State Public Policy Manager

Who we are:

The Association for Competitive Technology (ACT) represents startups and small business innovators leveraging software and connected devices to solve problems in a wide range of industries. Our members are mostly small tech companies, powered by passionate teams creating apps and devices that improve lives, foster creativity, and connect the world. You probably already use some of their apps, devices, or artificial intelligence (AI) tools every day.

At ACT, we pride ourselves on being professional, collaborative, and effective. Our team leads the conversation on key policy issues impacting small tech firms and startups, such as antitrust, privacy, kids’ online safety, AI, digital health, and workforce development. Together, we champion policies that empower small business innovators to thrive.

Who you are:

You’re passionate about technology and policy and eager to make a meaningful impact on the future of innovation. You are curious, proactive, and thrive on tackling challenges in a rapidly evolving environment. You are a strong writer and researcher, comfortable managing deadlines, and experienced in engaging with state government bodies such as legislatures, attorney general offices, and commerce departments.

You’re also an excellent communicator who enjoys representing your organization in external settings like roundtables, task forces, hearings, and conferences. If you’re motivated, dependable, and eager to take ownership of projects with a collaborative spirit and a commitment to advancing the interests of small businesses in the tech world, this is the role for you.

What you’ll do:

• Advocate for innovation: Develop and execute advocacy strategies on pressing policy issues such as privacy, antitrust, digital health, kids’ safety, and cybersecurity.
• Craft policy ideas: Research and draft compelling policy materials, including letters, testimonies, talking points, and filings, tailored to state-level engagements.
• Represent ACT: Travel frequently to state capitals and professional organization gatherings to build relationships with policymakers and represent the organization in a range of settings, including roundtables, task forces, hearings, and conferences.
• Collaborate with stakeholders: Work closely with coalitions, member companies, and external advocates to advance shared policy objectives.
• Adapt to evolving issues: Stay ahead of state legislative trends and ensure our advocacy efforts remain timely and impactful.

What we’re looking for:

• Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to produce reliable, persuasive content.
• Familiarity with state legislative, enforcement, and administrative processes.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• A collaborative mindset.
• Knowledge of technology policy issues and their unique impact on small business innovators.
• A self-starter who thrives in managing multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to build and foster relationships with stakeholders, public officials, and industry partners.
• Demonstrated active relationships with state officials are a plus, but not required.
• A JD or advanced degree is a plus, but not required.

Even if you don’t check all of these boxes, we encourage you to apply if you feel you can be a key contributor to the team.

Work schedule:

In-person work required: This position requires working  three days per week in our Washington, DC , office, with flexibility for the other two days.

The details you’ll love:

Travel: Approximately 20% of the year (~75 days annually).

Salary: the anticipated range for this role is $80,000–$90,000 annually. However, this number is subject to change based on experience and ability to immediately effectuate change.

Impact: Play a key role in shaping policies that empower small business innovators in the tech industry.

Why join us?

At ACT, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team making a difference in the fast-evolving world of technology policy. You’ll have the opportunity to grow professionally, collaborate with industry leaders, and contribute to meaningful change on behalf of small business innovators across the country.

We can’t wait to meet you!