Specialist, Government Affairs

Level II, Starting Salary: $67,591 -- 84,489* Level III, Starting Salary: $81,785 -- 102,231* Depending On Qualifications, with annual performance-based merit increase program First Review of Applications: October 12, 2026 (open until filled) ** Role and Responsibilities* 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. Total Compensation Estimate = $136,037* In addition to annual base salary, SEMCOG offers a valuable mix of health and fringe benefits! Here's an estimate of Total Compensation, including salary and benefits, for the Government Affairs Specialist position. On average, employee benefits account for 42% of Total Compensation. *Assumes midpoint of salary range and family enrollment in medical, dental, and vision insurances. Join us! How to Apply Please visit https://www.semcog.org/about-semcog/careers/ to apply. Contact Human Resources at [email protected] for any assistance. About SEMCOG SEMCOG is a voluntary association of local governments fostering cooperative efforts in order to move the region forward. Since its inception in 1968, SEMCOG has acted as a regional planning partner with local governments in the seven-county Southeast Michigan region, which is made up of Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties. Membership is open to all counties, cities, villages, townships, intermediate school districts, and community colleges. SEMCOG is committed to building a staff team that represents the rich diversity of the Southeast Michigan region. As a result, we place an emphasis on maintain