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Political Lobbyist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVP - Health Advocacy

Washington, DC · On-site

$142K - $190K/yr

Candidates must have 4+ years of experience as a congressional staffer or lobbyist with expertise ... Show clear initiative in applying political strategy to achieve client business goals.

Candidates must have 4+ years of experience as a congressional staffer or lobbyist with expertise ... Show clear initiative in applying political strategy to achieve client business goals.

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Political Lobbyist information

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$19

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How much do political lobbyist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for political lobbyist in the United States is $19.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political lobbyist?

Political lobbyists are professionals who advocate on behalf of organizations, businesses, or interest groups to influence government policy and decision-making. They communicate with legislators, government officials, and regulatory agencies to present their clients' perspectives on specific issues or proposed laws. Lobbyists play a key role in the democratic process by providing information, raising concerns, and suggesting policy alternatives. Their work often involves research, strategic planning, and building relationships with policymakers. While their influence can be controversial, lobbyists must adhere to laws and ethical guidelines governing their activities.

How do political lobbyists collaborate with clients and legislators to advance policy objectives?

Political lobbyists frequently act as intermediaries between their clients—such as corporations, nonprofits, or advocacy groups—and lawmakers. They communicate client priorities, provide research and policy analysis, and organize meetings or events to build relationships with decision-makers. Collaboration often involves drafting position papers, facilitating discussions, and ensuring that both clients and legislators are informed about the implications of proposed legislation. Effective lobbyists must maintain transparency and adhere to legal and ethical standards while advocating for their clients' interests.

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

To thrive as a Political Lobbyist, you need a strong understanding of government processes, public policy, and excellent research and communication abilities, typically supported by a degree in political science, law, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking software, constituent management systems, and regulatory databases is commonly required. Persuasion, relationship-building, and strategic thinking are crucial soft skills for influencing stakeholders and navigating complex environments. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively advocating on behalf of clients and shaping legislative outcomes.

What is the difference between Political Lobbyist vs Policy Advocate?

AspectPolitical LobbyistPolicy Advocate
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in political science, law, or related fields; lobbying registration may be requiredUsually holds a degree in public policy, law, or related areas; may also need certifications in advocacy or policy analysis
Work EnvironmentWorks for lobbying firms, corporations, or interest groups, engaging with legislators and government officialsWorks for nonprofits, advocacy groups, or think tanks, focusing on policy research and public campaigns
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in government relations, corporate lobbying, and political consultingFound in nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and policy-focused institutions

While both roles aim to influence public policy, a Political Lobbyist primarily works directly with legislators to sway legislation, often representing specific interests. A Policy Advocate focuses on promoting policy changes through research, public campaigns, and stakeholder engagement. Both require strong communication skills and knowledge of the political process but differ in their methods and typical work environments.

How do you become a political lobbyist?

To become a political lobbyist, individuals typically gain experience in politics, law, or public relations, often by working for government agencies, advocacy groups, or legislative offices. Building strong communication, networking skills, and understanding policy issues are essential, and some may pursue a degree in political science, law, or related fields. While certification is not required, familiarity with lobbying laws and regulations is important for compliance and effectiveness.

How much do political lobbyists get paid?

Political lobbyists' salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and the size of their clients or organizations. Entry-level lobbyists typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, while experienced professionals can make over $150,000 or more, especially in high-profile or large firms. Compensation often includes bonuses and benefits, and successful lobbyists develop skills in policy analysis, communication, and relationship building.

Is lobbying a high paying job?

Political lobbyists can earn high salaries, especially those with extensive experience, strong networks, and specialized knowledge of policy areas. Compensation varies widely based on the employer, location, and level of influence, with senior lobbyists often earning six-figure incomes. Successful lobbyists may also receive bonuses and other incentives based on their effectiveness and client contracts.

What does a political lobbyist do in politics?

A political lobbyist advocates for specific interests or policies by communicating with lawmakers, government officials, and agencies to influence legislation and regulation. They often conduct research, build relationships, and develop strategies to support their clients' or organizations' goals within the political process.

What cities are hiring for Political Lobbyist jobs?

Cities with the most Political Lobbyist job openings:

What states have the most Political Lobbyist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Political Lobbyist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Political Lobbyist jobs?

For Political Lobbyist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Political Lobbyist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,323 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Political Activities Officer - Vice President

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Morgan Stanley
Finance and Insurance • 10K+ employees

