How to apply for Director of State Policy

About Fathom

Fathom is an independent nonprofit focused on developing policy and technical solutions to ensure AI benefits society broadly and equitably. Unlike many think tanks, Fathom actively translates AI governance concepts into actionable state-level legislation, giving employees a direct hand in shaping real-world policy. Working here means joining a mission-driven team at the forefront of one of the most consequential technology policy debates of our time.

About the role

As Director of State Policy, you will lead Fathom’s state-level AI policy campaigns across a portfolio of priority states, from identifying legislative champions to testifying in hearings. You’ll draft model legislation, build diverse coalitions, and manage contract lobbyists, effectively serving as Fathom’s on-the-ground strategist in state capitals. This role is impactful because state legislatures are increasingly the battleground for AI regulation, and your work will directly shape how AI is governed in the U.S.

A typical day

A typical day might involve drafting testimony for an upcoming committee hearing in a priority state, hopping on a call with a contract lobbyist to strategize outreach to a key legislator, and coordinating with Fathom’s communications team on a press release about a new bill endorsement. You could also spend time building relationships with labor and industry stakeholders to secure support for model legislation, all while working remotely from your home office or traveling to a state capital.

Who Fathom is looking for

• 5+ years of experience in state government affairs, legislative staff roles, or state policy, with a proven track record of leading bills through state legislatures from introduction to passage.
• Deep understanding of AI governance concepts and the ability to translate complex technical and policy ideas into clear, persuasive language for legislators and staff.
• Strong coalition-building skills, with experience uniting industry, civil society, labor, and public-sector partners around shared policy goals.
• Experience managing contract lobbyists and consultants, and coordinating with communications and federal policy teams to align messaging and strategy.

Tips for this application

• Highlight specific bills you have helped pass at the state level, including your role, the strategies used, and the outcomes achieved—Fathom wants to see direct legislative impact.
• Demonstrate familiarity with AI policy debates by referencing recent state AI legislation or Fathom’s own policy positions in your application materials.
• Emphasize your ability to work remotely and manage relationships across multiple states, as this role requires independent travel and coordination.
• Show that you can translate technical AI concepts for non-expert audiences by providing examples of written testimony, model legislation, or briefing materials you’ve produced.
• Mention any experience managing lobbyists or consultants, as this is a key responsibility and a differentiator for this role.

What to cover in your cover letter

In your cover letter, focus on: (1) a specific example of a state bill you led from conception to passage, detailing your strategy and role; (2) your understanding of AI governance challenges and why state-level action is critical; (3) your experience building coalitions across diverse stakeholders, including labor, industry, and civil society; and (4) your ability to manage contract lobbyists and coordinate with communications teams to achieve policy wins.

Research before applying

• Review Fathom’s published policy papers, model legislation, and recent state campaign wins to understand their approach and priorities.
• Research recent AI-related bills in key states (e.g., California, Texas, New York, Colorado) to familiarize yourself with the legislative landscape and key players.
• Identify Fathom’s partner organizations and coalitions they’ve worked with, as well as their opponents, to understand the political dynamics.
• Look up the backgrounds of Fathom’s leadership and policy team to understand their expertise and how your experience complements theirs.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Can you walk us through a state bill you led from drafting to passage? What was your strategy, and what obstacles did you overcome?
• How would you approach identifying and cultivating a legislative champion in a state where AI policy is not yet a priority?
• What is your understanding of the current state AI policy landscape, and which states do you think are most ripe for Fathom’s model legislation?
• Describe a time you had to build a coalition among stakeholders with opposing views. How did you find common ground?
• How would you manage contract lobbyists across multiple states while ensuring alignment with Fathom’s federal policy and communications teams?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Avoid generic statements about passion for AI policy without concrete examples of state legislative victories—Fathom needs proven operators.
• Do not focus solely on federal policy experience; this role requires deep state-level knowledge and relationships.
• Avoid underestimating the importance of coalition-building and lobbyist management; candidates who only emphasize drafting bills may seem ill-prepared for the role’s scope.