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Government Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essc

State Government Relations Director

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

The Director of State Government Relations (California) leads Easterseals Southern California's state advocacy and government relations strategy. This role oversees legislative engagement, funding ...

Johnston County

NC

$85.58K - $145.48K/yr

The Government Relations Specialist serves a critical role in building and maintaining intergovernmental partnerships at all levels, coordinating advocacy efforts, and engaging stakeholders in the ...

Brooklynpubliclibrary

$90K - $97K/yr

This new position will support crucial government relations efforts, as well as track and organize the public sector discretionary grant program. The successful candidate will have strong ...

Strsoh

Assistant Director, Government Relations

Columbus, OH · On-site

$122.40K - $153K/yr

STRS Ohio, STRS STRS Ohio is seeking an Assistant Director, Government Relations to join the Executive/Government Relations team. Established in 1920 and serving Ohio's educators, STRS Ohio is one of ...

Paychex

Head of Government Relations

Washington, DC · On-site

Identifies, creates, and executes proactive government relations programs in support of various strategic priorities to ensure a timely, comprehensive response to compliance changes. * Identifies and ...

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Government Relations information

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$51.5K

$106.5K

$169.5K

How much do government relations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for government relations in the United States is $106,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Government Relations Jobs?

Government relations jobs focus on interaction with the government on various levels, such as acquiring permits for a company, lobbying for legislation, or providing information to legislators on specific topics. Titles in this field include things like government relations director, government relations specialist, and similar terms. Government relations employees often provide advocacy on various topics, help direct company policy towards state and local governments, ensure lines of communication are available to the public, and address concerns from citizens. In this job, you may also work on a proposal for future interaction with each level of the government.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Government Relations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Government Relations, you need a solid understanding of public policy, regulatory frameworks, and strong written and verbal communication skills, often supported by a degree in political science, law, or public administration. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, stakeholder management tools, and sometimes certifications like a Registered Lobbyist status are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to build relationships make professionals stand out in this field. These skills are crucial for effectively advocating for organizational interests and shaping public policy outcomes.

How does a Government Relations professional typically collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve organizational objectives?

Government Relations professionals regularly coordinate with internal departments like legal, compliance, public affairs, and executive leadership to ensure that the organization’s messaging and policy positions are consistent and strategic. Externally, they build and maintain relationships with government officials, regulatory bodies, and industry associations to advocate for the organization’s interests. This role often involves preparing briefings, organizing stakeholder meetings, and facilitating dialogue to anticipate policy changes and align company strategies with regulatory requirements. Effective collaboration is essential for staying informed and influencing public policy in ways that positively impact the organization.

What are government relations?

Government relations refers to the practice of building and maintaining relationships between an organization and government officials, agencies, or legislators. Professionals in this field advocate for their organization's interests by monitoring legislation, communicating policy positions, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws. They often represent organizations during policy discussions and legislative processes, working to influence public policy decisions. Effective government relations can help organizations navigate regulatory environments and anticipate changes that may impact their operations.

What is the difference between Government Relations vs Public Affairs Specialist?

AspectGovernment RelationsPublic Affairs Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in government or policyBachelor's degree, communication or public relations background
Work EnvironmentLobbying, government meetings, policy advocacyMedia relations, community outreach, communication campaigns
Employer & Industry UsageCorporations, nonprofits, government agenciesCorporations, PR firms, advocacy groups
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve communication and advocacy, Government Relations focuses on influencing policy and building relationships with government entities. Public Affairs Specialists handle media, public perception, and community engagement. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or job focus within the public sector and corporate communication fields.

More about Government Relations jobs
What cities are hiring for Government Relations jobs? Cities with the most Government Relations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Relations jobs? The most popular types of Government Relations jobs are:
What states have the most Government Relations jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Relations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Government Relations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Relations jobs are:
Government Relations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Relations job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,522 per year, or $51.2 per hour.
State Government Relations Director

State Government Relations Director

Essc

Irvine, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Easterseals Southern California transforms lives every day. For over a century, Easterseals has championed inclusion and independence-delivering essential services like early childhood programs, autism services, employment and independent living support to more than 29,000 people each year. Through advocacy and education, we break barriers and create opportunities for the one-in-four Americans with disabilities.

The Director of State Government Relations (California) leads Easterseals Southern California's state advocacy and government relations strategy. This role oversees legislative engagement, funding and appropriations requests, coalition partnerships, and policy communications to support organizational priorities. The Director serves as a key liaison to state policymakers, agencies, coalition partners, and internal leadership, driving coordinated advocacy efforts that advance ESSC's mission and services.
Starting Salary Range: $133,000k - $167,000k / yr.

OVERVIEW OF POSITION:

The Director of State Government Relations (California) is responsible for leading and executing Easterseals Southern California's state-level advocacy and government relations strategy. This role manages all California legislative engagement, appropriations and funding requests, coalition participation, and policy communications in alignment with organizational priorities. The Director serves as a key strategist and relationship manager with state policymakers, administrative agencies, coalition partners, and internal leaders, ensuring coordinated, high-impact advocacy that advances ESSC's mission and service delivery.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • With alignment from VP of Government Relations, leads and executes ESSC's California state advocacy strategy, including legislative visits to Sacramento and coordinated in-district meetings.
  • Tracks, analyses, and prioritizes state legislation, budget proposals, and regulatory actions impacting ESSC services.
  • Develops legislative "asks," position statements, and briefing materials for leadership and advocates.
  • Serves as a primary liaison with state legislators, legislative staff, and relevant state agencies.
  • Identifies and advances state budget, appropriations, and funding opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.
  • Coordinates funding request development with leadership, program teams, and finance.
  • Monitors the Governor's Budget, May Revision, and final budget outcomes and recommend advocacy actions.
  • Builds and actively engages in strategic coalitions across disability, health, and human services sectors.
  • Represents ESSC in coalition meetings and align joint strategies and messaging.
  • Identifies opportunities for ESSC to lead or co-lead coalition initiatives.
  • Translates complex policy issues into clear communications for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Prepares leaders for legislative meetings through briefings and materials.
  • Ensures compliance with state lobbying registration and reporting requirements.
  • Represents ESSC at public hearings both locally and in Sacramento.

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

  • 7-10 years of California state government relations or advocacy experience.

EXEPECTED NUMBER OF DIRECT REPORTS: Individual contributor

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook (email and calendar management), Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, for correspondence, analysis, briefing materials, and presentations.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for policymakers, coalition partners, and internal audiences.
  • Deep understanding of the California legislative and budget process.
  • Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining effective relationships with state legislators, legislative staff, agency officials, and coalition partners.
  • Strong strategic thinking and judgment, including the ability to prioritize among competing policy opportunities and risks.
  • Experience coordinating across internal teams (e.g., programs, finance, communications, leadership) to align advocacy strategy and funding requests.
  • Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously in a fastpaced, deadlinedriven environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation per Easterseals of Southern California and/or program requirements.
  • Must have reliable transportation to attend offsite meetings and engagements.
  • Must pass all drug testing required by ESSC.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ADA:

  • Carrying/Lifting:

Occasional / 0-30 lbs.

  • Standing:

Occasional / 0-30 lbs.

  • Sitting:

Constant / Up to 8 hours per day.

  • Walking:

Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day.

  • Travel:

Regular in-state travel, including to Sacramento and local districts, required. Ability to travel independently to external meetings and events.

  • Repetitive Motion/Activity:

Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.

  • Visual Acuity:

Ability to view computer monitor and read newsprint.

  • Environmental Exposure:

Standard office and travel environment.

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