Regulatory Counsel

Overview

An organization focused on advancing global connectivity through a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation is seeking an experienced Regulatory Counsel. This role involves leading domestic and international telecommunications regulatory strategy to support a rapidly growing global LEO satellite system. The counsel will advise executive leadership and cross-functional teams on complex regulatory matters related to satellite communications, spectrum management, licensing, and international market access.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and filing of applications, petitions, comments, reply comments, waivers, requests for special temporary authority (STA), experimental licenses, earth station authorizations, and related pleadings before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
• Advise internal stakeholders on regulatory issues including satellite licensing, earth station licensing, spectrum access and allocations, spectrum sharing, interference analysis, equipment authorization, and market access.
• Monitor FCC proceedings affecting satellite services, spectrum policy, Direct-to-Device (D2D), Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS), non-geostationary satellite systems (NGSO), mobile satellite service (MSS), fixed satellite service (FSS), and emerging commercial space regulations.
• Analyze FCC Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRMs), Orders, Public Notices, and enforcement actions.
• Develop legal and policy strategies to secure favorable regulatory outcomes.
• Draft ex parte presentations and represent the organization during FCC meetings.
• Support international market access for satellite services.
• Coordinate with foreign telecommunications regulators regarding licensing and landing rights.
• Collaborate with foreign counsel and consultants on licensing and spectrum authorizations.
• Advise on International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations and related international requirements.
• Support submissions to ITU and other international authorities.
• Assist with domestic and international spectrum coordination activities.
• Work closely with engineering teams to develop technical demonstrations and evidence supporting FCC and international filings.
• Provide practical legal advice to engineering, operations, product, regulatory, and business development teams.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of substantive experience in telecommunications law or policy, including private practice, in-house, or government service.
• Significant experience practicing before the FCC, including drafting and filing FCC submissions.
• Demonstrated expertise with the Communications Act, FCC Rules, ITU Radio Regulations, satellite and spectrum licensing frameworks, and foreign market access.
• Experience advising clients on satellite communications.
• Excellent legal writing and advocacy skills.
• Sound legal judgment in evolving regulatory environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited U.S. law school and active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
• Experience working with LEO satellite operators.
• Experience with international regulatory advocacy.
• Prior experience at the FCC, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), or Department of Defense (DOD).
• Experience collaborating with engineering teams on technical regulatory issues and understanding of RF engineering concepts.
• Current or previously held security clearance, or eligibility to obtain one.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $200,000 - $250,000 per year.
• Compensation is based on location, skills, expertise, relevant experience, and other factors.
• Benefits include competitive salaries, health and wellness care options, financial planning solutions, paid holidays, paid time off, optional legal services (U.S. only), and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Location

This position is located onsite in Arlington, Texas, or remote within the Washington, D.C. area. The role reports to the General Counsel or Head of Regulatory and Government Affairs.