1

State Government Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

State Government Affairs Director

Oakland, CA · On-site

$200 - $230/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Develop and successfully execute advocacy strategies in state legislatures and administrations in coordination with VP, State Government Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement, the broader Corporate ...

State Government Affairs Director

Oakland, CA · On-site

$200K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exempt The State Government Affairs Director is responsible for RWE Americas' state government affairs portfolio in the West region (California, Intermountain West States), building and maintaining ...

State Government Affairs Director

Oakland, CA · On-site

$200K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exempt The State Government Affairs Director is responsible for RWE Americas' state government affairs portfolio in the West region (California, Intermountain West States), building and maintaining ...

Government Affairs Manager

Hawthorne, CA · Hybrid

$110K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree * 5+ years of experience working in public affairs, including but not limited to state and local government policy, advocacy, government affairs, and/or legislative navigation and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

State Government information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$111.1K

$154.5K

How much do state government jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for state government in California is $111,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are state government jobs?

State government jobs are positions within the various departments, agencies, and offices that make up a state's government. These jobs can range from administrative roles, law enforcement, healthcare, and education to engineering and information technology. State government employees work to implement laws, provide public services, and support the operations of the state. They often receive competitive benefits, job stability, and opportunities for advancement. Each state has its own hiring process and requirements for government positions.

What are state government jobs?

State government jobs are positions in which you have an opportunity to contribute to the community and the public good, but you aren’t an elected official. While jobs like the governor and state representatives are important, those people couldn’t do their work without civil servants. State government jobs include secretaries, accountants, teachers, librarians, maintenance technicians, and public relations workers. Local government also hires people with the right qualifications to take on the responsibilities of maintaining state and local government programs. As a public servant, your job duties vary based on the department you choose.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in state government roles?

Professionals in state government often encounter challenges such as navigating complex regulatory frameworks, managing limited resources, and balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders. They may also experience shifting priorities due to changes in political leadership or public policy. Collaboration across departments and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring the successful implementation of state programs and services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a state government role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a state government role, you generally need a relevant degree (such as public administration, law, or political science), strong analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of government regulations and policies. Familiarity with government management systems, budgeting software, and project management tools is often required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills help individuals stand out in these positions. These competencies are crucial for effectively shaping and implementing public policy, ensuring compliance, and serving the needs of the community.

What is the difference between State Government vs State Government Clerk?

AspectState GovernmentState Government Clerk
Required CredentialsVaries by position; often includes high school diploma or higherHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, public service settingsClerical offices, administrative departments within government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageState agencies, departments, and officesClerical and administrative units within state government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonGeneral state government rolesClerical positions within state government

The main difference is that 'State Government' refers broadly to government agencies and roles at the state level, while 'State Government Clerk' is a specific clerical position within those agencies. Clerks handle administrative tasks, filing, and data entry, often requiring basic certifications. Understanding this distinction helps job seekers target the right roles within the public sector.

What are the most commonly searched types of State Government jobs in California?

The most popular types of State Government jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for State Government jobs?

Cities in California with the most State Government job openings:

Infographic showing various State Government job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,073 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

State Government Affairs Director

RWE Gruppe

Oakland, CA • On-site

$200 - $230/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Role Responsibilities
  • Represent and advocate for RWE and its policy priorities with state legislatures and administrations through regular meetings, communications, and via our outside consultants
  • Develop and successfully execute advocacy strategies in state legislatures and administrations in coordination with VP, State Government Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement, the broader Corporate Affairs team, other relevant internal teams, and our outside consultants
  • Build, maintain, and deepen strategic relationships with state policymakers in core markets
  • Engage with industry trade associations and ensure RWE’s policy and advocacy preferences are represented in their industry-wide advocacy work
  • Build, maintain, and deepen relationships with industry trade associations and Government Affairs counterparts at competitor companies
  • Track, monitor, and engage on relevant legislation
  • Help develop and execute political fundraising strategy in coordination with outside consultants
  • Attend and potentially testify/present at industry association, legislative, and administrative meetings, briefing, and conferences, as required
  • Work across internal teams to rapidly coordinate internal policy positions in response to legislative and regulatory proposals and engage in legislative negotiations to represent RWE’s positions
  • Other duties as assigned
Job Requirements and Experiences
  • Bachelor’s Degree in political science, government, or other related field required
  • Master’s Degree preferred
  • Minimum 7 years working in state government, Congress, the Executive Branch, or industry advocacy
  • Intimate knowledge of legislative processes and strong political acumen required
  • Energy and/or tax-related policy experience preferred
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to manage external stakeholder relationships
  • Proven ability to build and maintain political networks in multiple jurisdictions
  • Excellent proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Teams
  • Strong leadership and communication skills, both written and verbal, and ability to meet deadlines
  • Strong organization skills and ability to coordinate multiple tasks and deliverables
  • Ability to prioritize competing work and drive to completion
  • Demonstrated experience working well under pressure, especially in legislative settings
  • Ability to multi-task, while working independently and as part of a team
  • Motivated self-starter, goal-oriented, and strong problem-solving abilities
  • Proven ability to build relationships and effectively communicate with people from a diverse set of backgrounds
  • Responds well to direction, is easy to challenge and develop, and is coachable
  • Is detail-oriented, has strong business acumen, and a sound understanding of business concept
  • Must be able to sit, walk, or stand for long durations of time

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. RWE Americas is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

Location: Sacramento or Oakland, CA with travel to state capitals in the region and visits to other RWE office and field locations.

Pay range

The annual base salary range for this position in California is $200,000 - $230,000. The listed salary range represents our good faith estimate for this position and represents the range for new hire salaries across all U.S locations. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. RWE considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s education & work experience, training & certifications, and key skills as well as market and business considerations at the time of the offer.

Benefits offered

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays. Eligible employees also participate in short-term incentives, in addition to salary.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

#J-18808-Ljbffr