$95K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Morgan Stanley rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We're seeking someone to join our team as a Government and Political Activities Compliance (GPAC) Officer to provide advisory coverage to business units on the various aspects of U.S. government interactions, administer the Firm's policy on U.S. political contributions and fundraising activities of employees, as well as compliance with applicable U.S. federal, state, and municipal rules that govern business interactions with government entities.
In the Legal & Compliance division, we assist the Firm in achieving its business objectives by facilitating and overseeing the Firm's management of legal, regulatory and franchise risk. This is a Vice President level position within the Government and Political Activities Compliance Group (GPAC) which focuses on compliance with U.S. federal, state and municipal regulations governing interactions with U.S. government officials, including political contribution/pay-to-play regulations, lobbying laws, placement agent activity, outside business activities, and gifts & entertainment/ethics rules across all of Morgan Stanley's various Business Units. GPAC designs, executes, and monitors applicable policies, procedures, and controls governing employee political activities and interactions with U.S. government officials.
Since 1935, Morgan Stanley is known as a global leader in financial services, always evolving and innovating to better serve our clients and our communities in more than 40 countries around the world.
What you'll do in the role:
  • Managing the firm's pre-clearance processes for employee and corporate political activities, outside government/political activities, post-government employment restrictions, outside business activities, and gifts and business entertainment requests for U.S. Government Officials
  • Review business solicitations of U.S. government entity business to determine if procurement lobbyist registration is required
  • Managing the firm's various political law filings such as lobbying reports and pay-to-play certifications
  • Creating and conducting trainings for business units, as well as other areas that serve a control function, to address pay-to-play and governmental ethics issues
  • Monitoring and testing adherence to the firm's political law compliance program
  • Collaborating cross-functionally with other GFC and Legal and Compliance stakeholders on the development and implementation of technology projects, internal audits, regulatory requests and implementation of controls for the overall political law compliance program
  • Maintaining and updating applicable policies and procedures consistent with current regulations.

What you'll bring to the role:
  • Knowledge of US pay-to-play and ethics issues at federal, state and municipal levels
  • 7+ years of relevant experience, preferably at a large/complex financial institution, law firm, or government/regulatory body.
  • Exceptional research, written, and verbal communications skills, attention to detail, effective time management and project management.
  • Ability to assess regulatory requirements and advise stakeholders on compliance obligations and risk mitigation strategies
  • Strong executive presence with the ability to communicate effectively and engage confidently with business clients and senior leaders across Legal and Compliance
  • Demonstrates strong technology aptitude, with the ability to quickly learn new systems and tools, and using AI and available tools to implement process enhancements,
  • Proficient with Copilot, Claude, Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Adobe
  • JD preferred, Bachelor's degree required

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM MORGAN STANLEY:
At Morgan Stanley, we raise, manage and allocate capital for our clients - helping them reach their goals. We do it in a way that's differentiated - and we've done that for 90 years. Our values - putting clients first, doing the right thing, leading with exceptional ideas, committing to diversity and inclusion, and giving back - aren't just beliefs, they guide the decisions we make every day to do what's best for our clients, communities and more than 80,000 employees in 1,200 offices across 42 countries. At Morgan Stanley, you'll find an opportunity to work alongside the best and the brightest, in an environment where you are supported and empowered. Our teams are relentless collaborators and creative thinkers, fueled by their diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are proud to support our employees and their families at every point along their work-life journey, offering some of the most attractive and comprehensive employee benefits and perks in the industry. There's also ample opportunity to move about the business for those who show passion and grit in their work.
To learn more about our offices across the globe, please copy and paste https://www.morganstanley.com/about-us/global-offices into your browser.
Salary range for the position: $95000 - $170000 Yr. The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary incentive compensation award. The successful candidate may be eligible to participate in the relevant business unit's incentive compensation plan, which also may include a discretionary bonus component. Morgan Stanley offers a full spectrum of benefits, including Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Dependent Day Care Savings Account, Life Insurance, Disability and Other Insurance Plans, Paid Time Off (including Sick Leave consistent with state and local law, Parental Leave and X Vacation Days annually), 10 Paid Holidays, 401(k), and Short/Long Term Disability, in addition to other special perks reserved for our employees. Please visit mybenefits.morganstanley.com to learn more about our benefit
offerings.
Morgan Stanley is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a workforce that is diverse in experience and background. Our recruiting efforts reflect our strong commitment to a culture of inclusion, where individuals are hired, developed, and advanced based on their skills and talents.
Our workforce reflects a broad cross-section of the global communities in which we operate, bringing a variety of backgrounds, talents, perspectives, and experiences.
For more information, please visit: https://www.morganstanley.com/people-opportunities/eeo.

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About Morgan Stanley

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Since our founding in 1935, Morgan Stanley has been committed to serving local and global communities by being a market leader in Investment Banking, Securities, Investment Management and Wealth Management services. Our belief that capital can work to benefit all of society inspires us to put our clients first, lead with exceptional ideas, hold our business to high ethical standards, and give back to communities around the world through philanthropy and public works. We have a smart casual dress code and operate under a philosophy that balances work with your personal life. Our people's talent, passion, and expertise is the fuel on which our organization runs, therefore, our people are our greatest asset. Diversity and inclusiveness is a critical component for our success and it is our priority to continue building a firm that values the unique background and identity of every one of our employees, thus enabling our people to bring their full, and best selves to work each day. Teamwork is the essence of our approach, and so are the values of integrity, excellence, and enabling our people to achieve at the highest levels. We invite you to learn more about our commitment to diversity and serving our community.

Industry

Finance and insurance and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US