Director Legislative Affairs

City of Chattanooga • Chattanooga, TN

1d • $95,376 - $115,225 • Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Legislative Affairs serves as a senior advisor and operational lead for the Chattanooga City Council’s legislative functions. This position is responsible for policy research and development, legislative process coordination, and stakeholder engagement — ensuring the Council operates with clarity, efficiency, and accountability. The Director works closely with Council members, city departments, and the public to advance legislative priorities and deliver responsive, ethical public service to Chattanooga residents.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Law, Urban Planning, related experience, or any combination of equivalent experience and education.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in policy research, government affairs, legislative processes, or community relations.
• Experience working in municipal government or with elected officials is highly desirable.
• Valid Driver's License required.
• Strong understanding of local governance, policy development, and legislative procedures.
• Maintain the confidentiality of all sensitive information.
• Exercise professionalism, discretion, courtesy, and accuracy.
• Excellent research, analytical, strategic planning, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to engage diverse communities and foster strong constituent relationships, including elected officials.
• High level of organization, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace.
• Commitment to ethical public service and a passion for improving Chattanooga’s communities.

Nice To Haves

• Tennessee Engineering License preferred, but not required.
• Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or ability to obtain within twelve (12) months preferred.

Responsibilities

• Research, analyze, and draft policy proposals, ordinances, and resolutions in alignment with the Council’s priorities.
• Monitor local, state, and federal legislative actions and assess their impact on Chattanooga.
• Provide policy briefings, reports, and recommendations to City Council members.
• Collaborate and engage with community stakeholders, city departments, and policy experts to develop informed legislative strategies.
• Assist and help maintain clear communication channels between the Council office, the administration and its leadership, and the public around legislative matters.
• Support the development and implementation of council legislative processes, including committee coordination and legislative tracking.
• Support members in addressing community affairs.
• Assist with council-related constituent services.
• Accompany and represent city council members to attend meetings as needed for legislative and community matters.
• Prepare policy-related reports, briefing materials, press releases, social media updates, and informational materials for policy initiatives and Council community affairs activities.
• Ensure compliance with city policies, ethics guidelines, and open government regulations.
• Work with city departments and agencies on behalf of City Council members to facilitate collaboration, gather relevant information, and ensure policy implementation aligns with Council directives.
• Perform duties as assigned
• Must meet regular attendance requirements.
• Must be able to maintain good interpersonal relationships with staff, coworkers, managers and citizens.
• Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: Robust pay scales that reflect our commitment to our staff.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling where possible.
• Exceptional Wellness: Comprehensive health benefits and wellness programs designed for you and your family that deliver savings to you beyond your paycheck, featuring a centralized health clinic and pharmacy for all City employees.
• Growth: A focus on professional development and upward mobility within the organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director