Government Relations Director
Apply NowCompany: Pierce County
Location: Tacoma, WA 98444
Description:
Salary: $130,577.98 - $176,170.26 Annually
Location : Tacoma, WA
Job Type: Regular - Other
Job Number: 25-00236
Department: County Executive
Division: EXE-County Executive
Opening Date: 03/10/2025
Closing Date: 3/23/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
This position is hybrid with travel-associated.
Start dates are flexible and can be negotiated upon hire.
Position Summary
Why It's a Great Opportunity:
Are you a seasoned government relations professional with a proven track record of influencing policy and navigating complex legislative landscapes? Do you possess the strategic vision and leadership skills to build a high-performing government relations team?
We're seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Government Relations Director to spearhead Pierce County's advocacy efforts. This is a new position. You will build and direct a high-impact government relations program. You will use your experience and knowledge of the Legislature and Congress to ensure our voice is heard and our priorities are advanced. You will analyze complex legislation, bills, and budgets at the state and federal levels, providing expert insights and recommendations in collaboration with the Executive, Council Members, Executive staff, and other countywide electeds.
Why It's a Great Department:
The county executive, Ryan N. Mello, is the head of the executive branch of the Pierce County government. The Office of the Executive oversees and administers county government to ensure that it meets the County Charter, state constitution, and other applicable federal, state and local laws.
Executive Mello's Forward Together agenda is all about building communities that are safe, welcoming and connected. Executive Mello's priorities include:
How to be Successful in the Role:
You will use your experience in state and federal government relations to track and analyze a high volume of fast-moving policy and budget actions. Your refined soft skills in communication and relationship building will allow you to develop trusted relationships with elected officials and their staff. Your high emotional intelligence will enable you to understand and respond effectively to the needs of diverse stakeholders. Your strong political acumen will allow you to assess the nuances of the political landscape and navigate complex situations with confidence. Your success will stem from your commitment to public service and a dedication to making a positive impact on your community.
Your Future in this Role:
Your work will directly impact the lives of individuals and communities we serve. Pierce County also offers professional development through the Leadership Certification program, robust online learning, and other training opportunities to ensure your success.
Core Daily Responsibilities:
A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found
Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
Special Requirements/Qualifications:
As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.
Supplemental Information
To be considered for this opportunity please:
This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.
At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career. We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision. Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Pierce County offers a competitive benefits package that offers flexibility and peace of mind. We are proud to offer Employee Resource Groups, a focus on professional development in our , and a County Book Club.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career and that your priority is making sure that you and your family maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of and , , staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Our benefits:
Vacation (Annual Leave)
After approximately six months, employees receive six days of vacation leave.
Since we value your experience, the amount of vacation you can accrue increases the longer you work with us. Vacation accrues on a bi-weekly basis for full-time employees as follows:
Vacation Accruals:
During years 1-3, 12 Days
During years 4-7, 16 Days
During years 8-13, 20 Days
During years 14-18, 23 Days
During years 19, 24 Days
During years 20, 25 Days
During years 21, 26 Days
During years 22, 27 Days
During years 23, 28 Days
During years 24, 29 Days
During years 25 & thereafter, 30 Days
A maximum of 45 days may be carried from one year into the next.
Pro-Rated for Part-Time based on % of 1.0 FTE.
Military Leave:
Pierce County has a proud history of supporting the armed forces and provides members of the armed forces with up to 21 days paid military leave per state fiscal year.
Holidays:
Some full-time employees are entitled to eleven paid holidays as follows:
New Year's Day - January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday - Third Monday in January
President's Day - Third Monday in February
Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
Juneteenth - June 19
Independence Day - July 4
Labor Day - First Monday in September
Veteran's Day - November 11
Thanksgiving Day - Fourth Thursday in November & Friday after
Christmas Day - December 25
Personal Holidays:
Regular full-time and regular part-time employees, and employees occupying limited duration positions, shall also receive two additional paid personal holidays. Paid personal holidays shall only accrue for those employees on County payroll as of January 1 of each year or the first work day following January 1 and must be taken during the calendar year in which it was accrued.
Furlough:
Some Pierce County employees may be designated to receive 10 "furlough" days per year in lieu of holidays. Furlough days are available for use on January 1 and must be scheduled and taken within the calendar year. Employees who leave employment with Pierce County must reimburse the employer for used furlough days based upon the number of remaining holidays.
