LOC Job Opening
Lobbyist
Department: Intergovernmental Relations Department
Location: Salem, Oregon
Salary: $105,522 to $146,594.00 annually, with an anticipated new hire range of $105,522 to $130,247.
Deadline Date: 04/17/2026
Posted Date: 02/24/2026
The League of Oregon Cities (LOC) is the trusted, go-to resource representing all 241 incorporated cities in Oregon. We support Oregon’s cities by connecting city leaders and state legislators, advocating for cities’ needs, sharing vital information, and helping to build vibrant, resilient communities that Oregonians are proud to call home.
The LOC Intergovernmental Relations Department ensures cities speak with one voice in Salem and Washington DC. The department is made up of five lobbyists (and the LOC Legislative Director) who support mission-critical policy portfolios for cities. Lobbyists advocate for cities with elected officials and act as policy advisors for the LOC and cities across the state.
The LOC currently has TWO OPEN Lobbyist positions. The Lobbyists are fully trained on all the job duties listed below and regularly performs or assists with these job duties as directed by the Legislative Director. The open positions cover the portfolios below:
- Tax, Finance, & Economic Development Portfolio: The lobbyist covering these policy issues works on matters ranging from property tax, municipal budgeting and audit requirements, tax credit programs, economic incentives, and more. This role also supports revenue reform conversations as guided by the LOC Board of Directors, which includes a public education effort.
- General Government & Public Safety Portfolio: The lobbyist covering these policy issues works on matters ranging from law enforcement, emergency management, employee/labor relations, public meetings and ethics, public records, PERS, and more. This role supports policy needs related to key operational functions for cities, as a public body, an employer, and in cities’ charge of maintaining public safety.
Any person meeting the minimum qualifications is strongly encouraged to apply, especially those persons with the desired traits below:
- A skilled legislative strategist with political acumen that is eager to go above and beyond for member cities;
- Knowledge of relevant policies and municipal best practices related to the policy portfolio reference above;
- A mission-driven, self-starter committed to supporting thriving cities across the state by defending home rule and advocating for the needs of all cities; and
- Skills in coalition building and/or convening stakeholders with diverse points of view, including member management and consensus strategies.
Essential job duties are below. Additional job duties are included in the job description.
- Represents the LOC before the Oregon Legislature and other branches/levels of government. Advocates for LOC policy positions;
- Builds coalitions with stakeholder partners to effectively lobby LOC policy positions at the state and federal level. Coordinates city official testimony and participation in the state legislative process;
- Collaborates with the Legislative Director and other LOC staff to develop and implement legislative strategies and tactical plans including media and messaging strategies. Participates in planning and coordinating the development and representation of the LOC’s state and federal intergovernmental program;
- Staffs LOC policy committees, plans and implements the work schedule in consultation with the Legislative Director, committee chairs and prepares background materials. Identifies, researches and assists in the development of LOC policy and drafts policy materials for committees;
- Studies and comments on state agency rulemaking and guideline development. Testifies before state agencies and commissions on issues impacting LOC members and policies. Provides fiscal reports of proposed policies;
- Responds to inquiries from city officials dealing with recently enacted legislation and emerging issues that could result in policy change. Serves as a resource on legislative issues to communication staff and, as appropriate, the media;
- Prepares and makes presentations to present LOC’s research findings, provide trainings, and present up-to-date information. Participates in interviews, as assigned;
- Writes memoranda, action alerts, bill summaries, and articles of general interest for bulletins, publications, and on-line media platforms;
- Develops a substantive knowledge and expertise in assigned subject matters of primary importance to the LOC. Stays informed and participates in the development of LOC legislative agendas and positions; and
- Maintains cooperative working relationships with staff, member cities, other organizations, and the public.
Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, business administration, or related field. AND Five years’ experience working as a legislative assistant/policy advisor.
OR - any equivalent combination of education and experience which ensures the ability to perform the essential functions of the position. This role requires a valid driver's license and registration with the Oregon Government Ethics Commission as a registered lobbyist is required within 30 days from hire.
This is full-time, 40 hours per week, non-exempt status position reporting to the Legislative Director. Depending on a person’s qualifications, the salary range is between $105,522 to $146,594.00 annually, with an anticipated new hire range of $105,522 to $130,247.
If you enjoy working for Oregon cities and want to work with a team dedicated to the same, now is your chance to join our team.
To be considered, applicants must submit:
- Cover Letter that touches on the desired traits above;
- Resume;
- LOC’s Veterans Preference Claim form, if applicable; and
- Please indicate if you are interested in one or both of the openings.
To be considered, all required application materials must be submitted via email to aspeier@orcities.org no later than 5 p.m. on April 17, 2026. LOC will review applications and advance the top eight to ten candidates to a first-round interview. The first interview is scheduled for April 30 or May 1, and a second interview is expected May 8.
Email subject: Lobbyist Position
Questions may be addressed to Angela Speier, Chief Operating Officer, at aspeier@orcities.org.
Per Oregon Revised Statutes 408.225-237, the LOC grants a preference in hiring to veterans and disabled veterans as defined by state law. If you are eligible and wish to claim Veterans' preference points, you must include supporting documents along with the LOC’s veterans preference claim form no later than 5 p.m. on April 17, 2026.
