Overview
Director of Federal Government Relations at the University of California, Riverside (UCR), a high-impact leadership role for a passionate advocate in higher education, research, and public policy.
Work may be based in Washington, D.C. or Riverside, California, with a hybrid schedule of three onsite days and two remote days per week. Anticipated travel is approximately 25% for D.C.-based candidates and up to 50% for Riverside-based candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent UCR in Washington, D.C. with federal officials, national associations, and coalition partners to advance the university’s legislative and funding priorities.
- Lead development and execution of UCR’s federal appropriations strategy, including Community Project Funding (CPF), Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS), and agency funding requests.
- Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with Members of Congress, Congressional staff, federal agencies, and national higher education associations.
- Partner with research leadership, academic units, and health affairs to align federal funding priorities and maximize institutional competitiveness.
- Serve as a principal advisor to senior university leadership on federal policy, legislation, and emerging political developments impacting higher education and research.
- Support faculty engagement in federal initiatives and help position UCR for major federal research awards and infrastructure investments.
- Develop briefing materials, policy analyses, talking points, and strategic communications to support federal engagement efforts.
- Collaborate closely with internal partners—including Legal, Compliance, Communications, and campus leadership—to ensure aligned messaging and effective advocacy.
- Contribute to the overall strategy and success of the Government & Community Relations team while mentoring and supporting colleagues across the organization.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a related field and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 8+ years of related experience in government relations, public affairs, advocacy, higher education, or related environments.
- Strong understanding of the federal legislative and appropriations process.
- Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with federal officials, agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Exceptional communication, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
- Proven political acumen and ability to navigate complex, high‑visibility environments.
- Ability to influence, negotiate, and collaborate effectively across diverse constituencies.
- Experience advising senior leadership on legislative, policy, or public affairs matters.
- Ability to travel frequently for university‑related business.
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced degree in a related field.
- Prior experience in higher education.
- Prior experience working with federal elected officials or within federal government environments.
- Knowledge of issues impacting higher education, healthcare, and research funding.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $143,000 – $167,116. Relocation assistance is available.
UCR offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement programs; generous paid time off; tuition benefits; wellness resources; and professional development opportunities.
Learn more about benefits:
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The University of California is committed to creating and maintaining a community dedicated to the advancement, application, and transmission of knowledge and creative endeavors through academic excellence, where all individuals who participate in university programs and activities can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of discrimination and harassment.
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