Legislative Director

The National Association of Counties (NACo) announces an opening for a Legislative Director. We are seeking a highly motivated political and public policy professional to manage its work with the Western Interstate Region and direct its Public Lands policy advocacy portfolio. The Western Interstate Region is affiliated with the National Association of Counties and is dedicated to the promotion of Western interests within NACo. These interests include public land issues (use and conservation), community stability and economic development and the promotion of the traditional Western way of life. Its membership consists of fifteen Western states.

Position Responsibilities and Activities:

• Develops and implements legislative and advocacy strategies on issues falling within the relevant sections of the American County Platform;
• Plan, prepare and conduct associated follow-up for meetings and seminars held in conjunction with NACo conferences and other monthly meetings
• Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the legislative process—including the federal budget and appropriations;
• Represents to the Legislative and Executive branches NACo policy positions on legislation and regulations affecting counties and monitors and analyzes such legislation and regulations;
• Relate relevant legislative information to county officials, writes testimony for presentation at committee hearings, attends mark-ups and works as a liaison with public interest groups to coordinate advocacy efforts and build support for NACo advocacy priorities;
• Presents issues the NACo membership and meetings of state associations of counties
• Regularly prepares written communications, including County News articles and blog posts and email communications with the congressional offices and county elected officials
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree plus four years’ progressively responsible experience in a legislative or advocacy-related position, or a master’s degree plus two years’ progressively experience, or seven years of related experience;
• Ability to promote NACo’s policy positions by developing and maintaining effective relationships with federal government officials, Members of Congress and their staff and other executives and advocates working for public interest organizations
• Experience working on Capitol Hill in a Member or Committee office strongly preferred;
• Thorough knowledge of issues affecting America’s western counties
• Thorough knowledge of intergovernmental relations and functions of government at all levels;
• Detailed knowledge of county structure and government;
• A team player that is self-motivated, creative, and innovative;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Strong advocacy skills and good political judgment;
• Sensitivity and tact in dealing with others;
• Ability to work week in a political environment while maintaining non-partisan perspective

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid Work Flexibility
• 20-30 % Travel requirement

Application Procedures:

NACo is committed to providing excellent customer service and creating quality experiences for our stakeholders. If you are creative, energetic and passionate, please send a cover letter, resume and salary expectations to resumes@naco.org.

Why Work a NACo:

Our vision is healthy, safe, and vibrant counties across America. Counties play an integral part of the intergovernmental responsibilities among federal, state, local and tribal government officials. We are guided by the belief that stronger counties result in a stronger America.

NACo is committed to fostering a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our jobs are open to all applications regardless of race, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

Teammates of NACo enjoy a fun and challenging environment with a wide range of competitive benefits, including comprehensive medical, vision and dental insurance; generous paid leave and federal holidays; transportation subsidy; tuition assistance; 401(k) match, pension plans, group life insurance, voluntary payroll deductions for pet insurance and credit union membership, and short/long term disability coverage including applicable parental leave.

We are passionate about advancing excellence in public service to help people and places thrive across America. We embrace and respect our diversity of experience, heritage, and thought and strive to cultivate an equitable workplace. As outlined in our Values and NACo Norms below, we pursue our mission through a ONE NACo mindset of genuine care, empathy, and respect for each other, our partners, and our members.

Join us as we advance excellence in public service to help our local counties and communities thrive.