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Legislative Session Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of South Dakota

Legislative Attorney

Pierre, SD · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

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 ...

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How much do legislative session jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for legislative session 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legislative Session Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legislative Session Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of legislative processes, often supported by a relevant degree or administrative experience. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, document management systems, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, discretion, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate support to legislators, effective workflow management, and smooth operation during fast-paced sessions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working during a legislative session?

Professionals working during a legislative session often encounter fast-paced environments, long hours, and rapidly changing priorities as bills are introduced, debated, and amended. The workload can be intense, especially as deadlines approach, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills. Collaboration with legislators, staff, and stakeholders is essential, and clear communication is key to navigating the complexities of the legislative process. Adaptability and resilience are important qualities for managing the stress and unpredictability that come with the role.

What is a legislative session?

A legislative session is a specific period during which a legislative body, such as a state legislature or Congress, meets to conduct its business. During these sessions, lawmakers introduce, debate, amend, and vote on proposed legislation and other matters. The length and frequency of legislative sessions vary by jurisdiction, with some meeting annually and others biennially. Legislative sessions are crucial for the development and passage of laws that impact the public.

What is the difference between Legislative Session vs Legislative Assistant?

AspectLegislative SessionLegislative Assistant
CredentialsNone specific, varies by jurisdictionTypically requires a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or related field
Work EnvironmentLegislative chambers, government buildings, during legislative periodsOffices of legislators, government buildings, supporting legislative activities
Employer & Industry UsageState and federal legislatures, government agenciesLegislators, government offices, political organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding legislative periods and processesUnderstanding roles supporting legislative work

In summary, a Legislative Session refers to the period when laws are debated and passed within a legislative body, while a Legislative Assistant is a professional who supports legislators by researching, drafting, and managing legislative activities during and outside these sessions.

More about Legislative Session jobs
What states have the most Legislative Session jobs? States with the most job openings for Legislative Session jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Legislative Session jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Legislative Session jobs are:
Legislative Session jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legislative Session job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 32% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 66% 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

Posted 4 days ago

State Of South Dakota rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd 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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