GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS SPECIALIST

Position Number: 22160001
County: Pulaski
ADE

Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning.

Position Information

Job Series: Public Relations

Classification: Government Affairs Specialist – Competitive

Class Code: CPR03C

Pay Grade: SPC05

Salary Range: $85,943 - $127,195

Job Summary

The Government Affairs Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the state agency’s government relations strategy, including advocacy, public policy, and legislative affairs. This position serves as a liaison between the department and state government officials, legislators, and key stakeholders to ensure the department's priorities and interests are communicated effectively. The Government Affairs Specialist monitors legislative developments, evaluates their impact on the department’s operations, and provides strategic advice on policy matters.

Primary Responsibilities

Monitor and analyze state legislation, proposed policies, and regulations that may impact the department or its programs. Represent the department’s interests before state government bodies, legislative committees, and other public entities. Advocate for the department's position on key issues with legislators, policymakers, and other government stakeholders. Advise department leadership on emerging legislative and policy trends that could impact operations and services. Serve as the primary point of contact for state officials, responding to inquiries and facilitating communication between the department and government representatives. Track state legislative activity, including bills, resolutions, and regulatory changes that may affect the department. Develop and implement communication strategies to educate stakeholders, including the public and government officials, about the department’s goals and initiatives. Work with the communications team to craft messages that promote the department’s priorities, especially in relation to legislative actions and policy changes.

Knowledge and Skills

In-depth understanding of the legislative process, government structure, and political dynamics at the state level. Ability to develop and implement effective government relations strategies that promote the department’s goals and interests. Strong ability to analyze and interpret proposed legislation and policies, assessing their potential impact on the department and advising leadership on appropriate actions. Skilled in public speaking and delivering presentations to legislators, stakeholders, and the public, including the ability to explain complex policy issues clearly.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications, or a related field is required.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.