Director OF TAX, Immigration AND Innovation; Lobbyist

DIRECTOR OF TAX, IMMIGRATION AND INNOVATION

Join to apply for the position at the University of California Office of the President. This role is a hybrid position located in Washington, DC.

The University of California's Office of Federal Governmental Relations (UC FGR) is located at the UC Washington Center in Washington, DC. It engages with federal agencies, Congress, and national organizations to advocate for the university's priorities.

Under the direction of the Associate Vice President for Federal Governmental Relations, the Director leads lobbying, subject matter expertise, analysis, and political strategy related to tax, immigration, labor, economic development, intellectual property, technology transfer and commercialization, capital assets and infrastructure, contractor management, and other issue areas identified by the UC system. The Director coordinates across campuses, health centers, national laboratories, and the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources to advance federal relations goals.

• 50% Advocacy – Serve as one of UC’s primary federal lobbyists; engage with Congress, agencies, and stakeholders; provide updates, guide policy positions, and develop legislative strategies.
• 40% Outreach and Engagement – Act as the university’s liaison with federal partners; track regulations; draft comment letters; coordinate briefings and meetings.
• 5% State Governmental Relations Coordination – Work with the UC Office of State Governmental Relations to maintain awareness of California policy initiatives that intersect with the portfolio.
• 5% Communications – Develop communications tools (talking points, fact sheets) to advance advocacy goals.

• At least 10 years of increasing experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy, or equivalent.
• Advanced understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes and experience working with federal agencies or congressional offices.
• Proven ability to design, develop, and implement short- and long-term strategic plans and programming.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritize multiple assignments.
• Sound political judgment and ability to resolve issues to protect institutional priorities.

• Familiarity with public higher education issues.
• Familiarity with the University of California system and the Office of the President.
• Advanced project management skills.
• Professional degree, law degree, or graduate degree in government or public policy is highly desirable.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

Grade 28. Pay Scale: $185,000–$204,700, commensurate with experience.

• Job Title:
  
  Federal Government Relations Profl 5
• Job Code: 000269
• Salary Grade: 28
• Payscale: $185,000 – $204,700

December 3, 2025

• Background check required for this critical position.
• Smoke‑free work environment as of January 1, 2014.
• Vaccination policy compliance.
• Disclosures required for recent misconduct or investigations.

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, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.