Specialist, Government Affairs II

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9 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $67,591.00 To $ Annually

* Depending On Qualifications, with annual performance-based merit increase program

First Review of Applications: October 12, 2026 (open until filled)

SEMCOG (EOE) is seeking an outgoing and experienced Government Affairs Specialist (Level II or III). Reporting to the Manager, Government Affairs and Strategic Coordination, the Government Affairs Specialist works with SEMCOG members, staff, and regional partners to identify emerging fiscal and operational trends facing local governments and integrate into our broader work. The Government Affairs Specialist also acts as the lead staff to SEMCOG’s Local Operations and Finance Implementation Team, including meeting/event planning, developing relevant content, and using discussions among the implementation team to drive SEMCOG’s research and resources.

This position is also responsible for assisting and supporting the development of non-partisan or bipartisan policy consensus on timely and sensitive legislative and regulatory topics, as well as decisions regarding implementation of those policies.

The successful candidate will understand local government operations, finance and budgeting, and current laws on a wide range of issues impacting local governments; well-developed organization and time management skills; be detailed, self-motivated, and capable of working on multiple tasks; excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills to interact with a range of external stakeholders and facilitate discussions to build understanding and consensus.

Attends virtual and in-person meetings with members and partners regarding fiscal and operational issues, and legislative and regulatory policy. Delivers presentations and engages in public speaking on behalf of SEMCOG’s Government Affairs department. Responds to questions and comments from SEMCOG members and the media.

Candidates should demonstrate a strong work ethic and comfort in working both independently and within teams. This will include a focus on inclusivity to ensure meeting the vision, All people in Southeast Michigan benefit from a connected, thriving region of small towns, dynamic urban centers, active waterfronts, diverse neighborhoods, premier educational institutions, and abundant agricultural, recreational and natural areas. Employment offers of II or III will be commensurate with applicant qualifications.

This position offers employee development and promotional opportunities.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public or Business Administration, Communications, Political Science, or related field.
• At least three (3) to five (5) years of experience in local government administration, operations or finance; legislative, regulatory, or policy analysis;intergovernmental relations; public affairs; or related/applicable experience.
• Ability to identify key policies, proposed changes to legislation, and compile large groups of data to show simple results.
• Effective written, verbal, public speaking, and presentation skills required, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Support and promote a strong internal culture based on SEMCOG core values.

SEMCOG reserves the right to waive any of the minimum qualifications for applicants whose general or specific qualifications would otherwise qualify the applicant for the position or lead SEMCOG to believe that the applicant is capable of performing the assigned duties and fulfilling…