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Legislative Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of South Dakota

Legislative Attorney

Pierre, SD · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

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 ...

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How much do legislative research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for legislative research 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 is legislative research?

Legislative research is the process of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information related to laws, policies, and government actions. Professionals in this field support lawmakers, advocacy groups, or organizations by providing data and background on proposed legislation, existing statutes, and policy issues. The research helps inform decision-making, policy formulation, and legislative drafting. It often involves reviewing legal documents, summarizing key findings, and presenting concise reports.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Legislative Research role, and how can they be managed?

Legislative Research professionals often encounter challenges such as navigating large volumes of complex legal documents, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring the accuracy of their analyses. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management. Additionally, collaborating closely with lawmakers, policy analysts, and legal teams can help clarify research objectives and ensure that findings are both relevant and actionable. Regular communication and staying updated with legislative changes are key to success in this dynamic environment.

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

To thrive as a Legislative Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in political science, law, or public policy. Proficiency with legislative databases, research tools, and data analysis software is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills help you synthesize complex information and present clear findings. These skills ensure accurate, timely, and actionable insights that support informed legislative decision-making.
More about Legislative Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Legislative Research jobs? Cities with the most Legislative Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Legislative Research jobs? The most popular types of Legislative Research jobs are:
What states have the most Legislative Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Legislative Research jobs include:
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Legislative Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legislative Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,183 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Legislative Research Council Director

Legislative Research Council Director

State of South Dakota

Pierre, SD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job ID: 36451 - Legislative Research Council Director
Agency: South Dakota Legislative Research Council
Location: Pierre
Closing Date: 7.24.26
The South Dakota Legislative Research Council (LRC) is accepting applications for a permanent, full-time Director. The Director is responsible for the administration, management, and strategic direction of the LRC. The Director ensures that the staff of the LRC provides professional, confidential, and objective research, legal, and fiscal services to the 105 members of the South Dakota Legislature.
Duties of the Director include:
  1. Overseeing the LRC's Legal, Fiscal, and Information Technology divisions, as well as the Operations division;
  2. Providing staff services to the Executive Board of the Legislative Research Council;
  3. Providing staff services to the House, Senate, and Joint Legislative Procedure Committees;
  4. Hiring, supervising, and evaluating the LRC's staff attorneys, analysts, and support personnel;
  5. Developing and managing the LRC's budget;
  6. Serving as the parliamentary advisor to the South Dakota Legislature;
  7. Assisting the Code Counsel to ensure that the Administrative Rules of South Dakota, Session Laws of South Dakota, and South Dakota Codified Laws are properly updated, current, and accurate; and
  8. Performing all statutorily required functions.

Minimum Qualifications: The successful candidate must possess:
  1. A graduate or Juris Doctor degree;
  2. Extensive experience in a legislative environment; and
  3. Managerial or supervisory experience.

Salary Range: The salary is dependent upon a candidate's qualifications and experience.
Application Process: A letter of interest, resume, at least 3 references, and any supporting documents should be submitted online (https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=49M) or e-mailed to Rachael.Person@sdlegislature.gov.
The application process will remain open until Friday, July 24, 2026.
Rachael Person
Chief of Legislative Operations
South Dakota Legislative Research Council
500 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501
605-773-3251

Apply