Director of Federal Government Relations

# The University is Open to Candidates in Washington, D.C. or Riverside, California

Another Source’s client, University of California, Riverside, is recruiting a Director of Federal Government Relations to join their team.

The university is open to candidates based either in the Washington, D.C. area or Riverside, California.
This position operates on a hybrid schedule, with an expectation of three onsite days and two remote days per week. Travel expectations will vary based on the selected candidate’s location, with approximately 25% travel for D.C.-based candidates and up to 50% travel for Riverside-based candidates.

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# Here’s a Little About UC Riverside

UC Riverside (UCR) is one of the fastest-growing and most forward-looking campuses in the University of California system. Recognized nationally for advancing social mobility, research innovation, and student success, UCR is helping redefine the role of a modern public research university.

With continued institutional growth, expanding research investment, and a new Chancellor arriving in 2025, UCR is entering a pivotal and highly visible chapter.

The university is increasingly positioned at the center of conversations shaping the future of higher education, healthcare, workforce development, and economic innovation across California and nationally. This role offers the opportunity to help elevate UCR’s voice and influence at the federal level during a time of significant momentum and opportunity.

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# About This Role

This is a rare opportunity for a strategic federal relations leader to step into a highly visible role with established relationships, institutional support, and a clear mandate to help shape UCR’s national presence.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Government & Community Relations, the Director of Federal Government Relations will lead the university’s federal advocacy strategy in close partnership with senior campus leadership, including the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development.

This role serves as a key advisor on federal policy, legislative strategy, and funding opportunities while helping position UCR competitively for federal investment in research, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives.

Beyond policy and advocacy, this role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative, tight-knit team environment where relationship-building, strategic thinking, and cross-campus partnership are highly valued. For a leader passionate about higher education and public impact, this position offers both influence and visibility within one of the nation’s leading public university systems.

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# How You Will Spend Your Time

– **Represent UCR** in Washington, D.C. with federal officials, national associations, and coalition partners to advance the university’s legislative and funding priorities
– **Lead appropriations strategy** including Community Project Funding (CPF), Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS), and agency funding requests
– **Cultivate relationships** with Members of Congress, Congressional staff, federal agencies, and national higher education associations
– **Partner with research leadership** to align federal funding priorities and maximize institutional competitiveness
– **Advise senior leadership** on federal policy, legislation, and emerging political developments
– **Support faculty engagement** in federal initiatives and position UCR for major research awards and infrastructure investments
– **Develop briefing materials** including policy analyses, talking points, and strategic communications
– **Collaborate internally** with Legal, Compliance, Communications, and campus leadership to ensure aligned messaging
– **Contribute to team strategy** while mentoring and supporting colleagues across the organization

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# Qualifications

– **Bachelor’s degree** in a related field and/or equivalent combination of education and experience
– **8+ years of 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 and collaborate** across diverse constituencies
– **Experience advising senior leadership** on legislative, policy, or public affairs matters
– **Ability to travel frequently** for university-related business

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# Preferred Qualifications

– **Advanced degree** in a related field
– **Prior experience** in higher education
– **Experience working with federal elected officials** or within federal government environments
– **Knowledge of issues** impacting higher education, healthcare, and research funding

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# What’s in It for You

The anticipated salary range for this position is **$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 UCR benefits here:
[https://jobs.ucr.edu/pages/benefits]

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# 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 maintaining a community dedicated to academic excellence, free of discrimination and harassment, where all individuals can work and learn together.

Another Source works with their clients on a retained project basis. We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. As you review the qualifications, please do not self-select out if you do not meet every requirement. No one is 100% qualified — we encourage you to apply and share your story.

Apply here