ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trade Association Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Robert Half

Executive Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$75K - $86K/yr

Trade Association $90k Executive Assistant Bethesda, MD, great benefits, plus bonus, free parking My client is Trade Association with Headquarters in the Washington, D.C. area with a need for an ...

Addison Group

Human Resources Coordinator

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Nonprofit Trade Association Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid) Assignment Type: Contract | 4-6 Months Pay: $23 - $26 / Hour, depending on experience Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM ...

Addison Group

Executive Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Trade Association / Nonprofit Location (city, state): Washington, DC Assignment Type: Direct Hire Pay: $104,000 - $116,000 / year Work Schedule: Hybrid -- in-office Tuesday through Thursday Benefits:

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTrade Association JobsTrade Association Jobs in Washington

Trade Association information

See Washington salary details

$14.2K

$61.8K

$106.5K

How much do trade association jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for trade association in Washington is $61,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trade association?

Trade associations are organizations founded and funded by businesses that operate in a specific industry. Their main purpose is to promote the interests of their members by advocating for favorable policies, providing industry research, setting standards, and offering networking opportunities. Trade associations often organize events, training, and certification programs to help members stay informed and competitive. Membership can help companies gain credibility, access resources, and influence industry regulations.

What types of projects or initiatives might I work on as a team member within a trade association?

As a team member in a trade association, you may be involved in a variety of projects such as organizing industry conferences, developing policy briefs, coordinating member communications, and advocating for legislative or regulatory changes. Collaborative efforts often include working with member companies, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address industry challenges and promote best practices. These projects provide opportunities to develop industry expertise, strengthen professional networks, and contribute to the growth and reputation of the sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trade association manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trade Association Manager, you need expertise in organizational leadership, industry knowledge, and stakeholder engagement, often supported by a degree in business, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with association management software (AMS), event planning tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills are crucial for building relationships and representing member interests. These skills and qualities are vital for advancing the association’s goals, ensuring member satisfaction, and maintaining effective operations.

What is the difference between Trade Association vs Certification Specialist?

AspectTrade AssociationCertification Specialist
Required CredentialsNone specific; industry membershipsCertifications related to industry standards (e.g., Certified Professional)
Work EnvironmentIndustry events, advocacy, member servicesOffice-based, client interactions, certification management
Employer & Industry UsageTrade organizations, industry groupsCompanies, certification bodies, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding industry groups, networkingCertifications, professional development

Trade associations focus on industry advocacy, networking, and member services, often without requiring specific credentials. Certification specialists handle industry certifications, requiring relevant certifications and expertise. Both roles serve different functions but are integral to industry growth and professional development.

What does a trade association do?

A trade association is an organization that represents and advocates for a specific industry or profession. It provides resources such as industry standards, networking opportunities, training, and lobbying efforts to support its members' interests and growth.

What are popular job titles related to Trade Association jobs in Washington?

For Trade Association jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trade Association jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Trade Association jobs in Washington are:

Trade Association jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trade Association job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,844 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Vice President, International Trade

Retail Industry Leaders Association

Washington, DC • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Apply via our job board here: https://secure.builtapp.com/rila/jobs/0522ff32

Job Description:
At the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), we convene decision-makers, advocate for the retail industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is bold but simple: to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate. 
 
We are a dynamic, collaborative, team-oriented trade association in Washington, DC. Our employees are passionate about customer service and supporting our members and each other, and we are adding to the team!  

Position Summary:
The Vice President of International Trade serves as RILA’s lead government affairs expert and advocate on international trade, customs, and responsible sourcing matters impacting the retail industry. This dynamic, multi-faceted role represents RILA before Congress, federal agencies, and other key stakeholders, advancing the interests of member companies and supporting the association’s policy objectives. The Vice President leads member engagement through RILA committee leadership and working groups, providing strategic policy guidance, updates, and platforms for member feedback and collaboration.
 
Position Responsibilities:
  • Serve as RILA’s primary government affairs lead on trade and customs-related matters.
  • Develop and maintain strategic relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees, and federal agencies.
  • Draft and submit comments on relevant rulemakings and notices published in the Federal Register.
  • Plan and lead congressional outreach and briefings on priority issues.
  • Draft and coordinate testimony for congressional hearings and letters to the Hill.
  • Lead and manage RILA member committees and working groups, including leading monthly calls, planning in-person meetings, and providing timely updates on trade and customs matters.
  • Manage and participate in various coalitions and coordinate industry input and ensure RILA’s members and perspectives are represented.
  • Oversee work of outside consultants and resources to ensure alignment with policy goals.
  • Supports junior Government Affairs staff through coaching, workload coordination, and professional development activities that strengthen individual and team performance.
  • Contribute thought leadership to RILA newsletters and policy publications.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with other RILA issue leads to deliver seamless member services and content.
 
 Skills & Experience:
  • Proven trade knowledge and issue expertise.
  • Experience gained through a combination of lobbying for a trade association or company and/or service on Capitol Hill, in a federal agency, or within a presidential administration.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and build relationships with members, external partners, and/or stakeholders.
  • Leverage strong judgment, critical thinking, and political awareness to develop and implement effective strategies for achieving public policy goals.
  • Strong operational skills, with the ability to effectively work both collaboratively with our team, RILA members, and independently.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, without compromising quality of work.
  • Ability to create, manage, and facilitate content for virtual and in-person committee meetings.
  • Curiosity, flexibility, and willingness to change and adapt with the fast-paced retail industry.
  • Travel to meetings and events as necessary.
  • This position is located in DC.  
 
Compensation & Benefits: 
  • $180,000 - $200,000 salary range. 
  • Flexible and hybrid office environment (3 days in office). 
  • Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage (FSA/HSA options available).
  • Employer-sponsored Life Insurance, STD, and LTD Coverage.
  • 401(K)/Roth 401(K) Retirement Plan with employer match.
  • Mental Wellness Health Reimbursement Arrangement.
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off + 12 Federal holiday closures.
  • 12 weeks paid parental leave.
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Team outings/gatherings. 
 
***
RILA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. 
 

Application Instructions:
Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for the position to our job board here - https://secure.builtapp.com/rila/jobs/0522ff32. Learn more about RILA at https://www.rila.org/about-rila/careers. 
Thanks!