What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Policy Advisor – National Security & Defense position at Emerge Talent?
Senior Policy Advisor – National Security & Defense
Location: Washington, D.C.
A leading federal affairs and public policy team is seeking a Senior Policy Advisor with more than ten years of experience in national security and defense policy to join its bipartisan lobbying and public policy practice. This is a high-impact, client-facing role for a senior professional who brings both policy fluency and government experience to the table.
What You’ll Do
You’ll advise corporate and institutional clients on legislative, regulatory, and policy strategies in the national security and defense sectors. Responsibilities include:
Monitoring and analyzing legislation, appropriations, and regulatory activity related to defense, security, and supply chain issues
Developing and executing advocacy strategies before Congress, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies
Drafting policy briefs, client memos, talking points, and communications
Advising clients on the national security implications of federal procurement, foreign investment, export controls, and industrial base policy
Supporting clients through the full spectrum of defense budget and authorization cycles
What We’re Looking For
10 years of experience in national security policy, legislative affairs, or defense strategy
Capitol Hill experience strongly preferred, particularly with relevant committees of jurisdiction (e.g., HASC, SASC, Appropriations, Intelligence)
Experience with an executive branch agency involved in national security policy (e.g., DoD, DHS, State, or NSC) is a strong plus and may substitute for Hill experience
Bachelor’s degree required; JD or Master’s degree highly preferred
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Strategic thinker with a client-first approach and collaborative mindset
Familiarity with legislative process, regulatory frameworks, and national security compliance requirements
Why This Role?
Join a prestigious, full-service policy team that combines legal, lobbying, and regulatory expertise to deliver strategic outcomes for top-tier clients. You’ll work alongside a bipartisan group of respected professionals, including former members of Congress, military officers, and senior federal officials. The work is dynamic, mission-driven, and at the center of issues that define national security strategy and innovation.