Budget Director

Salary: $96,852.00 - $140,000.00 Annually
Location : Denver, CO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: LAA-00188-08/2026
Department: Department of Law
Division: Administration
Opening Date: 08/07/2026
Closing Date: 8/21/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Determined by Position
Type of Announcement: This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Primary Physical Work Address: 1300 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
FLSA Status: Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Department Contact Information: Tori DeMare: View email address on click.appcast.io
Hiring Pay Rate: Although the full salary range is listed, salary will be set commensurate with qualifications and in compliance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act.
How To Apply: Please submit an online application for this position at Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.


Department Information
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Find a rewarding career making a difference: Join the Office of the Attorney General!
The Office of the Attorney General/Department of Law is seeking a Budget Director to provide strategic leadership and oversight for the Department's $165 million budget across multiple funding sources. This role serves as a key advisor to an elected state official and plays a critical part in shaping financial strategy, anticipating resource needs, and supporting sound public policy through transparent and accurate budget management. We are looking for an experienced public-sector budget professional who excels at strategic thinking, thrives in a complex funding environment, and can actively manage and guide the Department's budget and resources.

WHO WE ARE
The Office of the Attorney General/Department of Law is the "People's Lawyer." The Attorney General, Phil Weiser, was elected by the people of Colorado and is the State's chief lawyer and law enforcement official. Our vision for the Department of Law is: "Together, we serve Colorado and its people, advancing the rule of law, protecting our democracy and promoting justice for all." Our core values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, drive our actions and demonstrate our focus on being principled public servants who are innovative and better together.
Description of Job
The Budgeting Unit provides strategic budgetary planning, guidance, and support to meet Department of Law (DOL) objectives and provides the efficient delivery of services.


WHAT YOU WILL DO
The Budget Director (Budget & Policy Analyst IV) reports to and collaborates with the department's Chief Financial Officer to provide leadership and management of the Department's budget by establishing and executing broad financial policies and strategies for the annual $165M budget and spending plan from a variety of funding sources including general fund, appropriated cash-funds, non-appropriated custodial funds, and federal funds.


The Budget Director is responsible for budgetary and fiscal analysis and providing direction regarding all budget-related activities, such as annual budget creation, fiscal note preparation, and supplemental/budgetary amendment requests. This role ensures accurate, timely submissions to the Joint Budget Committee ("JBC"), Office of the State Auditor ("OSA"), Office of the State Controller ("OSC"), and Office of State Planning & Budget ("OSPB"). Additionally, this position provides budgetary, legislative, and policy guidance to support Departmental objectives and assists leadership in aligning resources with departmental goals.

Job responsibilities include:
Budget Direction and Oversight

• Manage the Department of Law budget and interpret business needs set out by the Strategic Plan
• Determine systems and provide oversight to ensure the DOL can implement Attorney General initiatives
• Actively manage budget expenditures by the sections
• In conjunction with the Chief Financial Officer, this role will:
  • Determine whether to approve or deny requests based on existing budget and spending authority/ revenue
  • Determine impact of expenditures on the Department
• Oversee, coordinate, and finalize the Department's budget request and all written correspondence with Joint Budget Committee staff
• Develop Statewide Common Policy figures for Legal Services to State Agencies (LSSA), coordinating with client Budget Directors (including financial staff for Institutions of Higher Education), DOL attorneys, and JBC staff
• Determine the best strategies to advance Department initiatives through the budget process, accommodating for differing sister agency input, to best support good public policy for the State and Department
• Monitor and adjust resource allocations to address evolving Department needs, coordinating with program leaders to reallocate funds as required to meet both strategic goals and unexpected demands within established budgetary limits
• Forecast budget availability to advise and direct internal business decisions on resource implementation consistent with Department strategic initiatives and priorities
• Determine whether expenditures are in compliance with legislative intent against appropriated/allocated budgets
• Ensure compliance with appropriation headnotes, footnotes, and expenditure limits in alignment with legislative intent and state fiscal rules
• Collaborate with program staff to set and adjust fees for cash-funded programs, ensuring sufficient revenue to support programmatic operations
• Monitor cash fund balances and grant expenditures to ensure compliance with statutory reserve requirements, spending authority limits, and grant deliverables

Fiscal Note Analysis

• Coordinate and facilitate the analysis and preparation of fiscal notes for all legislation potentially impacting the DOL
• Draft synopsis of bills, analyze work to be performed, and resources needed within the Department to perform the work and what type of legal attorney work is needed (rulemaking/ litigation/ GC)
• Perform financial analysis to estimate fiscal impact of bills or other proposed measures, demonstrating the assumptions and calculations (potential litigation, rulemaking, etc.) to generate resources needed for implementation

This recruitment may be used to fill other Budget & Policy Analyst IV positions within the Administration section at the Department of Law.

