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Legislative Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Legislative Attorney information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$63.3K

$119.4K

How much do legislative attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for legislative attorney in California is $63,343.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $70,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Legislative Attorney Do?

As a legislative attorney, your job is to support a legislative body as they prepare reports, documents, and proposed materials. In this role, you may help determine whether or not a proposed bill complies with existing law and suggest solutions for any issues. You also ensure that the legislators follow the correct procedures throughout the process of creating laws. Legislative attorneys often write formal opinions examining the constitutionality, effect, or operation of a bill and provide these to others as necessary. The duties of this job can vary somewhat from area to area, but legislative attorneys almost always work directly for legislative bodies like city councils or state houses of representatives.

How does a Legislative Attorney typically collaborate with policymakers and other stakeholders during the legislative process?

Legislative Attorneys work closely with lawmakers, legislative staff, and subject matter experts to draft, analyze, and refine proposed legislation. They often participate in meetings or committee hearings to provide legal advice, explain the implications of legal language, and ensure proposed bills comply with state or federal laws. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Legislative Attorneys must translate complex legal concepts into accessible language for non-lawyers and help build consensus among diverse stakeholders.

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

To thrive as a Legislative Attorney, you need a law degree, bar admission, and expertise in legislative research, statutory interpretation, and legal writing. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and government document management tools is common. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for advising lawmakers and drafting legislation. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure accurate, legally sound, and actionable guidance in the fast-paced legislative environment.

What is a Legislative Attorney?

A Legislative Attorney is a legal professional who specializes in analyzing, drafting, and interpreting legislation for government bodies, lawmakers, and committees. They provide legal advice on the implications of proposed laws and help ensure that legislation complies with existing legal frameworks. Legislative Attorneys also conduct legal research, prepare written opinions, and may assist in the legislative process by testifying before committees or advising on policy issues. Their work is essential to the development of clear, effective, and lawful public policy.

What is the difference between Legislative Attorney vs Legislative Analyst?

AspectLegislative AttorneyLegislative Analyst
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission often preferredBachelor's or master's degree in political science, public policy, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, government agencies, legislative bodiesLegislative offices, government agencies, policy research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageLegal departments within legislative bodies, government legal teamsLegislative offices, think tanks, policy analysis firms
Common Search & ComparisonLegal expertise, legislative process, policy reviewPolicy analysis, legislative research, data interpretation

While both roles work within the legislative environment, a Legislative Attorney primarily provides legal advice, drafts legislation, and ensures legal compliance. In contrast, a Legislative Analyst focuses on researching policies, analyzing legislative proposals, and supporting decision-making with data. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in legislative careers.

What job categories do people searching Legislative Attorney jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Legislative Attorney jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Legislative Attorney jobs? Cities in California with the most Legislative Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Legislative Attorney job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,343 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

