Director of Government Relations

LIUNA Michigan Director of Government Relations

Type: Full-Time

Location: Lansing | MI | 48917 | USA

Job Title: Director of Government Relations

Salary Range: $100,000+ based upon experience

Benefits: The position includes excellent benefits: healthcare (medical, vision, and dental), defined benefit pensions, annuity, vehicle, and phone provided, paid time off.

Start Date: 4/1/26

LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America– represents 15,000 workers who are proud to build Michigan. We are united through collective bargaining agreements to get better pay, more work, and greater opportunities for our unionized workforce.

Our members are a skilled and experienced union workforce trained to work safely in the construction and energy industries. Members build infrastructure - from roads, bridges, and transit to schools and skyscrapers. They are certified to install rainwater catchment systems and trained to build water and sewer systems. Members also work in every area of the energy sector, helping to build solar plants, wind farms, and natural gas and oil pipelines, as well as being skilled in the maintenance of nuclear and coal power plant facilities.

The Michigan Laborers District Council is the statewide entity that oversees our seven Local Unions.

The Director of Government Affairs is responsible for policy research, political campaign planning, and governmental advocacy on behalf of and at the direction of the Michigan Laborers District Council.

This position reports directly to the Business Manager of the Michigan Laborers District Council and works closely with other senior staff.

• As a registered lobbyist, advocating on behalf of the Michigan Laborers District Council for infrastructure investments, worker’s rights, and pro-labor causes.
• Work in close partnership with the Local Unions in Michigan to develop innovative and impactful strategies and campaigns.
• Act as liaison with other labor unions when required.
• Plan and execute statewide political campaign strategies.
• Work in close partnership with the Local Unions in Michigan to develop innovative and impactful strategies and campaigns.
• Organizing events for lawmakers, attending fundraisers, and setting a consistent calendar of one-on-one meetings.
• Keeping up to date on industry news and large infrastructure projects.
• Researching and developing policy solutions and clearly communicating them internally to leadership, staff, and volunteers; and externally.
• Work with people of diverse backgrounds from every part of Michigan.
• The ability to work autonomously while following specific guidance from the Business Manager.
• Follow the code of ethics as written in the employee handbook.

• Genuine commitment to the values and goals of the labor movementis required.
• Thorough knowledge of the Federal and State Legislative process.
• Bachelor’s degree in Labor Studies, Political Science, or a related field is preferred but not required in all cases.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in labor or community organizing or five years of legislative or electoral campaign experience, including at least three years in a management or leadership position.
• Strong time management and organizational skills are required, including a demonstrated ability to independently manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects in high-pressure situations and under difficult deadlines.
• Excellent writing, public speaking, communication, and presentation skills required.
• In-depth knowledge of campaign finance rules
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, work well under pressure and deadlines, and manage multiple priorities and projects effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to build sound relationships with staff at all levels and to provide strategic advice and directionwhen required by the Business Manager.
• General understanding of labor and the construction industry.

Office located in Lansing. Work may be required in many locations across the state. Extended hours based on the legislative calendar may be required.

Extensive travel is required.

LIUNA and the Michigan Laborers District Councilare committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Please email your resume and cover letter to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).