Salary note: Although a salary range is listed, salary will be set commensurate with the successful candidate's qualifications and in compliance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Salary will be paid on a biweekly basis.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Residency Requirement: This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. Class Code & Classification Description:
H8E4XX

Budget & Policy Analyst IV

Minimum Qualifications and Substitutions: Please document all relevant experience in detail on your application. Experience will not be inferred or assumed. Any part-time experience listed will be prorated.


Experience Only:

• Eight (8) years of professional experience in budget analysis, development, and implementation. Experience must include public sector budget experience.

OR

Education and Experience:

• A combination of related education and/or relevant professional experience in budget analysis, development, and implementation equal to eight (8) years. Experience must include public sector budget experience.
  • Please note, relevant education may substitute for four (4) years; qualified candidates must demonstrate at least four (4) years of related experience.
• Current, valid licensure as a CPA by the Colorado Board of Accountancy will substitute for up to four (4) years of the degree requirement and two (2) years of the required experience.

If you are qualifying under the Education and Experience option listed above, you must submit a copy of your transcripts at the time of application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

Note: Candidates possessing a foreign degree must submit a translation (evaluation) of their degree from an accredited institution, such as The National Association of Credential Evaluations Services in order to be given credit for the degree.
Preferred Qualifications: In addition to the minimum qualifications, if you possess any of the following specifically include the details on your application, as this information will be used to assess your qualifications and may be used to determine a top group of applicants.

• Knowledge of Colorado state or public sector fiscal processes, including experience with the Colorado Operations Resource Engine (CORE) system
• Knowledge of the Colorado legislative process, including the development of fiscal notes
• Experience creating, managing and executing budgets as the primary role of the job for an organization with multiple funding streams
• Knowledge and ability to write financial reports and make formal presentations of financial data to internal and external parties
• Ability to use job-specific software including databases, spreadsheets, word processing, and analytical tools
• Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders
• Experience managing agency-wide administration related programs
• Experience delivering financial services-related support in a public sector environment, including applying agency policies, procedures, and service standards.

Required Competencies:

• Financial management; understanding of financial processes, economic analysis, and internal controls; ability to monitor expenditures and uses cost-benefit thinking to set priorities; understanding of the principles and concepts of public finance
• Strong critical thinking/problem solving skills, including the ability to analyze budget and fiscal data, make recommendations, and take action based on the analysis
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external customers to develop solutions that meet the needs of customers while abiding by fiscal constraints, regulations, policies and rules
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Conditions of Employment:

• Applicants must pass a thorough background investigation prior to appointment.
• Colorado Department of Law participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
• This position offers flexible work arrangements. New employees are expected to work in-office 3 days a week. Additional flexibility will be considered for employees after a successful onboarding and training period. Please note, flexible work arrangements may change at any time based on business needs.

Supplemental Information

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must establish an account with governmentjobs.com and complete the online application.

Required Application Materials: Applicant may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

1. A completed State of Colorado Application: Applicants are responsible for ensuring that the application provided is fully completed and clearly describes their education, training and experience as it relates to this position. Applications left blank or marked "See Resume" will not be considered.
2. Current Resume: A detailed resume outlining your background skills and experiences including previously held positions and academic background, is required at the time of application. This document will be used to assess candidates during the comparative analysis process.
3. Cover Letter: A detailed cover letter explaining your interest in the position, any information regarding your skills, qualifications, accomplishments, etc. and how you meet the listed preferred qualifications is due at the time of application. This document will be used to assess candidates during the comparative analysis process.

Veteran's Preference: In order to be considered for veteran's preference you must attach a copy of your DD214 forms as well as any documentation required to prove disability or marital status.


Your application will be reviewed by a qualified Human Resources Specialist to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for this position. If your application does not demonstrate that you meet the minimum requirements, you will be notified that you will not proceed in the selection process for this position. If your application is rejected and you have questions, you may contact Tori DeMare at


The Office of the Attorney General offers challenging, interesting, and meaningful work. We are an equal opportunity employer and believe that a diverse workforce adds quality and perspective to the services we provide to the public. Candidates with diverse qualities and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Assessment Information :
Colorado Revised Statutes require that all state employees be hired and promoted through comparative analysis of merit and fitness. Upon meeting the minimum qualifications, the next phase of the process is typically a structured application/resume review by a panel of subject matter experts against the job duties and/or preferred qualifications in this job announcement to determine technical competence, depth and breadth of experience and potential job fit.

• Technical Competence - Technical experience as it relates to the duties outlined in this job announcement.
• Depth and Breadth of Experience - Experience that covers multiple areas outlined in this job announcement and demonstrates the level of responsibility assigned.
• Job Fit - Experience will be evaluated to determine how well experience aligns with and meets the business needs of this position. Current experience is preferred.

