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Local State Government Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essc

State Government Relations Director

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

The Director of State Government Relations (California) leads Easterseals Southern California ... Regular in-state travel, including to Sacramento and local districts, required. Ability to travel ...

Abbott

Director State Government Affairs

Abbott, TX

Director State Government Affairs Location: Abbott Park, IL Abbott is a global healthcare leader ... local governments. * Brief and staff Abbott senior leadership during policy-related meetings or ...

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How much do local state government jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for local state government in the United States is $112,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Local State Government role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Local State Government position, you typically need a solid understanding of public administration, policy analysis, and often a degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with government management systems, budgeting software, and regulatory compliance tools is important. Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills set top performers apart in these roles. These competencies are vital for effectively serving the public, implementing policies, and ensuring transparent and efficient government operations.

What career advancement opportunities are typically available for employees in local state government roles?

Local state government positions often offer clear pathways for career growth, with opportunities to move into supervisory or managerial roles as you gain experience. Employees may also have access to professional development programs, certifications, and specialized training that can help them transition into different departments or higher-level positions. Advancement is frequently based on a combination of job performance, tenure, and participation in ongoing education. Many local governments encourage internal promotion, making it possible for dedicated staff to build long-term, rewarding careers within the organization.

What are local state government jobs?

Local state government jobs are positions within government agencies and departments that operate at the city, county, or state level. These roles span various fields such as public administration, law enforcement, public health, education, transportation, and social services. Employees in these positions work to implement policies, deliver public services, and ensure the effective operation of government functions. Local and state government jobs often offer stability, benefits, and opportunities to make a positive impact on the community.

What is the difference between Local State Government vs City Planner?

AspectLocal State GovernmentCity Planner
Required CredentialsVaries by state, often includes a degree in public administration, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, public meetings, community outreachUrban areas, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageState government agencies, public sectorMunicipal governments, urban planning firms, public agencies

While both roles serve the public sector, Local State Government professionals oversee broader state policies and programs, whereas City Planners focus specifically on urban development and land use planning within cities. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in government and urban planning sectors.

What cities are hiring for Local State Government jobs? Cities with the most Local State Government job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of State Government jobs? The most popular types of State Government jobs are:
What states have the most Local State Government jobs? States with the most job openings for Local State Government jobs include:
Local State Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local State Government job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,547 per year, or $54.1 per hour.
State Government Relations Director

State Government Relations Director

Essc

Irvine, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Easterseals Southern California transforms lives every day. For over a century, Easterseals has championed inclusion and independence-delivering essential services like early childhood programs, autism services, employment and independent living support to more than 29,000 people each year. Through advocacy and education, we break barriers and create opportunities for the one-in-four Americans with disabilities.

The Director of State Government Relations (California) leads Easterseals Southern California's state advocacy and government relations strategy. This role oversees legislative engagement, funding and appropriations requests, coalition partnerships, and policy communications to support organizational priorities. The Director serves as a key liaison to state policymakers, agencies, coalition partners, and internal leadership, driving coordinated advocacy efforts that advance ESSC's mission and services.
Starting Salary Range: $140,000k - $175,000k / yr.

OVERVIEW OF POSITION:

The Director of State Government Relations (California) is responsible for leading and executing Easterseals Southern California's state-level advocacy and government relations strategy. This role manages all California legislative engagement, appropriations and funding requests, coalition participation, and policy communications in alignment with organizational priorities. The Director serves as a key strategist and relationship manager with state policymakers, administrative agencies, coalition partners, and internal leaders, ensuring coordinated, high-impact advocacy that advances ESSC's mission and service delivery.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • With alignment from VP of Government Relations, leads and executes ESSC's California state advocacy strategy, including legislative visits to Sacramento and coordinated in-district meetings.
  • Tracks, analyses, and prioritizes state legislation, budget proposals, and regulatory actions impacting ESSC services.
  • Develops legislative "asks," position statements, and briefing materials for leadership and advocates.
  • Serves as a primary liaison with state legislators, legislative staff, and relevant state agencies.
  • Identifies and advances state budget, appropriations, and funding opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.
  • Coordinates funding request development with leadership, program teams, and finance.
  • Monitors the Governor's Budget, May Revision, and final budget outcomes and recommend advocacy actions.
  • Builds and actively engages in strategic coalitions across disability, health, and human services sectors.
  • Represents ESSC in coalition meetings and align joint strategies and messaging.
  • Identifies opportunities for ESSC to lead or co-lead coalition initiatives.
  • Translates complex policy issues into clear communications for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Prepares leaders for legislative meetings through briefings and materials.
  • Ensures compliance with state lobbying registration and reporting requirements.
  • Represents ESSC at public hearings both locally and in Sacramento.

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

  • 7-10 years of California state government relations or advocacy experience.

EXEPECTED NUMBER OF DIRECT REPORTS: Individual contributor

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook (email and calendar management), Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, for correspondence, analysis, briefing materials, and presentations.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for policymakers, coalition partners, and internal audiences.
  • Deep understanding of the California legislative and budget process.
  • Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining effective relationships with state legislators, legislative staff, agency officials, and coalition partners.
  • Strong strategic thinking and judgment, including the ability to prioritize among competing policy opportunities and risks.
  • Experience coordinating across internal teams (e.g., programs, finance, communications, leadership) to align advocacy strategy and funding requests.
  • Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously in a fastpaced, deadlinedriven environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation per Easterseals of Southern California and/or program requirements.
  • Must have reliable transportation to attend offsite meetings and engagements.
  • Must pass all drug testing required by ESSC.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ADA:

  • Carrying/Lifting:

Occasional / 0-30 lbs.

  • Standing:

Occasional / 0-30 lbs.

  • Sitting:

Constant / Up to 8 hours per day.

  • Walking:

Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day.

  • Travel:

Regular in-state travel, including to Sacramento and local districts, required. Ability to travel independently to external meetings and events.

  • Repetitive Motion/Activity:

Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.

  • Visual Acuity:

Ability to view computer monitor and read newsprint.

  • Environmental Exposure:

Standard office and travel environment.

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