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Legislative Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ryan, LLC

Director, Legislative Affairs

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

The Legislative Affairs Director will assist the Principals and Advocacy Services Practice with all legislative efforts including drafting and tracking legislation, working with internal subject ...

Ryan, LLC

Director, Legislative Affairs

Charleston, SC · Hybrid

The Legislative Affairs Director will assist the Principals and Advocacy Services Practice with all legislative efforts including drafting and tracking legislation, working with internal subject ...

Ryan, LLC

Director, Legislative Affairs

Bellevue, WA · Hybrid

The Legislative Affairs Director will assist the Principals and Advocacy Services Practice with all legislative efforts including drafting and tracking legislation, working with internal subject ...

Ryan, LLC

Director, Legislative Affairs

Marblehead, MA · Hybrid

The Legislative Affairs Director will assist the Principals and Advocacy Services Practice with all legislative efforts including drafting and tracking legislation, working with internal subject ...

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$184.5K

How much do legislative director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for legislative director in the United States is $123,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Legislative Director, you need in-depth knowledge of legislative processes, policy analysis, and government relations, typically supported by a degree in political science, law, or public policy. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, constituent management tools, and strong research capabilities is essential. Exceptional leadership, strategic communication, and networking skills help manage teams and build effective relationships with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for advancing legislative priorities, advising policymakers, and ensuring successful advocacy within a dynamic political environment.

What are some common challenges Legislative Directors face when managing a legislative agenda?

Legislative Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing competing legislative priorities, responding quickly to fast-changing political landscapes, and coordinating input from multiple stakeholders including staff, constituents, and external advocacy groups. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential, as the role requires tracking numerous bills and deadlines while ensuring the legislator's goals are met. Adaptability and strategic thinking help Legislative Directors stay ahead in a dynamic environment and successfully advance their office’s policy objectives.

What is the difference between Legislative Director vs Legislative Assistant?

AspectLegislative DirectorLegislative Assistant
ResponsibilitiesOversees legislative strategy, manages staff, and liaises with lawmakersResearches bills, prepares reports, and assists with legislative tasks
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in policy or governmentBachelor's degree, strong research and communication skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, high-pressure, leadership roleOffice-based, supportive, detail-oriented role
Industry UsagePolitical offices, advocacy groups, government agencies

The main difference is that a Legislative Director manages legislative strategies and staff, while a Legislative Assistant focuses on research and supporting legislative activities. The roles often work together, but the Director holds a leadership position with broader responsibilities.

What does a Legislative Director do?

A Legislative Director oversees the legislative strategy and policy priorities for a legislator, often in a congressional or state legislative office. They are responsible for analyzing legislation, advising the legislator on policy decisions, and coordinating with other staff and stakeholders to advance the lawmaker’s agenda. Legislative Directors draft bills, track policy developments, and ensure that their office is informed on key issues. They also supervise legislative staff and serve as a primary point of contact for policy matters.

What Is a Legislative Director?

A legislative director works to create federal policy and resolve high-priority issues. They often work with an assistant and other agency staff to develop strategic plans to push legislative issues through to Congress. Daily duties include drafting legislation as well as attending conferences, press hearings, and meetings. Qualifications for a legislative director typically include experience working as a legislative assistant as well as advanced formal education.

More about Legislative Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Legislative Director jobs? Cities with the most Legislative Director 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 Director jobs? The top employers for Legislative Director jobs are:
What states have the most Legislative Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Legislative Director jobs include:
Legislative Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legislative Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,955 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Legislative Director

Legislative Director

California State Senate

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$7.9K - $12K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

424th of 689 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career that is actively working on critical legislation to improve California, address issues in our communities, and meet the needs of all Californians? Consider the California State Senate and be part of an organization that serves to strengthen the State through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity in a high-energy, team-oriented environment, you are encouraged to apply.
BASIC FUNCTIONS:
Under the direction of the Senator and the Chief of Staff, the Legislative Director participates with the Member, Chief of Staff, and legislative staff in the development of a legislative package. Legislative Director must be able to understand and navigate the legislative calendar, track and meet deadlines, understand the Senate Rules and basic committee and floor procedures, and oversee Legislative Aides and track the progress of bills, amendments, committee hearings and the floor.
DUTIES:
Develops and manages the Member's personal legislation, in conjunction with input from the Chief of Staff. Prepares briefings for the Member on key legislative issues. May serve as the principal substitute for the Member at legislative meetings. Analyzes legislation and provides policy consultation in key areas of interest for the Member. Responsible for research and formulation of legislation and meetings with proponents and opponents. Prepares a monthly legislative progress report for the Member, Chief of Staff, and staff and provides legislative updates at staff meetings. Supervises staff including interns and fellows assigned to assist with legislation. May prepare a summary of the legislative package for distribution to staff.
DESIRABLE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
The ideal candidate is familiar with the legislative and budget process, as well as the structure and policies of state government and best practices for supervising employees. Candidates must have the ability to manage multiple projects, thrive under deadlines, and work well in a team environment.
Candidates must be able to staff multiple bills and committees and perform administrative and policy-influencing functions effectively in addition to supervising staff. The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with constituents, stakeholders, and staff is essential.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree required. At least four (4) years direct legislative experience is required. Five (5) years legislative experience preferred. Please include verification of your degree with your completed application.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, and a strong policy, legislative and budget process background are required.
Prior experience as Legislative Director Preferred
LOCATION, SALARY AND FILING DATE:
This position is located in Sacramento, CA and requires in person attendance .
The Senate's core business hours are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and may require after hours or weekend work.
Final salary will be commensurate with experience and education. Seniority and significant experience are required to reach the higher end of the salary range.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
BENEFITS:
The Senate offers a competitive benefits package, which includes:
  • Health
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
  • 401(k) and 457 plans
  • Flexible spending accounts
HOW TO APPLY:
Please use the "Apply Online" button above to apply.
A cover letter and resume are required in addition to the Senate application. NOTE : Please complete the Senate application in as much detail as possible. Include all work history for a complete review of your experience.
If you are unable to complete the online application, please email all required documentation to the contact listed below.
Autumn Ogden-Smith, Chief of Staff
Office of Senator Richardson
[email protected]
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodation(s) if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding or requests for reasonable accommodations may be directed to Senate Human Resources at [email protected] .
The California State Senate values diversity at all levels of the organization and is committed to fostering an environment in which employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. The Senate believes the diversity of our employees and their unique ideas inspire innovative solutions to strengthen our ability to support the legislature. Join the California State Senate and help us support California communities.
Date Posted 6/30/2026
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