Head of Federal

About the role

Drive early federal traction: Own the development of BD pipelines with DoD, NASA, DOE, and other federal agencies
Lead proposals and contracting strategy: Shape responses to OTAs, SBIR/STTR, BAAs, and other acquisition vehicles for prototype technologies
Engage decision-makers and program leads: Build deep, trusted relationships across federal energy, defense, and R&D institutions
Coordinate internal + external stakeholders: Manage consultants, lobbyists, grant writers, and regulatory affairs teams as needed
Act as a market intelligence engine: Translate developments in nuclear regulation, federal energy policy, and agency budgets into strategic direction
Contribute to product-market fit: Work with technical teams to shape the STARFALL roadmap around real-world federal use cases
Be the face of Mersenne in DC and beyond: Represent us at key conferences, hearings, working groups, and white-paper collaborations

Responsibilities

• Drive early federal traction: Own the development of BD pipelines with DoD, NASA, DOE, and other federal agencies
• Lead proposals and contracting strategy: Shape responses to OTAs, SBIR/STTR, BAAs, and other acquisition vehicles for prototype technologies
• Engage decision-makers and program leads: Build deep, trusted relationships across federal energy, defense, and R&D institutions
• Coordinate internal + external stakeholders: Manage consultants, lobbyists, grant writers, and regulatory affairs teams as needed
• Act as a market intelligence engine: Translate developments in nuclear regulation, federal energy policy, and agency budgets into strategic direction
• Contribute to product-market fit: Work with technical teams to shape the STARFALL roadmap around real-world federal use cases
• Be the face of Mersenne in DC and beyond: Represent us at key conferences, hearings, working groups, and white-paper collaborations

Requirements

8+ years of federal BD experience in national security, defense tech, energy, or dual-use startups
Demonstrated success closing complex deals or securing multi-million-dollar contracts with federal agencies (P&L ownership)
Deep familiarity with federal acquisition paths, including OTAs, FAR, CRADAs, and prototype pathways
Experience working with or within agencies like DoD, DOE, NASA, DHS, or national labs
Comfort operating in pre-Series A or startup environments — wearing multiple hats, navigating ambiguity, and building systems from scratch
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to synthesize technical narratives into strategic, policy-aligned messages
Networked in the DC/federal energy ecosystem, or with stakeholders in defense innovation and nuclear regulatory reform

Qualifications

Background in nuclear energy, microreactors, or advanced energy systems
Experience working with or advising the National Labs, NRC, or legislative staff on energy-related policy
Familiarity with lunar and space-based energy initiatives (NASA, DARPA LunA-10, etc.)
Previous experience building early-stage GTM or federal programs at Anduril, Palantir, Oklo, Radiant, X-energy, Kairos, etc.
Public affairs or policy advisory experience, especially in energy resilience, climate tech, or national security

Skills

Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills
Strategic thinking and ability to navigate complex regulatory and procurement pathways
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to translate technical concepts into strategic, policy-aligned messages

Benefits

Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible working hours and remote work options
Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
Collaborative and inclusive work environment

Pay

TBD

Schedule

Hybrid (Virginia, USA, Washington, DC)