- Familiarity withautonomous systems, AI policy, or advanced air mobility
>
- Background inlegislative, regulatory, or industry advocacy roles
>
- Experience working in or withhigh-growth or venture-backed companies
>
- Understanding ofcertification processes and safety frameworksin aviation
>
- Strong network withinrelevant policy and regulatory communities
>
Merlin Labs offers an innovative, entrepreneurial, and team-focused startup environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, unlimited vacation, and 401k with match) and work/life integration. Being part of the Merlin team allows you to become part of a small team that supports professional development while working together to achieve our mission.
