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University Government Relations Jobs in Rochester, NY

University Government Relations information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$50.8K

$105.1K

$167.2K

How much do university government relations jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for university government relations in Rochester, NY is $105,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $133,200.00 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.

What job categories do people searching University Government Relations jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for University Government Relations jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for University Government Relations jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most University Government Relations job openings:
Infographic showing various University Government Relations job openings in Rochester, NY as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,102 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Government & Community Relations Associate III

Government & Community Relations Associate III

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY • Hybrid

$21.60 - $34.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Rochester Institute Of Technology rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 528 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Provides administrative support in interactions with public officials and government agencies, ensuring all necessary materials and documentation are prepared and organized efficiently
  • Handles logistics for meetings between university leadership and government representatives, including scheduling, venue preparation, and technical setup to facilitate effective discussions
  • Drafts and maintains essential documents such as briefing papers, official correspondence, and reports that support the university's interactions with government bodies
  • Monitors legislative and regulatory developments that could impact the university, ensuring timely updates are communicated to relevant stakeholders and incorporated into strategic planning
  • Assists in the compilation and preparation of compliance documents and other required reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to governmental regulations and deadlines
  • Supports the facilitation of governmental engagement activities under guidance, helping to organize events, workshops, and public hearings that enhance relationships with government entities and community groups
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal government operations, legislative cycles, and funding mechanisms
  • Knowledge of administrative requirements when interacting with public officials and government agencies
  • Skill in written, verbal, and interpersonal communication to influence and articulate a variety of topics to different and diverse audiences
  • Skill in drafting and maintaining essential documents such as briefing papers, official correspondence, and reports to support interactions with government bodies
  • Ability to recognize and report on political developments that could influence university operations
  • Ability to handle logistical arrangements for meetings and events, such as scheduling, venue preparation, and technical setup
  • Ability to prepare, organize, and maintain accurate records and compliance documents to meet governmental requirements

Minimum Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree in related field
  • 3 years of relevant experience
  • Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered

Job Level Overview

Operations, Administrative, Service, or Technical Support Level 3 - Senior level role with considerable knowledge and skills. Performs complex tasks and project work. Work is typically not routine and requires troubleshooting and analysis. Mentors or guides less experienced staff.


Additional Details
The Government Relations Specialist supports NTID's federal priorities by assisting with all aspects of government affairs. This role includes building and maintaining relationships with Congress and the U.S. Department of Education; supporting NTID's federal agenda, budget development, and appropriations process; ensuring compliance with federal regulations and reporting requirements; and leading the preparation of NTID's comprehensive Annual Report (approximately 200 pages).

Knowledge of American Sign Language or willingness to learn.

FLSA Category

Non-Exempt

Work Location

Hybrid

Compensation

$21.60 - $34.60

Application Materials

When you are ready to complete an application for this position please be prepared to submit the below requested information. This will be required to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.

Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.

Additional Details

In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above. Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources. RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities. RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.

If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at 585-475-2424 or email your request tohr@rit.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.


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About Rochester Institute of Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a preeminent institution in the education services industry, located in Rochester, NY, US. Renowned globally for its innovative and industry-aligned education, RIT was established in 1829 and has since then been committed to offering academic rigor in fields of study with an emphasis on applied learning. This is evidenced by their broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, and fine arts. RIT's mission centers on providing technology-based educational programs for career-minded students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1829

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