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Entry Level Legislative Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legislative Attorney

Pierre, SD · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

A Legislative Attorney will assist legislators by providing accurate, objective, and relevant ... For an entry level Legislative Attorney, the annual salary will range from $74,000 to $92,000. For ...

Office of the Oswego County Attorney Legislative Office Building 46 East Bridge Street Oswego, New ... Open positions often include entry level openings where little or no experience is required. The ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 Assistant information

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$30K

$64.2K

$121K

How much do entry level legislative assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level legislative assistant 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Legislative Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Legislative Assistant, you need strong research, writing, organizational, and analytical skills, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in political science or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, Microsoft Office Suite, and database management is often required. Exceptional attention to detail, interpersonal communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities make a candidate stand out. These skills ensure effective support for legislators, accurate policy analysis, and smooth coordination of legislative processes.

What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Legislative Assistant expect to handle in their first year?

As an Entry Level Legislative Assistant, you can expect to support senior staff and legislators by conducting research on policy issues, tracking legislation, drafting memos and correspondence, and helping to coordinate meetings or events. Your daily responsibilities often include monitoring legislative calendars, preparing briefing materials, and responding to constituent inquiries. While the pace can be fast and deadlines tight, this role provides valuable exposure to the legislative process and helps build a foundation for advancement into more senior policy or legislative roles.

What are entry level legislative assistants?

Entry level legislative assistants are professionals who support lawmakers by conducting research, managing communications, and helping prepare legislative documents. They often assist with scheduling, drafting memos, and tracking bills or policy issues. This role is typically an entry point for those interested in public policy, government, or political careers, offering valuable firsthand experience in the legislative process. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this position.

What is the difference between Entry Level Legislative Assistant vs Entry Level Legislative Aide?

AspectEntry Level Legislative AssistantEntry Level Legislative Aide
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree, familiarity with legislative processesHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree, basic knowledge of government operations
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, legislative chambers, policy organizationsGovernment agencies, legislative offices, community organizations
Employer & Industry UsageLegislative bodies, government institutions, advocacy groupsState and local government offices, legislative support roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level legislative support rolesClarifying differences in legislative support positions

Both roles support legislative processes but differ slightly in responsibilities and scope. Entry Level Legislative Assistants often handle research, policy analysis, and constituent communication, while Entry Level Legislative Aides focus more on administrative support and clerical tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the best fit for their skills and career goals.

More about Entry Level Legislative Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Legislative Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Legislative Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Legislative Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Legislative Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Legislative Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,183 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Legislative Attorney

State of South Dakota

Pierre, SD • On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


State Of South Dakota rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 49 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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