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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 research information, informed by a professional understanding of the law. The significant duties include ...

Prepare weekly legislative docket for clients. * Assist with coordination of legislative receptions and other events for the firm and its clients. * Assist with preparation of responses to requests ...

Prepare weekly legislative docket for clients. * Assist with coordination of legislative receptions and other events for the firm and its clients. * Assist with preparation of responses to requests ...

Legislative Editor

Pierre, SD · On-site

$54K - $98K/yr

A Legislative Editor will assist Operations and the Code Counsel. The significant duties include: * Proof legislative documents during session; * Printing and delivering all necessary session ...

Prepare weekly legislative docket for clients. * Assist with coordination of legislative receptions and other events for the firm and its clients. * Assist with preparation of responses to requests ...

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Legislative Assistant information

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$30K

$64.2K

$121K

How much do legislative assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 does a legislative assistant do?

Legislative assistants work for elected or appointed officials, advocacy groups, or non-profit organizations that wish to change laws for their cause. They write, edit, and track legislative bills as they go through the legislative process. Other job duties for legislative assistants include garnering support for proposals, responding to constituents, and writing speeches for their employers to introduce legislation to committees.

What are some common challenges faced by legislative assistants in managing competing priorities during a legislative session?

Legislative Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as tracking bills, preparing briefing materials, and responding to constituent inquiries, all while supporting their legislator’s agenda. During a legislative session, deadlines can be tight and priorities may shift rapidly based on new developments or constituent needs. Effective organization, clear communication, and adaptability are essential to manage these competing demands while ensuring that critical tasks are completed accurately and on time.

What is the difference between Legislative Assistant vs Legislative Aide?

AspectLegislative AssistantLegislative Aide
Required CredentialsOften a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or related fieldsTypically an associate's or bachelor's degree, sometimes entry-level
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, working closely with legislators and staffOffice or district settings, assisting with administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLegislative offices, government agencies, advocacy groupsLegislative offices, government agencies, congressional offices
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and career pathsEntry-level position, job duties, and qualifications

In summary, a Legislative Assistant typically has more advanced responsibilities, requiring higher education and experience, while a Legislative Aide often serves as an entry-level support role. Both work in legislative environments but differ in scope and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legislative assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legislative Assistant, you need strong research, writing, and analytical skills, often backed by a degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, databases, and government procedures is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, and relationship-building skills help you navigate fast-paced political environments and support legislators effectively. These skills are crucial for providing accurate policy analysis, drafting legislative materials, and ensuring smooth legislative operations.

What does a legislative assistant do?

A Legislative Assistant supports lawmakers by researching policy issues, drafting bills and speeches, and helping manage legislative agendas. They analyze legislation, prepare briefings, and communicate with constituents and stakeholders. Legislative Assistants play a key role in ensuring their office is informed and responsive to the needs of both the legislator and the public.
What cities are hiring for Legislative Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Legislative Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Legislative jobs? The most popular types of Legislative jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Legislative Assistant jobs? The top employers for Legislative Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Legislative Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Legislative Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Legislative Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% 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

Re-posted 13 days ago


State Of South Dakota rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th 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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