Director of Federal Government Affairs (DC Based)

About the Role:

The Illinois Governor’s Office (ILGO) is seeking a Director of Federal Affairs to join its Washington, D.C.- based Federal Affairs Office. This role is vital in shaping and advancing Illinois’ federal priorities, influencing congressional authorizations and legislation, and helping to secure federal funding opportunities that support the Governor’s agenda. The Director will report directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Federal Affairs and collaborate closely with the Illinois Congressional Delegation (IL CODEL), state agencies, and federal partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a liaison between the Governor’s Office and Congress, particularly the IL Congressional Delegation, to ensure the Governor’s agenda and Illinois priorities are reflected in federal policymaking.
• Monitor and track federal legislative activity and communicate relevant developments to State agencies.
• Keep stakeholders informed of significant legislative and policy developments and facilitating the production of materials to support congressional engagement.
• Lead the State’s input on the federal appropriations process by coordinating timely collection and communication of agency priorities.
• Support coalition-building efforts under the guidance of the Deputy Chief of Staff.
• Respond to ad hoc legislative and policy-related requests as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a Congressional office or a role focused on state or federal legislative affairs; experience with the IL Congressional Delegation is a plus.
• Strong working relationships with federal government staff and decision-makers.
• Solid understanding of the federal legislative process, particularly annual appropriations.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask and make informed, independent decisions.

Benefits:

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Retirement plan

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person