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Entry Level Legislative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legislative Attorney

Pierre, SD · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

For an entry level Legislative Attorney, the annual salary will range from $74,000 to $92,000. For a Senior Legislative Attorney with previous related experience, the annual salary will range from ...

General Summary This is entry level legal work in the examination and preparation of legislation, legislative programs, legal instruments, opinions, briefs, or other documents; conducting research to ...

... is entry level legal work in the examination and preparation of legislation, legislative programs, legal instruments, opinions, briefs, or other documents; conducting research to assist a higher ...

Continuous General Summary This is entry level legal work in the examination and preparation of legislation, legislative programs, legal instruments, opinions, briefs, or other documents; conducting ...

... is entry level legal work in the examination and preparation of legislation, legislative programs, legal instruments, opinions, briefs, or other documents; conducting research to assist a higher ...

... is entry level legal work in the examination and preparation of legislation, legislative programs, legal instruments, opinions, briefs, or other documents; conducting research to assist a higher ...

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Entry Level Legislative information

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$30K

$64.2K

$121K

How much do entry level legislative jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level legislative in the United States is $64,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Legislative job?

An Entry Level Legislative job typically involves supporting lawmakers, legislative staff, or government agencies in researching policies, drafting documents, and assisting with administrative tasks. Responsibilities may include tracking legislation, attending hearings, and communicating with constituents. These roles are often found in government offices, advocacy groups, or public policy organizations. They provide a foundation for careers in law, public policy, or government relations. Strong communication, research, and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

How to get legislative experience?

To gain legislative experience for an entry-level legislative role, consider volunteering or interning with government offices, legislative committees, or advocacy groups to develop knowledge of policy processes and build relevant skills. Participating in internships, attending public hearings, and learning legislative tools like bill tracking software can also enhance your understanding and qualifications.

How hard is it to become a legislative aide?

Becoming a legislative aide typically requires a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or a related field, along with strong communication and organizational skills. Entry-level positions often involve internships or volunteer work to gain relevant experience, and some roles may require knowledge of government processes or policy research tools. The difficulty varies depending on competition and individual qualifications, but relevant education and experience can improve chances of securing a position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Legislative position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Legislative professional, strong research, writing, and analytical skills are essential, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, document management systems, and tools like Microsoft Office is often required. Excellent communication, organization, and attention to detail help candidates stand out in this dynamic environment. These competencies ensure accurate legislative support, effective collaboration, and efficient handling of fast-paced legislative workloads.

Is Legislative Assistant an entry level job?

A Legislative Assistant is often an entry-level position that involves supporting legislators with research, correspondence, and policy analysis. Many employers seek candidates with a bachelor's degree and strong communication skills, and some roles may require prior internship experience or familiarity with legislative processes.

What are typical daily responsibilities for an Entry Level Legislative position?

Entry Level Legislative professionals typically assist with researching proposed legislation, drafting memoranda and reports, and tracking bills through the legislative process. They may attend committee meetings, summarize hearings, and support senior staff with document preparation and scheduling. Collaboration with team members such as legislative analysts, aides, and communications staff is common, providing opportunities to learn about government procedures and policy development. This role provides hands-on experience with the legislative process and is an excellent foundation for future advancement in public service or government affairs.

What is the easiest government job to get?

For an entry-level legislative role, positions such as legislative aide or clerk are often the easiest to obtain, as they typically require minimal experience and may only need a high school diploma or equivalent. These roles often involve administrative tasks and support functions within government offices, with some requiring basic knowledge of government processes or communication skills.
More about Entry Level Legislative jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Legislative jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Legislative job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Legislative jobs? The most popular types of Legislative jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Legislative jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Legislative jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Legislative jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Legislative jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Legislative job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,183 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Legislative Attorney

Legislative Attorney

State of South Dakota

Pierre, SD • On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


State Of South Dakota rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

Job ID: 35400 - Legislative Attorney
Agency: South Dakota Legislative Research Council
Location: Pierre
Salary: $74,000 to $130,000, depending on experience
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
This is a full-time position with the Legislative Research Council. For more information on the Legislative Research Council, please visit the LRC website.
The Legislative Research Council, which is the nonpartisan research and support staff to the South Dakota State Legislature, is accepting applications for a permanent, full-time Legislative Attorney. An applicant must have an interest in the legislative process and be results-oriented, honest, discrete, trustworthy, and articulate. A remote work option may be considered for the position. However, a full-time presence in Pierre is required during the legislative session and periodically throughout the interim.
Duties and Responsibilities: A Legislative Attorney will assist legislators by providing accurate, objective, and relevant research information, informed by a professional understanding of the law. The significant duties include the following:
  1. Compile data and conduct general and legal research for legislative committees and individual legislators and present alternative solutions for their consideration;
  2. Confer with and advise legislators on legislative legal questions;
  3. Draft and edit bills, resolutions, and amendments to implement legislators' ideas;
  4. Staff standing committees of the South Dakota Legislature during legislative sessions, consult with committee chairs to develop agendas and obtain testimony, and prepare committee reports;
  5. Staff interim committees, consult with committee chairs to develop agendas, assist with meeting arrangements, prepare background materials, and prepare final reports;
  6. Review administrative rules for form, style, clarity, and compliance with statutory authority;
  7. Research and write issue memoranda and develop other resources on selected topics for review and use by the Legislature, Legislative Research Council staff, and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:
  1. A Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school;
  2. An active license in good standing with the State Bar of South Dakota, or the ability to become eligible for and become admitted to the State Bar of South Dakota within one year after employment; and
  3. The ability to remain objective and nonpartisan in relation to all legislative matters, maintain confidentiality, and handle politically sensitive work.

Preferred Qualifications:
  1. Very strong writing skills;
  2. Strong research and analytical skills;
  3. A willingness to expand and develop expertise into various subject areas;
  4. The ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, in a manner that clearly and efficiently conveys information to legislators and the public; and
  5. The ability to work under tight deadlines and extended hours during the legislative session.

Salary Range:
For an entry level Legislative Attorney, the annual salary will range from $74,000 to $92,000. For a Senior Legislative Attorney with previous related experience, the annual salary will range from $88,000 to $130,000. Actual starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience.
Application Process:
This position will remain open until filled. This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act and is employed at will. Any application or resume submitted for consideration will be kept confidential. Applications, consisting of a letter of interest and resume, should be submitted online (https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=3SE) or e-mail to:
South Dakota Legislative Research Council
500 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501
E-Mail: Legis.Resume@sdlegislature.gov | Phone: 605-773-3251

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