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Federal Policy Counsel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$102K - $139K/yr

It will focus on providing legal counsel on federal legislation and policies regarding all of ADF's core issue areas, including free speech, religious liberty, parental rights, sanctity of life, and ...

The ideal candidate brings strong experience in federal acquisition policy, defense programs, small ... counsel, SBA representatives, prime contractors, and small business partners. * Support ...

The ideal candidate brings strong experience in federal acquisition policy, defense programs, small ... counsel, SBA representatives, prime contractors, and small business partners. * Support ...

Showing results 21-40

Federal Policy Counsel information

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$33.5K

$139.4K

$234.5K

How much do federal policy counsel jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal policy counsel in the United States is $139,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $197,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a federal policy counsel do?

A Federal Policy Counsel is a legal professional who analyzes, develops, and advocates for policies at the federal level, often within government agencies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups. They research legislation, draft policy recommendations, and provide legal guidance on federal laws and regulations. Their work involves monitoring legislative developments, collaborating with stakeholders, and sometimes lobbying Congress or federal agencies to influence policy decisions. This role requires a strong understanding of legal frameworks as well as excellent communication and analytical skills.

What are some common challenges faced by federal policy counsel when navigating complex legislative processes?

Federal Policy Counsels often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly changing legislation, balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders, and interpreting nuanced regulatory language. They must also navigate the complexities of government bureaucracy and build relationships with policymakers to effectively advocate for their organization's positions. Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills are essential to overcome these obstacles and drive impactful policy outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal policy counsel, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Policy Counsel, you typically need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, strong legal research and writing skills, and deep knowledge of federal law and legislative processes. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as legislative tracking tools, is essential. Exceptional communication, analytical thinking, and negotiation skills help build relationships and effectively advocate for policy positions. These skills ensure effective legal analysis, strategic policy development, and impactful representation before federal agencies and lawmakers.

What is the difference between Federal Policy Counsel vs Regulatory Affairs Specialist?

AspectFederal Policy CounselRegulatory Affairs Specialist
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), law license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in life sciences, public policy, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, government agencies, advocacy groupsHealthcare, pharmaceutical, or manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal and policy-focused organizationsIndustries regulated by government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding legal policy rolesUnderstanding compliance and regulatory processes

While both roles involve navigating government policies, a Federal Policy Counsel primarily focuses on legal analysis and advocacy related to federal laws, often requiring a law degree. In contrast, a Regulatory Affairs Specialist concentrates on ensuring company compliance with regulations, typically requiring a background in science or public policy. Both roles are essential in their respective fields but serve different functions within the policy and regulatory landscape.

What cities are hiring for Federal Policy Counsel jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Policy Counsel job openings:

What states have the most Federal Policy Counsel jobs?

States with the most job openings for Federal Policy Counsel jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Federal Policy Counsel jobs?

For Federal Policy Counsel jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Policy Counsel

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention advocacy group in the country, is seeking a passionate, dedicated attorney to join its Policy team. The Policy team works to advance Everytown's mission to reduce gun violence by improving gun-related laws and regulations in all 50 states and at the federal level, generating groundbreaking original research, and contributing to Everytown's position as a thought leader in the gun violence prevention movement. A key part of the role will be to work as part of an internal, cross-departmental team to develop, advise on, and implement a complex, multi-state policy strategy in a region. You will also need to work in collaboration with state legislators, advocacy organizations, lobbyists, and other influencers to seize opportunities to pass and protect lifesaving gun violence prevention laws at the state level. 


This is a full-time position based in New York City or DC reporting to the Director of Policy Advocacy. 


Responsibilities will include:

  • Draft and advise on legislation to promote gun safety at the state and local level  

  • Analyze legislation, legal opinions, and criminal court records

  • Perform research on Second Amendment and other firearm-related jurisprudence and gun laws around the country

  • Contribute to research reports and draft other public-facing materials

  • Work cooperatively with and support teams engaged in Government Affairs, Political, Research, Communications, and Digital projects

  • Review the organization's products and communications materials for accuracy, including reports, speeches, op-eds, emails, and social media posts

  • Represent the organization before legislative bodies and in other public forums

Qualifications:

  • J.D. and membership in a state bar

  • 2+ years of relevant professional experience

  • Ability to forge strong relationships with colleagues in positions across the organization and work toward a common goal

  • Excellent research, writing, and editing skills with outstanding attention to detail

  • Ability to explain complicated legal concepts to a general audience

  • Strong work ethic, sense of humor, flexibility, creativity, and a professional demeanor

  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-moving environment and deliver timely and high-quality work

  • Willingness to travel on occasion, possibly on short notice

  • Comfort working in a sometimes hectic open-plan office

  • Strong commitment to reducing and preventing gun violence

The annual salary range for this role is $110,000 to $120,000 per year. Everytown offers a generous package including medical, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, 401K Match, Education Assistance and more.


How to Apply

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please include a thoughtful cover letter, including any salary requirements, and a resume. 


DIVERSE WORKFORCE AND OPEN CULTURE

Candidates who identify as members of historically underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply to Everytown. A diverse workforce and open culture are at the heart of our organization and vital to our success.

Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.


You can learn about the framework that guides our work by viewing Everytown's Organizations Values


About Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund

Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund (the “Everytown Support Fund”) is the education, research and litigation arm of Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention organization in the country with more than 11 million supporters and more than 800,000 donors. The Everytown Support Fund seeks to improve our understanding of the causes of gun violence and help to reduce it by conducting groundbreaking original research, developing evidence-based policies, communicating this knowledge to the American public, and advancing gun safety and gun violence prevention in communities and the courts. Learn more at www.everytownsupportfund.org.