It is imperative that the "Work Experience" section of your application is complete and specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work product, and accomplishments as they relate to the Description of the Job, Minimum Qualifications, and Preferred Qualifications as listed above. Failure to include adequate information or follow instructions by the closing date may result in your application not being accepted and/or may affect your inclusion in the final pool of eligible applicants as the materials may be used to identify a top group for additional assessment or establish an eligible list for referral to the hiring manager for final consideration.

Appeal Rights:
An applicant who has been removed from an employment list or removed from consideration during the selection process may request a review by the State Personnel Director. As an applicant directly affected by the results of the selection or comparative analysis process, you may file a written appeal with the State Personnel Director.

Review of the completed, signed, and submitted appeal will be timely on the basis of written material submitted by you, using the official appeal form signed by you or your representative. This form must be completed and delivered to the State Personnel Board by email at within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgment of the Department's action.

For further information on the Board Rules, you can refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at


WHY WORK FOR US

We Embrace Flexibility
We aim to produce outstanding work product for all of our customers


We Are Committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At the DOL, our commitment to DEI is thriving. We know that we are better together when our differences are valued and everyone is inspired and empowered to contribute. As such, we strive to provide a safe environment where individuals feel valued and respected for who they are; demonstrate a behavior and mindset where differences are welcomed, and individuals are treated equally and empowered to do their best work; and promote growth and innovation through a diverse workforce. We empower an active Diversity Equity & Inclusion Impact Team that creates approaches to ensure safe spaces and a culture supportive of people being their authentic selves, hosts events and programs on DEI areas important to our employees, enables development and sustainability of resource groups that give a voice to historically marginalized populations, focuses on retaining our incredible talent, and more! If your professional goals include promoting growth and innovation with colleagues who recognize that we are better together when our differences are valued and respected, then DOL is your place to be!


We Have Strong Core Values
Our core values drive our actions. At the Department of Law, we are: 1) principled, maintaining the highest ethical standards, rigorous legal analysis, and careful evaluation of facts; 2) public servants, who are always ensuring our work is not about us, but instead is about the people of Colorado; 3) innovative, by seeking to identify the best approach, make deliberate decisions, and look to improve; and 4) "better together," by working to support each other and collaborate.


We are Committed to Developing our Employees
We are deeply invested in our talent and regularly provide meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth through training and coaching. Further, our professional development and performance goal setting process is collaborative and ongoing, and aimed at helping our employees grow and succeed.


We Offer Excellent Benefits
In addition to the comprehensive including competitive medical, dental, and vision health plans, employer-paid life insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans with , and vacation and sick leave earned each month, there are many other unique benefits that we offer, including:

• : As a state government employee, you might be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. A borrower may qualify for forgiveness by making 120 on-time payments while employed full-time in public service, if they have certain kinds of federal loans in a qualifying repayment plan
• Free access to an on-site fitness center
• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible work schedules, professional development opportunities, and an employee discount program
• Employer-paid mental health and counseling services through Colorado State Employee Assistance Program
• Employer-paid annual attorney registration dues
• Employer-provided access to professional development training and CLE through PLI, Department of Law University and other entities.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.


The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

ADAAA Requests
The Department of Law is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, Julie Christopher at View email address on click.appcast.io.
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information:


Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
01


Applicants for State of Colorado classified positions must be current residents of Colorado. Are you a current resident of the State of Colorado who can provide proof of Colorado residency?

• Yes
• No

02


A resume and cover letter are required along with the completed employment application. These documents can be submitted using the "Attach" feature and will be used to assess candidates during the comparative analysis process. Applicant may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.By selecting "Yes," you acknowledge that you have read and understand this information.

• Yes
• No

03


NOTE: Experience cited in your supplemental question responses must also be included in your job application. Your responses will be used to assess your qualifications.Please describe your experience with the Colorado state budget process, including any work preparing budget requests, submitting responses to requests for information from the legislature, and experience analyzing the fiscal impact of legislation. Note: Statements such as "See résumé" will not be accepted in lieu of a response. If no experience in this area, please enter "N/A".
04


Please describe a specific instance where you analyzed budget or fiscal data to address a challenge or resolve an issue. Include in your response the steps you took to evaluate the data, the recommendations you made based on your analysis, and the actions you implemented. Highlight how your attention to detail and critical thinking contributed to the outcome. If no experience in this area, please enter "N/A".
05


Please describe your experience in budget management for a state program or division including oversight of cash funds, developing budget projections, and managing expenditures. If no experience in this area, please enter "N/A".
06


Please describe your proficiency in the use of the State's electronic accounting system (Colorado Operations Resource Engine or "CORE"), the State's electronic budgeting system (Performance Budgeting or "PB"), or other similar databases or IT systems used for research and analysis. If no experience in this area, please enter "N/A".
Required Question