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Associate Director Government Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Doctors Company

Director Government Relations

$131K - $172K/yr

The Director of Government Relations is responsible for representing the organization before state governments within an assigned multi-state region, and in other jurisdictions as needed. This role ...

Vantor

Director, Government Relations

Herndon, VA · On-site

The Government Relations Director works as part of the Government Relations team to develop and execute federal advocacy activities in support of Vantor policy, regulatory, legislative, and budget ...

Hanwha Defense USA, Inc.

$190K - $265K/yr

Senior Director, Government Relations Arlington, VA, US Salary Range: $190,000.00 To $265,000.00 Annually Job Title: Senior Director, Government Relations Position Summary: Hanwha Defense USA is ...

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How much do associate director government relations jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate director government relations in the United States is $47,089.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate director of government relations do?

An Associate Director of Government Relations is responsible for developing and managing relationships between an organization and government entities. They monitor legislation, advocate for policies beneficial to their organization, and communicate the organization's positions to policymakers. Their role often includes coordinating with internal teams, tracking regulatory changes, and representing the organization at government meetings or hearings. They also help develop strategies to influence public policy and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate director of government relations?

To thrive as an Associate Director of Government Relations, you need a deep understanding of public policy, legislative processes, and regulatory frameworks, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in government or public affairs. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, stakeholder management platforms, and advocacy tools is crucial in this role. Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and strategic communication skills help build strong relationships with policymakers and internal teams. These abilities are vital for effectively influencing policy outcomes and advancing organizational objectives in a complex political environment.

What are some typical challenges an associate director of government relations may face in managing stakeholder expectations?

Associate Directors of Government Relations often navigate complex relationships between internal leadership, government agencies, and external partners. One common challenge is balancing differing priorities and expectations, especially when legislative timelines or policy outcomes are uncertain. Effective communication, negotiation skills, and the ability to anticipate stakeholder concerns are essential in managing these dynamics. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing political environments requires flexibility and staying informed about current legislative developments.

What is the difference between Associate Director Government Relations vs Government Affairs Manager?

AspectAssociate Director Government RelationsGovernment Affairs Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in government relationsBachelor's degree, experience in government or policy
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with senior leadership, policy advocacyManages lobbying efforts, stakeholder engagement
Employer & Industry UsageCorporations, nonprofits, government agenciesCorporations, advocacy groups, industry associations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in government relationsComparing government-focused roles in organizations

The Associate Director Government Relations typically holds a higher level of responsibility, often working closely with senior leadership to develop strategic advocacy plans. The Government Affairs Manager focuses more on executing lobbying efforts and stakeholder engagement. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but the Associate Director generally has a broader strategic scope.

Are associate director government relations jobs stressful?

Associate Director of Government Relations jobs can be stressful due to the need to manage multiple stakeholders, meet policy deadlines, and navigate complex regulatory environments. The role often requires strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially during legislative sessions or policy changes.

What cities are hiring for Associate Director Government Relations jobs?

Cities with the most Associate Director Government Relations job openings:

What states have the most Associate Director Government Relations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Associate Director Government Relations jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Director Government Relations jobs?

For Associate Director Government Relations jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Director Government Relations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,089 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Associate Director, State Government Relations

College Park, MD • On-site

UM01 University of Maryland College Park (UMCP)
See more jobs at UM01 University of Maryland College Park (UMCP)external

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Associate Director for State Government Relations works under the direction of the Director of State and Local Government Relations to advocate for the University of Maryland’s priorities with the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, state agencies, and other state governmental stakeholders. This position serves as a primary day‑to‑day liaison between the University and state legislators, legislative staff, executive branch officials, and agency staff. The Associate Director supports the full range of state government relations activities, including legislative monitoring and analysis, advocacy strategy, testimony and policy material development, relationship‑building, budget and regulatory tracking, and coordination of state government requests involving University leadership, faculty, staff, students, and administrative units. The Associate Director plays a central role in the University’s annual legislative session strategy and maintains year‑round engagement with state government to advance University priorities, identify opportunities for collaboration, anticipate risks, and shape policy outcomes. As appropriate, this position may represent the University before the General Assembly, state agencies, external coalitions, and stakeholder groups. This role works closely with other members of the Office of Government Relations, including colleagues responsible for strategic initiatives, community engagement, federal relations, local government relations, and government communications, to ensure coordinated and consistent engagement across all levels of government.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Experience: Five (5) years of professional experience in legislative affairs working directly with lawmakers on policy or budget matters.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of state and local government structures, legislative processes, public policy development, and governmental relations practices.
  • Knowledge of legislative affairs strategies, advocacy principles, and approaches for engaging with elected officials, government agencies, and other governmental stakeholders.
  • Knowledge of higher education issues, institutional priorities, and policies impacting public universities.
  • Skill in monitoring, analyzing, and summarizing legislative proposals, regulations, and public policy issues affecting organizational priorities.
  • Skill in developing written communications, legislative briefings, reports, presentations, and other materials for internal and external audiences.
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, government agencies, and community stakeholders.
  • Ability to interpret complex legislative and policy information and evaluate potential impacts on institutional programs and priorities.
  • Ability to coordinate government relations activities, including legislative tracking, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally while representing institutional interests with diverse audiences.
Additional Job Details Preferences
  • Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, public administration, communications, law, higher education administration, or a related field
  • Direct experience working in the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, a Maryland state agency, a legislative committee office, a public university system, or a government relations office.
  • Existing relationships with members, staff, or leadership of the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, Maryland executive branch agencies, or statewide policy organizations.
  • Experience in higher education, a research institution, public university, nonprofit, association, or public‑sector government relations environment.
  • Familiarity with state higher education policy, including operating budget, capital budget, University System of Maryland governance, research funding, financial aid, workforce development, and public university issues.
  • Experience drafting testimony, preparing witnesses, supporting amendment negotiations, and developing legislative advocacy strategies.
  • Experience coordinating legislative visits, advocacy days, campus briefings, stakeholder convenings, or grassroots/alumni advocacy programs.
  • Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, policy databases, lobbying compliance practices, or government relations CRM tools.
Required Application Materials
  • Resume, Cover Letter, and List of three (3) Professional References
Physical Demands

Predominantly works in an office environment. Will require the ability to regularly travel throughout the State of Maryland. Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time, both indoors and outdoors. This position will require occasional evening work hours.

Job Risks Not Applicable to This Position

Financial Disclosure Required Yes For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

Department Pres-President's Office Worker Sub-Type Staff Regular Salary Range $106,800 - $128,160Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice Resources

Learn how military skills translate to civilian opportunities with O*Net Online

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice Resources

Learn how military skills translate to civilian opportunities with O*Net Online

The University works hard to make its websites accessible to any and all users.

If you need assistance completing the application process, please contact us at one of the below options: Email: jobs@umd.edu Phone: 301.405.7575 Maryland Relay: Dial 711 This contact information cannot be used to inquire about application status.

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