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Legislative Director Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Administrative Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

  • PTO

Receiving visitors at the front desk by greeting, welcoming, directing, and announcing them appropriately. * Responding to or distributing emails in the Legislative Council inbox. * Providing basic ...

Director of Legal Strategy

Madison, WI · On-site

$130 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Legislative advocacy and non-advocacy legal counsel remains outside the Legal Department. The Director of Legal Strategy reports directly to the President & CEO and serves on the senior leadership ...

Director of Legal Strategy Clean Wisconsin

Madison, WI · On-site

$130 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Legislative advocacyand non-advocacy legal counsel remains outside the Legal Department. The ... Direct administrative proceedings before state and federal agencies. * Prepare briefs, motions ...

Director, Benefits & Leaves of Absence

Madison, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Director of Benefits & Leaves of Absence provides enterprise-wide strategic leadership ... Monitor legislative and regulatory changes; proactively assess impacts and lead required program or ...

Director Enterprise Readiness

Madison, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Director Enterprise Readiness is accountable for ensuring Medica's strategic and ... Ensure solutions and readiness activities comply with Medica policies, regulatory, and legislative ...

Director Enterprise Readiness

Madison, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Director Enterprise Readiness is accountable for ensuring Medica's strategic and ... Ensure solutions and readiness activities comply with Medica policies, regulatory, and legislative ...

Counsel (Hybrid)

Madison, WI · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Direct, manage and supervise outside counsel. * Represent TruStage before governmental, legislative and regulatory agencies and in trade association relations. * Develop legal expertise and high ...

Counsel (Hybrid)

Madison, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Direct, manage and supervise outside counsel. * Represent TruStage before governmental, legislative and regulatory agencies and in trade association relations. * Develop legal expertise and high ...

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Legislative Director information

See Madison, WI salary details

$48.4K

$124.9K

$185.9K

How much do legislative director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for legislative director in Madison, WI is $124,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,800.00 and $138,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

How much do legislative directors make?

Legislative directors in Washington, D.C. typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, organization size, and sector. Senior legislative directors or those working for high-profile agencies may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

What are the most commonly searched types of Legislative jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Legislative jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Legislative Director jobs in Madison, WI?

For Legislative Director jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Legislative Director jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Legislative Director jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Legislative Director jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Legislative Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Legislative Director job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,901 per year, or $60 per hour.

Administrative Assistant

State of Wisconsin

Madison, WI • On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 21 days ago


State Of Wisconsin rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
The Wisconsin Legislative Council is a nonpartisan service agency in the Wisconsin Legislature that provides legal and research services to legislative committees, legislators, and legislative staff in a collaborative work environment. We are located in beautiful downtown Madison, across from the State Capitol.
The position is full-time employment in the unclassified state service. The starting salary is $21-$28 per hour, based on relevant work experience and education. The position will have opportunities for professional development and growth.
A comprehensive state employee benefits package is offered, including 3.5 weeks of vacation time, 9 paid holidays, and sick leave. The Legislative Council is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program employer.
Position Summary
The Administrative Assistant is an integral part of the Legislative Council and has a variety of responsibilities to facilitate efficient daily operations and office organization. The administrative assistant is the first contact with our agency and works closely with all of the staff to support our services to the Legislature. The position requires strict nonpartisanship and maintaining confidentiality of certain materials and information.
Salary Information
The starting salary is $21-$28 per hour, based on relevant work experience and education
Job Details
The primary responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Proofing and formatting formal memoranda, publications, and other documents in a timely manner.
  • Providing administrative support for committees that the Legislative Council staffs, including preparing agendas and memoranda for committee members and arranging meetings.
  • Reception
    • Answering, screening, and forwarding incoming phone calls.
    • Receiving visitors at the front desk by greeting, welcoming, directing, and announcing them appropriately.
    • Responding to or distributing emails in the Legislative Council inbox.
    • Providing basic and accurate information in phone calls, through email, and in person.
  • Finance
    • Assist in preparing vouchers and invoices for director approval.
    • Monitoring office supplies, replacing low stock items, and purchasing supplies, as needed.
  • Office Operations
    • Receiving, sorting, and distributing mail daily.
    • Performing clerical duties, such as photocopying and scanning, as requested.
    • Updating the agency's website and intranet site.
    • Maintaining organization of office computer and paper files.
  • Displaying a team-oriented, collegial attitude toward Legislative Council staff coworkers.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Graduation from high school with demonstrated experience or a relevant associate or bachelor's degree.
  • Attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work around the core hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Competence in Microsoft Office suite and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Ability to work in a nonpartisan role.
  • Organizational skills to manage multiple projects and assignments and effectively prioritize work.
  • Dedication to providing outstanding customer service.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality in the performance of assigned duties.
Preferred Qualifications
  • General knowledge of Wisconsin state government.
  • Experience in preparing and proofing documents.
  • General research skills.

How To Apply
To apply, submit a resume and cover letter describing relevant skills and interest in the position by email to Katie Patyk, at LCApp@legis.wisconsin.gov .
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking a diverse and talented workforce.

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