Manager, State Government Affairs

Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:

Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.

Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.

Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report. 

Job Summary:

The Manager of State Government Affairs is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing strategies to support Bechtel’s objectives with state legislatures and executive branch officials. Focus states include Texas, Louisiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Washington, Wyoming, and Virginia; for policies related to Energy, Permitting, Technology, Tax, Workforce, and Economic Development. This role will coordinate closely with business and project personnel, Business Development, Communications, and Government Affairs. This role will have primary responsibility with Texas and Louisiana, with strategy and coordination responsibilities across multiple states.

*This role can be based in our Houston, TX office or in Washington, DC. This role is approved for Part-Time Telework (current policy requires 3 days per week in office).

This role reports to and receives functional direction from the VP & Manager of Bechtel’s Washington, D.C. office.

Major Responsibilities:

The Manager of State Government Affairs applies strategic understanding of government processes, regulations, and relationships; is a proactive communicator, skilled in advocacy and adept at fostering partnerships with key stakeholders; responsible for development of strategy, capabilities, and resources to advise business leaders.

• State Government Relations Strategy: Builds framework for advocacy and engagement strategies to align organizational goals, in line with legislative, regulatory, and policy developments. Supports all business lines and business development leaders across the states, with a focus on major projects.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain the strategy across Bechtel’s business lines to develop strong relationships with relevant state government agencies and associated organizations, congressional committees, policymakers, and industry groups. Develop Bechtel’s approach to state-level government-related conferences, hearings, and industry events.

• Advocacy and Policy Development: Provide policy recommendations and contribute to legislative and regulatory proposals related to Energy, Permitting, Technology, Economic Development, and other relevant topics.

• Build Capabilities: Support Bechtel project teams to develop state Government Affairs strategies; ensure a consistent approach across all business lines, unique to each state and business profile.

• Collaboration Across Teams: Work closely with internal departments, including legal, political compliance, and communications teams, to ensure alignment on policy priorities, messaging and compliance. Coordinate with external partners, such as contractors and industry associations.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, international relations, or a related field, and 12+ years’ experience in government affairs, policy development, or related role with a focus on state government.

• Advanced degree preferred.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep understanding of state government, legislative, budgeting, and regulatory processes and potential impacts to Bechtel's interests.

• Analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills; exceptional written and verbal communication abilities; demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with government officials and industry leaders.

• Highly collaborative and team-oriented.

Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive.  Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards

Diverse teams build the extraordinary:

As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.

We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.