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Government Relations Associate Jobs in California

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Government Relations Associate information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$46.5K

$66.1K

How much do government relations associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for government relations associate in California is $46,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $49,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a government relations associate when balancing organizational goals with regulatory requirements?

Government Relations Associates often navigate the complex intersection of organizational priorities and evolving government regulations. One common challenge is ensuring that advocacy efforts align with both the company's objectives and compliance requirements, which can change rapidly. Additionally, they must build and maintain relationships with policymakers while accurately representing their organization's interests, even when policy outcomes are uncertain. Strong communication and adaptability are essential to address these challenges and consistently advance organizational goals within the regulatory landscape.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government relations associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Relations Associate, you need strong research, analytical, and communication skills, often supported by a degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking tools, CRM systems, and knowledge of regulatory processes is typically required. Relationship-building, persuasive writing, and adaptability are essential soft skills for effective advocacy and stakeholder engagement. These skills ensure successful navigation of legislative environments, effective advocacy, and the building of productive relationships with policymakers.

What is the difference between Government Relations Associate vs Lobbyist?

AspectGovernment Relations AssociateLobbyist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, public relations, or related fieldOften similar; bachelor's degree required, advanced degrees or certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentCorporate, nonprofit, or government organizations; supporting government relations effortsPrivate firms, advocacy groups, or consulting agencies; directly engaging with policymakers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various sectors to manage relationships with government entitiesPrimarily in lobbying firms, advocacy groups, and corporations seeking legislative influence

While both roles involve engaging with government officials, a Government Relations Associate typically supports broader organizational strategies and maintains ongoing relationships, whereas a Lobbyist actively advocates for specific legislative outcomes. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus and scope differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Relations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Government Relations jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Government Relations Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Government Relations Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Government Relations Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,472 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Government Relations Associate- Concord, CA (Hybrid)

Planned-Parenthoo

Concord, CA โ€ข On-site

$72 - $87/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Government Relations Associate- Concord, CA (Hybrid)

Concord, CA, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1939

Salary Range: $72,404.80 To $86,528.00 Annually

Planned Parenthood Northern California (PPNorCal) is seeking a Government Relations Associate in our TSP 3 building in Concord, CA. This role is full-time, hybrid, and 40 hours per week. PPNorCal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 100% employer-paid medical insurance for full-time employees, 75% coverage for dependent children, 25% coverage for spouses/domestic partners, dental and vision insurance, employer-paid life and long-term disability coverage, earned time off (ETO) and paid sick time accrued based on hours worked, a 403(b) retirement plan with up to 4% employer match after 12 months, and 10 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays each year. service.

Work Schedule

Monday: 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM

This position is currently represented by SEIU Local1021.

SUMMARY

The Government Relations Associate supports the Director of Government Relations in managing local, state, and federal advocacy efforts across Northern California Counties served by PPNorCal. The Associate is vital in cultivating relationships with elected officials and community partners, advancing PPNorCalโ€™s policy goals, and supporting the Planned Parenthood Northern California Action Fund. This position also promotes grassroots advocacy and volunteer engagement in both candidate and issue-based campaigns.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following reflects key responsibilities of the position. Additional duties may be assigned.

  • Serves as a key liaison to local, state, and federal elected officials and their staff across assigned counties; partners with the Director of Government Relations to identify and address legislative and policy issues.
  • Contributes to the development and implementation of PPNorCalโ€™s legislative and policy agenda.
  • Supports the execution of the PPNorCal Action Fundโ€™s political and electoral strategies, including candidate endorsements and field campaign activities.
  • Cultivates and maintains strategic partnerships with community-based organizations; collaborates with the Community Health team to launch and sustain a community partner program aligned with PPNorCalโ€™s long-term priorities.
  • Coordinates grassroots mobilization efforts and public communications on legislative, electoral and community issues; leads regional advocacy initiatives and projects.
  • Manages special advocacy projects and initiatives within designated counties.
  • Collaborates with Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California (PPAC) and the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) on statewide and national policy and political strategy.
  • Supports the Vice President of Government Relations and Communications and the Vice President of Development on fundraising and event planning efforts.
  • Works cross-functionally with Clinical Operations, Community Health Workers, and Development to advance integrated advocacy efforts.
  • Actively promotes and contributes to PPNorCalโ€™s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the role.
  • Other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from a four-year college or university; or two to three years related experience and/or training in campaigns or legislative activities; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages and area. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

COMPUTER SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Microsoft software; Web savvy including basic knowledge of social media.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Preferred but not required: reliable automobile transportation and a valid California Driver's License and insurance.

OTHER SKILLS, ABILITIES, QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum two to three years of relevant work experience in legislative affairs or political advocacy required.
  • Demonstrated experience in government relations, including working with elected officials and engaging community stakeholders; background in political or issue-based campaigns or non-profit advocacy with a focus on grassroots organizing strongly preferred.
  • Commitment to high-quality healthcare and alignment with PPNorCalโ€™s mission; knowledge of reproductive health issues and related policies is strongly preferred.
  • Proven project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Strong emphasis on professionalism and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
  • Excellent organizational, decision-making, and interpersonal skills.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Flexible, resilient, a sense of humor, and comfortable navigating complex or controversial issues.
  • Flexible working occasional evenings and weekends as required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Pay Range: The wage scale reflects the compensation that a new employee can expect to receive if offered employment. The wage scale for this position is $72,404.80 to $86,528.00 annualized salary, based on relevant professional years of experience.

PlannedParenthood Northern California PPNorCal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. PPNorCal is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact Human Resources to make arrangements.

We providehealthcare and education services to 137,000 adults and youth every year at17 health centers located throughout 20 Northern California counties. PlannedParenthood Northern California offers high-quality, affordable health care toall, regardless of income, insurance, or immigration status. We care. No matterwhat!

Our experienced and caring medical staff giveseach patient honest information and personal attention. We provide a full rangeof services, including birth control, breast exams, cancer screenings,medication and in-clinic abortion, pregnancy testing and counseling, prenatalcare, PrEP, and nPEP to prevent HIV infection, STI screening and treatment,vasectomy and infertility services, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and more.

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