Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs

Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs

Parallel Systems is seeking a Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs to lead our engagement with policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders across the federal and state landscape.  

This role will develop and implement Parallel’s regulatory and legislative strategy, with a focus on advancing policies that support the deployment of autonomous rail technology. 

You’ll serve as the company’s primary advocate with (1) the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) and other key federal agencies, (2) federal elected officials, (3) state agencies, such as DOTs, and state elected officials, and (4) local elected officials and stakeholders to support the implementation of Parallel’s products and services. 

Key goals will include passing enabling legislation and unlocking public funding opportunities. Your work will help establish the frameworks that allow Parallel’s technology to scale safely and effectively across the U.S.  

Responsibilities 

• Lead advocacy efforts with the FRA and related federal and state agencies to shape regulations and policy around autonomous rail vehicles. 
• Monitor and influence federal and state legislation relevant to transportation, autonomy, safety, and infrastructure modernization. 
• Develop and execute strategies to secure public funding and grant opportunities, including competitive federal and state discretionary programs. 
• Represent Parallel in discussions with federal and state legislators, transportation officials, and regulatory working groups. 
• Build strong coalitions with industry stakeholders, trade associations, and public sector partners to advance aligned priorities. 
• Build local relationships with key stakeholders where Parallel’s customers will implement our products and services. 
• Collaborate with internal legal, engineering, and operations teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and alignment of technical development with evolving policy. 
• Provide strategic counsel to leadership on regulatory trends, political dynamics, and risk mitigation. 
• Coordinate with communications and marketing to frame external messaging related to public policy and community engagement. 

Requirements 

• 10+ years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or regulatory strategy, with a strong track record of influencing policy at both the federal and state levels. 
• Deep knowledge of U.S. transportation and infrastructure policy, especially FRA regulations and federal rail programs. 
• Experience (1) serving on or working closely with the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and/or Senate Commerce Committee or (2) serving on or working closely with the FRA and/or U.S. DOT on the development of transportation policies, rulemakings and/or regulations. 
• Expertise in public funding mechanisms, including federal grant programs (e.g., INFRA, CRISI, RAISE) and state infrastructure funding programs. 
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with legislators, regulators, and industry leaders. 
• Excellent strategic communication and advocacy skills. 
• Bachelor’s degree required 
• Position is located in Washington, D.C. 

Preferred 

• Advanced degree in public policy, law, or a related field. 
• Experience in autonomous vehicle policy and legislation.