Executive Director of Public Affairs (Sacramento, CA or Phoenix, AZ)

Be part of a team that values safety, diversity, and excellence

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.  

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!

Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits

Job Location: Sacramento
Other Potential Locations: Sacramento, CA; Phoenix, AZ 
Anticipated Start Date: 04/16/2025
Number of Positions: 1 
Salary Range: $155,00 - $175,000

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

The BNSF Railway Public Affairs Department participates in managing internal and external communications, handling media relations, and supporting community interactions. This team ensures clear, consistent messaging and fosters positive relationships with the policy makers, the public and stakeholders. Their efforts are crucial in maintaining BNSF's reputation and community engagement.

This position is responsible for developing, representing, and implementing policy positions regarding state and local legislative matters in California and Arizona. Additionally, this role includes monitoring and potentially engaging in policy issues in Nevada and Utah.

This is a full-time position located in either Sacramento, CA or Phoenix, AZ. For certain positions, including this one, employees can work one day per week remotely. Our leaders also foster a culture where work life balance, which requires flexibility for when life happens, is important and respected. 

Travel is frequent, and as needed, mostly to and from California and Arizona.

Key responsibilities may include: 

• Representing BNSF at legislative, agency and political functions.
• Monitoring and analyzing the effect of legislative and agency actions to BNSF.
• Developing and executing legislative strategies.
• Advising, consulting, and coordinating with various company departments on legislative and regulatory matters.
• Establishing and maintaining effective relationships with state legislatures, regulatory agencies, local and regional governments, and trade associations/special interest groups.
• Working on multiple issues and community efforts with the BNSF’s federal government affairs and corporate relations groups.
• Preparing and reviewing legislative status reports for senior leaders.
• Coordinating and leading railroad colleagues, consultants, trade association, and others on railroad issues.
• Arranging and participating in political fundraising events and coordinating efforts of contract lobbyists.
• Effectively communicate internally and externally with stakeholders, media, customers and community members

Daily work is conducted in an indoor office environment. When travel may be an option, work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, walking around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

Relocation assistance may be available based on business need.  

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position’s duties.   

At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Basic Qualifications: 

• Able to work in the US without company sponsorship now AND in the future. 
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of five years’ experience in regulatory or legislative processes involving federal or state government, experience working with federal, state, and local agencies, and/or legislatures.
• Proficient in negotiating, relationship-building, communications (written and oral), and presentation skills.
• Eagerness to participate in community activities on behalf of BNSF.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree or other relevant graduate degree.
• Understanding of transportation issues, including train operations and marketing.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:

• An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
• A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
• Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
• Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
• Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
• Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
• Generous leave / time off policies.
• For more information, visit Benefits.

All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process.  Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC.  More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic

BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

SF: MO | [[mfield5]] | Law | Sacramento, CA | 94203

Salary : $15,500 - $175,000