Sick Leave:
Sick leave accrues on a bi-weekly basis, at the rate of one day per month.
Insurance Benefits:
Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with very affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout Pierce County. Employees are eligible to enroll each year in a flexible spending plan, which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care and dependent care expenses. Employees also have the opportunity to participate in supplemental life and long term disability insurance plans. To view premium rates, summary of benefit coverage, and other information, please visit the website.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation:
Pierce County employees are members of the State of Washington's Department of Retirement System (DRS) and depending on the position or previous DRS enrollment will be able to enroll in one of many programs DRS offers. For additional information, check out the web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Nationwide Deferred Compensation Plan. This is a supplemental retirement savings program that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security:
All Pierce County employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The county and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
Please visit website for more information.
Telework/Remote Options:
Some departments allow for telework or work-from-home options dependent on the body of work. Learn more about our telework policy
**All employees are required to be WA State residents after 30 days of employment.
01
What is your highest level of education?
02
How many years of experience do you have in developing and implementing governmental affairs strategies in state and federal relations?
03
After closely reviewing the job announcement, please describe your experience or attributes that make you top candidate for this role.
04
A requirement for this application is to attach both a cover letter and resume. Did you attach a cover letter and resume in the "Attachments" section of the application?
Required Question
Location : Tacoma, WA
Job Type: Regular - Other
Job Number: 25-00236
Department: County Executive
Division: EXE-County Executive
Opening Date: 03/10/2025
Closing Date: 3/23/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
This position is hybrid with travel-associated.
Start dates are flexible and can be negotiated upon hire.
Position Summary
Why It's a Great Opportunity:
Are you a seasoned government relations professional with a proven track record of influencing policy and navigating complex legislative landscapes? Do you possess the strategic vision and leadership skills to build a high-performing government relations team?
We're seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Government Relations Director to spearhead Pierce County's advocacy efforts. This is a new position. You will build and direct a high-impact government relations program. You will use your experience and knowledge of the Legislature and Congress to ensure our voice is heard and our priorities are advanced. You will analyze complex legislation, bills, and budgets at the state and federal levels, providing expert insights and recommendations in collaboration with the Executive, Council Members, Executive staff, and other countywide electeds.
Why It's a Great Department:
The county executive, Ryan N. Mello, is the head of the executive branch of the Pierce County government. The Office of the Executive oversees and administers county government to ensure that it meets the County Charter, state constitution, and other applicable federal, state and local laws.
Executive Mello's Forward Together agenda is all about building communities that are safe, welcoming and connected. Executive Mello's priorities include:
- Expanding affordable housing and helping individuals transition out of homelessness.
- Reducing crime and ensuring public safety.
- Increasing access to affordable childcare for working families.
- Opening new behavioral health facilities and services to support mental wellness.
- Providing access to parks and safe infrastructure for walking and rolling.
- Attracting good-paying jobs to the South Sound to strengthen the local economy.
How to be Successful in the Role:
You will use your experience in state and federal government relations to track and analyze a high volume of fast-moving policy and budget actions. Your refined soft skills in communication and relationship building will allow you to develop trusted relationships with elected officials and their staff. Your high emotional intelligence will enable you to understand and respond effectively to the needs of diverse stakeholders. Your strong political acumen will allow you to assess the nuances of the political landscape and navigate complex situations with confidence. Your success will stem from your commitment to public service and a dedication to making a positive impact on your community.
Your Future in this Role:
Your work will directly impact the lives of individuals and communities we serve. Pierce County also offers professional development through the Leadership Certification program, robust online learning, and other training opportunities to ensure your success.
Core Daily Responsibilities:
- Serve as point of contact for Councilmembers, legislators, congressional offices, and countywide elected officials on matters of state and federal policy.
- Work in partnership with Councilmembers and Executive staff to provide strategic planning and policy development for the County at the federal, state, and local government level.
- Identify, research, and analyze potential legislation or policy changes that may impact Pierce County government and advise Council and Executive.
- Provide outreach and advocate Pierce County's position to federal, state and local government agencies and staff. This includes testifying at public hearings, preparing written statements, and meeting with elected officials.
- Supervise the Government Relations Specialist.
- Coordinate activities of contracted lobbyists.
A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found
Qualifications
- Additional education or experience which clearly indicates the ability to perform the essential functions of this position may substitute on a year for year basis.
- Bachelor's degree in public or policy administration, or a closely related field.
