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Radiant is a fast-growing hard-tech startup building the world's first mass-produced, portable nuclear microreactors. The company's flagship product, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor designed for rapid deployment to hospitals, data centers, remote sites, and military bases, capable of running for up to 5 years without refueling. Founded in 2020, Radiant is preparing for first reactor testing at Idaho National Laboratory and initial customer deliveries in 2028.
The California Legislative Director will own state and local government engagement across California and priority states, working at the intersection of aerospace, defense, and energy policy. This is a hands-on, outcome-driven role focused on shaping policy, enabling deployment, and unlocking sites where state and local decisions directly impact Radiant's ability to build and operate.
Key responsibilities include developing and implementing state legislation, regulations, rulemakings, and executive actions affecting industrial siting, permitting of power generation assets, grid interconnection, and critical infrastructure. You will lead company engagement with state regulators and public utility commissions, represent the company in hearings and industry forums, and hire and manage external lobbyists and advisors to align with company goals. The role requires close cross-functional collaboration with engineering, regulatory, legal, policy, communications, and operations teams to translate complex technical concepts into clear policy positions. You will track and actively shape state-level policy developments, provide actionable guidance to leadership, and ensure compliance with state ethics, lobbying, and disclosure requirements.
Required qualifications include 5+ years of experience in California government affairs, public policy, regulatory engagement, or related roles in energy, defense, aerospace, or other highly regulated industries. You must demonstrate a proven ability to influence state-level policy or regulatory outcomes, not merely monitor them, with strong understanding of California legislative processes, regulatory bodies, and permitting environments. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating in ambiguity and fast-moving environments with limited precedent, and is a clear, confident communicator who can work equally well with policymakers and engineers.
Desired qualifications include experience working in or closely with state government, regulatory agencies, or governor's offices; familiarity with energy markets, grid integration, industrial permitting, or large-scale infrastructure projects; and experience supporting site selection, facility development, or first-of-a-kind deployments. The role requires willingness to work extended hours and weekends as necessary. Position is 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA, or remote from Sacramento, CA for the right candidate.
