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Trade Association Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metro Trading Association

Outside Sales

Rochester, MI

Outside Sales Representative - 1099 Independent Contractor | Metro Trading Association Location: Rochester Hills, MI (Field-based | Local Travel Required) Compensation: 1099 Commission-Only ...

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Shift4

Government Affairs Associate

Center Valley, PA · Hybrid

This role focuses on maintaining trade associations, regulatory monitoring across global jurisdictions, reporting dashboards, and interfacing with key stakeholders to advance the organization ...

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Trade Association information

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$12.5K

$54.6K

$94K

How much do trade association jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trade association in the United States is $54,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are trade associations?

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 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 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 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.
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Trade Association jobs near you
Senior Counsel

Senior Counsel

National Association of REALTORS®

Chicago, IL • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

This position can be based in the Chicago or Washington D.C. office.
Position Summary:
The Senior Counsel, Legal Affairs is a key member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Legal Affairs team and provides high-quality legal counsel and risk management support across the organization. This position advises NAR staff, leadership, affiliates, and subsidiaries on a broad range of legal issues affecting the National Association of REALTORS, with a particular focus on tax-exempt and nonprofit law, corporate governance, employment law, and privacy law. The Senior Counsel partners closely with internal stakeholders to support NAR's mission, ensure legal compliance, and proactively mitigate organizational risk.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Legal Counsel and Risk Management
  • Provide ongoing legal advice and practical guidance to NAR staff, affiliates, and subsidiaries on organizational legal matters, including tax-exempt law, corporate governance, employment law, and privacy and data protection issues.
  • Assist internal clients in identifying legal risks and developing compliant, business-focused solutions consistent with NAR policies and objectives.
  • Respond to general legal inquiries from NAR staff and stakeholders in a timely and service-oriented manner.
Tax-Exempt and Governance Support
  • Advise on issues affecting NAR's tax-exempt status, including governance, programs, activities, and compliance considerations.
  • Review and provide guidance on governing documents, policies, and board-related matters, including fiduciary duties and best practices for association governance.
  • Support the development, review, and implementation of governance-related policies and internal protocols.
Employment and Privacy Law
  • Provide legal support on employment-related matters, including policy review, compliance issues, and risk mitigation, working collaboratively with Human Resources and outside counsel as appropriate.
  • Advise on privacy and data protection matters, including internal policies, compliance obligations, and emerging legal risks related to data use and protection.
Contracts and Legal Review
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and other legal documents involving NAR, its affiliates, and subsidiaries.
  • Provide guidance and develop resources to address recurring contract-related issues and reduce organizational risk.
Legal Research, Education, and Resources
  • Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, guidance, articles, and risk management materials on issues relevant to NAR and REALTOR® associations.
  • Assist in the development and delivery of educational programming, presentations, and training for NAR staff, association executives, and other stakeholders on legal and compliance topics.
Collaboration and Additional Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with other members of the Legal Affairs team on cross-functional initiatives and projects.
  • Coordinate with outside counsel as needed.
  • Stay current on legal developments affecting trade associations, nonprofit organizations, and the real estate industry.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
  • Active license to practice law in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, or eligibility for admission as in-house counsel, as applicable.
  • 5+ years of legal experience as in-house counsel to a trade association or corporation/company, or at a law firm advising trade associations, nonprofit organizations, or corporate clients.
  • Demonstrated experience advising on:
    • Tax-exempt and nonprofit law
    • Corporate or association governance
    • Employment law
    • Privacy or data protection law
  • Understanding of, or experience with, real estate law is a plus.
  • Strong legal analysis, writing, and communication skills.
  • Ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, practical guidance for non-legal audiences.
  • Sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Collaborative mindset and commitment to NAR's mission and service-oriented culture.
Compensation: $180,000-$200,000 depending on office location
NAR provides comprehensive benefits including health/dental/vision insurance.
NAR is on a hybrid schedule and in the office 3 days a week.
Organizational Overview:
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) is a team of professionals dedicated to providing world-class service to approximately 1.5 million REALTORS® working in the United States and around the world. The real estate industry is fast-paced and fast-changing--each year, our members participate in the sale, lease, and management of real estate. As in every industry, our members' value proposition is constantly being challenged by innovation.
It is our mission to empower REALTORS® as they preserve, protect and advance the right to real property for all. We cannot do that without the ideas, passion, and commitment from our talented employees. As our greatest assets, employees are offered their pick of competitive benefits/perks and flexible work options.

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