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University Government Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Liberty

Government Relations Student Worker

Lynchburg, VA

$38.90K - $48.60K/yr

The Government Relations Student Worker will assist the Office of Government Relations with a ... It will also require the ability to be on Liberty University's main campus during every shift. The ...

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$51.5K

$106.5K

$169.5K

How much do university government relations jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for university government relations in the United States is $106,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a University Government Relations professional, and why are they important?

Success in University Government Relations requires expertise in public policy, higher education administration, and a relevant degree such as public affairs or political science. Familiarity with legislative tracking tools, advocacy platforms, and compliance systems is typically necessary. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic negotiation skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital for effectively representing university interests, influencing policy, and fostering productive partnerships with government stakeholders.

How does a University Government Relations professional typically collaborate with faculty and administrators to advance institutional priorities?

University Government Relations professionals frequently work with faculty and administrators to identify legislative priorities, communicate institutional needs, and develop advocacy strategies. They coordinate meetings, prepare briefing materials, and facilitate direct engagement between university leaders and policymakers. This collaborative approach ensures that the university’s interests are effectively represented at local, state, and federal levels, and helps align internal initiatives with external funding and policy opportunities.

What are university government relations?

University government relations refer to the efforts and activities by colleges and universities to build and maintain relationships with local, state, and federal government officials and agencies. These professionals advocate for the institution’s interests, such as funding, legislation, and policy initiatives that impact higher education. They often coordinate lobbying efforts, monitor policy developments, and act as a liaison between the university and government entities. Their work is vital for securing resources and influencing public policy to benefit the university community.

What is the difference between University Government Relations vs University Public Affairs?

AspectUniversity Government RelationsUniversity Public Affairs
Primary FocusBuilding relationships with government agencies and policymakersManaging communication and reputation with the public and media
Work EnvironmentPolicy offices, government buildings, campusMedia outlets, community events, campus
Required CredentialsTypically a background in political science, public policy, or related fieldsOften a background in communications, public relations, or media studies

University Government Relations primarily focuses on engaging with government entities to influence policy and secure funding, while University Public Affairs handles communication strategies to promote the university's image and manage public perception. Both roles are essential for university advocacy but differ in their core activities and target audiences.

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What cities are hiring for University Government Relations jobs? Cities with the most University Government Relations job openings:
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What job categories do people searching University Government Relations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for University Government Relations jobs are:
University Government Relations jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Government Relations job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,522 per year, or $51.2 per hour.
Director, Government & Community Relations

Director, Government & Community Relations

The Catholic University Of America

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Posting Title
Director, Government & Community Relations
Overview
The Director for Government and Community Relations supports advocacy and engagement of local, state, and federal officials for The Catholic University of America. Reporting to the Associate VP, this position focuses on building and strengthening the University's relationships with government officials, key agencies, and community-based organizations. The Director will work with external firms, a broad-based set of internal stakeholders across the institution, and alumni and other constituent groups to further position Catholic University as an agent of change and effective implementer of key projects and initiatives that can serve governmental and municipal interests.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement government relations strategies in collaboration with the Associate Vice President and University leadership. Coordinates the day-to-day work with the University's external lobbying firm, including scheduling, creating background materials for member/officials meetings, and arranging for the participation of University leaders as needed.
Serve as a key point of contact for government officials/office staff locally and regionally. Coordinate and follow through on requests for support, involvement or resources.
Represent the University in the community and region, including membership and trade organizations, and support for the University's work with its corresponding Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC). Identify strategic opportunities for community partnership with a particular focus on DC, northern Virginia, and lower counties in Maryland, Montgomery, and Prince George's.
Create and edit presentations, white papers, status reports/backgrounders, and other materials as needed in support of advocacy/policy work. This extends to preparing other members of the team or University leadership for their participation in advocacy and informational meetings.
Collaborate with external lobbying firms to monitor key proposed and recently passed legislation (local, state, federal), determine potential impact on the university, and advise University leadership as needed. Coordinate University correspondence for issues that relate to policy, lobbying, special requests, and projects.
Develops initiatives and proposals to generate funding for various university departments in alignment with government funding, agency priorities, and through the federal appropriations process.
Work closely with the Office of Alumni Engagement and other departments (Politics / Arts and Sciences), to engage alumni in building and growing the University's government relations work, through networking/engagement opportunities with alumni working on Capitol Hill or in public service, and eventually via creation of an advocacy network. Assist Advancement colleagues with the cultivation of relationships with Catholic University alumni in elected office and other key officials at the state and District government levels.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree with 5-6 years of related experience in government and community affairs work.
Prior experience working in government / sound understanding of the way government agencies (local / DC, state, federal) function, is strongly preferred.
Strong presentation, communication, and organizational skills. An ability to work with and support a wide range of constituents, e.g., faculty, staff, leadership, government contacts, high-level officials, students, and alumni.
Ability to analyze data, understand market trends, make connections, and develop and implement strategies of varying complexity.
A high degree of creativity, energy, and initiative is essential.
Must possess an understanding of the policy-making process and political landscape locally, regionally, and at the federal level. Experience working in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment and demonstrated flexibility in meeting shifting demands and priorities is a must.

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