$6.0K - $7.5K/mo

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

A Legislative Analyst in DTSC's Office of Legislative Affairs provides high - impact policy analysis on some of California's most complex environmental and public health issues, including the management of hazardous waste, cleaning up of contaminated lands, and regulating chemicals in consumer products. The position serves as a key liaison between DTSC leadership and the Legislature, translating technical program insights into clear, actionable bill analyses and other policy recommendations. Legislative analysts collaborate closely with scientists, attorneys, and external stakeholders to evaluate the real - world implications of proposed legislation. The role is fast - paced, deadline - driven, and ideal for candidates who enjoy shaping environmental policy in a dynamic, highly visible setting. Join us today!
As an Analyst II you will have the opportunity to:
  • Independently, and as a team lead, review, analyze and monitor state legislation affecting California's hazardous waste management, site remediation, enforcement, and safer consumer products programs
  • Work with appropriate departmental divisions and programs to establish teams to prepare analyses and communicate the Department's recommended position on legislation, which reflects administrative, programmatic, legal and budgetary concerns
  • Prepare amendments to legislation by working with the legal office and program staff and performing independent investigation and relevant research
  • Develop and refine Department-sponsored legislative proposals, supporting documents and develop strategies to advocate for the passage of those proposals
  • Work with executive staff, legislative staff, and interest groups on development of strategies to ensure the best legislative outcomes for the Department
  • Prepare author and committee statements for Department-sponsored legislation, negotiates bill amendments and prepares Department testimony for the Legislative Director and other executives
Desirable Qualifications We Look For:
  • Strong policy analysis and research skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Experience in cross - agency collaboration and stakeholder engagement
  • Ability to manage fast-paced, high-pressure workloads
  • Understanding of environmental law and DTSC programs
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Effective July 1, 2025, specific Bargaining Units and associated Excluded State employees are subject to a salary reduction between 2% - 4.62% in exchange for hours in the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) per month. For more details, please click here https://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2113 .
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship by the start date of employment. The Department of Toxic Substances Control does not participate in E-Verify for employment authorization purposes.
A hybrid schedule may be available for this position.
Click the link below for a special message from Director Katie Butler on DTSC's culture:
DTSC - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB)
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • ANALYST II
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-520286
Position #(s):
810-230-5393-XXX
Working Title:
Legislative Analyst
Classification:
ANALYST II $6,031.00 - $7,547.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Headquarters
Department Information
This position is located at our Headquarters office in d owntown Sacramento, CA .
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is a member of the boards, departments, and offices (BDO) within the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA).
Our Mission: To protect California's people, communities, and environment from toxic substances, to enhance economic vitality by restoring contaminated land, and to compel manufacturers to make safer consumer products.
Our Vision: All of California is thriving in a healthy environment.
Our Core Values: DTSC values diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. We foster an environment where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees is essential to inspiring innovative solutions. Together we further our mission to protect California's people, communities, and environment from toxic substances, to enhance economic vitality by restoring contaminated land, and to compel manufacturers to make safer consumer products. Join DTSC to improve the lives of all Californians!
DTSC Recruitment Survey :
Click here to complete the DTSC recruitment survey.
Department Website: http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/
Special Requirements
*If you previously applied for this JC, you do not need to reapply.
A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required for the hiring manager's review. Applications submitted without an SOQ may be disqualified.
The SOQ should be limited to 1 page in length front and back, twelve (12) point Arial font.
Your SOQ should address the following:
1. Describe your experience analyzing legislation, regulations, or complex policy issues. Include how you evaluated impacts, communicated findings, and supported leadership decision-making.
2. Provide an example of a time you managed multiple high-priority assignments with tight deadlines. Explain how you organized your work, collaborated with others, and ensured accuracy under pressure.
3. Describe a situation in which you had to translate technical or specialized information for a non-technical audience. Discuss the methods you used to ensure clarity and the outcome of your communication.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/3/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Toxic Substances Control
Headquarters
Attn: Talent Acquisition 21st Fl
P.O. Box 806
Sacramento , CA 95812-0806
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Toxic Substances Control
CalEPA
Talent Acquisition 21st Fl
1001 I Street
Sacramento , CA 95814-2828
Drop-off applications must be received, and date stamped by 5:00 PM on the final filing date.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Statement of Qualifications -
    A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and must be submitted with your Employment Application (STD.678). Please refer to the "Special Requirements" section above for additional information.
  • Other - Cover Letter
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Department Website: http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/
Human Resources Contact:
Talent Acquisition
(916) 302-0269
Talent@dtsc.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Gerry Andrus
(916) 996-5332
Gerry.Andrus@dtsc.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
EEO Office
(916) 324-3095
OCR@dtsc.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Application Instructions
For experience/education to qualify during the application screening process, and to ensure that minimum qualifications can be determined, applicants should include all employment history on the Employment Application (STD 678), including detailed job descriptions, hours worked per week, and start/end dates (MM/DD/YYYY). Application packages without this information may experience delayed processing times and your eligibility for this position may be impacted.
Electronic applications submitted through your CalCareer Account are highly recommended . If you are unable to apply electronically through your CalCareer account, please mail a completed and signed STD. 678 and application package to the mailing address provided above in the "Application Instructions" section. Applications must be postmarked on or before the final filing date.
For mail-in or drop-off applications, please include JC# 520286 and indicate the basis of your eligibility in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) section. SROA and surplus candidates should submit a copy of their letter with their application.
Pending Budget Approval - DTSC will obtain all necessary approvals prior to extending a job offer.
Foreign Degrees
Applicants who completed their education outside the United States (with foreign degree/ transcripts) must obtain and submit verification of United States course/degree equivalency.
Foreign education credential evaluation services can be found at https://www.naces.org .
DO NOT include any confidential information to your application or supporting documents (i.e., Social Security Number, birthdate, marital status, medical information, examination results, method of eligibility, etc.).
Examination Information
List eligibility is established through an examination process in which one must apply and successfully pass the examination for the classification. If you have not established list eligibility for the Analyst II , please click on the link to the examination bulletin for more information
https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/ExamBulletin.aspx?ExamControlId=4815
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.