State Government Affairs Lead (northeast Region)

OpenAI OpenAI · AI Frontier · New York, NY · Global Affairs

This role focuses on government affairs and public policy engagement at the state and local level in the Northeast region for OpenAI. The individual will build relationships with government officials and stakeholders, shape regional strategies, and advise internal teams on policy developments related to AI. While technical knowledge of AI is desirable, the core function is policy and advocacy, not direct AI/ML development or deployment.

What you'd actually do

  1. Develop and maintain relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, local government representatives, and other key stakeholders across your assigned states.
  2. Serve as primary representative of OpenAI’s policy interests in the Northeast and help shape regional strategies that advance OpenAI’s broader policy goals and mission.
  3. Prepare OpenAI leaders for engagements with government officials, and represent OpenAI in private and public forums across the region.
  4. Advise internal teams on state and local-level opportunities, risks, and policy developments.
  5. Collaborate with civil society and industry partners.

Skills

Required

  • deep familiarity with state and local government policies and processes
  • strategic coalition builder and campaign manager
  • highly organized, accountable, and capable of leading complex campaigns and initiatives
  • experience managing private sector and civil society relationships
  • experience advocating at the state government level
  • strong experience in technology policy

Nice to have

  • Technical knowledge related to generative AI models
  • Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the U.S. political system, institutions, and processes
  • Experience managing consultants at the state level
  • Track record of effectively working with cross-functional teams, especially engineering and research teams
  • Sound judgment and outstanding personal integrity
  • Ability to execute in fast and flexible environments
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
  • Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills
  • Genuine care and knowledge about the impact of technology on society
  • Previous work on AI issues and technical AI development expertise

What the JD emphasized

  • significant state government advocacy experience
  • sophisticated understanding of AI-related legislative and regulatory issues and processes
  • Technical knowledge related to generative AI models is highly desirable