- Four years of demonstrated experience in developing and implementing governmental affairs strategies. Government affairs experience must include both state and federal relations.
- Please attach a copy of your cover letter and resume. Failure to attach this will be considered incomplete.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Local government relations experience.
Special Requirements/Qualifications:
- Ability to meet travel requirements of the position.
As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.
Supplemental Information
To be considered for this opportunity please:
- Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to: www.piercecountywa.gov/jobs.
- If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and specify the Job Number and Title.
- If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
- Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process, or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.
This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.
At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career. We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision. Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Pierce County offers a competitive benefits package that offers flexibility and peace of mind. We are proud to offer Employee Resource Groups, a focus on professional development in our , and a County Book Club.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career and that your priority is making sure that you and your family maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of and , , staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Our benefits:
Vacation (Annual Leave)
After approximately six months, employees receive six days of vacation leave.
Since we value your experience, the amount of vacation you can accrue increases the longer you work with us. Vacation accrues on a bi-weekly basis for full-time employees as follows:
Vacation Accruals:
During years 1-3, 12 Days
During years 4-7, 16 Days
During years 8-13, 20 Days
During years 14-18, 23 Days
During years 19, 24 Days
During years 20, 25 Days
During years 21, 26 Days
During years 22, 27 Days
During years 23, 28 Days
During years 24, 29 Days
During years 25 & thereafter, 30 Days
A maximum of 45 days may be carried from one year into the next.
Pro-Rated for Part-Time based on % of 1.0 FTE.
Military Leave:
Pierce County has a proud history of supporting the armed forces and provides members of the armed forces with up to 21 days paid military leave per state fiscal year.
Holidays:
Some full-time employees are entitled to eleven paid holidays as follows:
New Year's Day - January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday - Third Monday in January
President's Day - Third Monday in February
Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
Juneteenth - June 19
Independence Day - July 4
Labor Day - First Monday in September
Veteran's Day - November 11
Thanksgiving Day - Fourth Thursday in November & Friday after
Christmas Day - December 25
Personal Holidays:
Regular full-time and regular part-time employees, and employees occupying limited duration positions, shall also receive two additional paid personal holidays. Paid personal holidays shall only accrue for those employees on County payroll as of January 1 of each year or the first work day following January 1 and must be taken during the calendar year in which it was accrued.
Furlough:
Some Pierce County employees may be designated to receive 10 "furlough" days per year in lieu of holidays. Furlough days are available for use on January 1 and must be scheduled and taken within the calendar year. Employees who leave employment with Pierce County must reimburse the employer for used furlough days based upon the number of remaining holidays.
Sick Leave:
Sick leave accrues on a bi-weekly basis, at the rate of one day per month.
Insurance Benefits:
Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with very affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout Pierce County. Employees are eligible to enroll each year in a flexible spending plan, which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care and dependent care expenses. Employees also have the opportunity to participate in supplemental life and long term disability insurance plans. To view premium rates, summary of benefit coverage, and other information, please visit the website.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation:
Pierce County employees are members of the State of Washington's Department of Retirement System (DRS) and depending on the position or previous DRS enrollment will be able to enroll in one of many programs DRS offers. For additional information, check out the web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Nationwide Deferred Compensation Plan. This is a supplemental retirement savings program that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security:
All Pierce County employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The county and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
Please visit website for more information.
Telework/Remote Options:
Some departments allow for telework or work-from-home options dependent on the body of work. Learn more about our telework policy
**All employees are required to be WA State residents after 30 days of employment.
01
What is your highest level of education?
- Less than High School or GED
- High School Diploma or GED
- Some post High School Classes but no degree
- Associates of Arts in public or policy administration, or a closely related field
- Associates of Arts Degree in unrelated field
- Bachelor's Degree in public or policy administration, or a closely related field
- Bachelor's Degree in unrelated field
- Master's Degree in public or policy administration, or a closely related field
- Master's Degree in unrelated field
02
How many years of experience do you have in developing and implementing governmental affairs strategies in state and federal relations?
- None
- Less than 1 Year
- 1-2 years
- 2-5 years
- More than 5 years
03
After closely reviewing the job announcement, please describe your experience or attributes that make you top candidate for this role.
04
A requirement for this application is to attach both a cover letter and resume. Did you attach a cover letter and resume in the "Attachments" section of the application?
- Yes
- No
Required Question