Assistant Director of State Legislation

Join us at the Illinois Farm Bureau to become part of an influential leader that has a rich history and vision toward the future of agriculture.

We’re excited you’re looking for a career with Illinois Farm Bureau as we advocate for farmers and agriculture. We’re a grassroots organization made up of people who support farms, food and families in Illinois.. Apply today to become a vital part of helping us advocate for Illinois agriculture and support Illinois farm families.

About the role

Valued and critical member of the State Legislative Team. Acts in the development and implementation of the state legislative program in the General Assembly. Communicates and implements Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) policy and the annual legislative priorities. Reliably and strategically communicates IFB policy to Legislators and Governor's administration. Provides information to IFB members on state legislative issues and coordinates related programs.

How does this role make an impact?

- Works closely with GAC staff in all phases of the state legislative program. Prepares legislation to implement IFB policy, prepares and presents testimony before General Assembly committees on assigned issues and reviews progress of assigned legislation.
- Fosters positive relationships and communicates with legislators regarding the organization’s positions on various legislative proposals and issues.
- Represents the IFB at meetings with relevant state and federal agencies and interest groups. May also communicate with the media.
- Prepares detailed analysis of legislation, fact sheets, and recommends IFB positions on legislation.
- Performs thorough research and analysis, prepares reports, and provides information and counsel to the IFB Board of Directors, relevant committees and other entities, as requested.
- Plans and executes state legislative educational programs for county farm bureaus, conferences and IFB meetings, as assigned.
- Provides support and assistance in working with affiliated companies and providing information on related legislative matters of interest.

Do you have what we're looking for?

Typically requires 2-3+ years of relevant legislative experience or a combination of related experience, education and training. Agriculture, Agriculture Policy or Ag Communications experience a plus.

- Normal office environment.
- Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
- Regularly required to stand or walk.
- Must have the ability to travel extensively to meet with legislators, Farm Bureau members and leaders, attend relevant events and meetings and fulfill job responsibilities throughout Illinois.

Base Pay Range:

$62,000-$85,250

The base pay range represents the typical range of potential salary offers for candidates hired. Factors used to determine your actual salary include your specific skills, qualifications and experience.

Incentive Pay:

In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for a Short-Term Incentive plan.

Why work with us?

Illinois Farm Bureau planted roots in 1916 and is one of the largest Farm Bureau organizations in the United States. Illinois Farm Bureau is a voice for Illinois farmers, farm families, and anyone involved in food and agriculture. That covers a lot of ground. Illinois Farm Bureau represents members in Springfield, IL and Washington D.C. When you become a part of Illinois Farm Bureau, you become part of something that touches the lives of people every day. You truly make a difference.

You’ll be able to take advantage of our benefits package, which includes insurance benefits (medical, dental, vision, disability, and life), 401(k) with company match, parental leave, paid time off, paid company holidays and time off to volunteer. Please click here to learn more about Illinois Farm Bureau and the many benefits we offer our employees.

Illinois Farm Bureau is committed to providing equal opportunity in all areas of employment, and in providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, disability, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

Come join our team at Illinois Farm Bureau today!

Illinois Farm Bureau does not generally sponsor individuals for employment-based visas for this position.

Careers at Illinois Farm Bureau

Plant your roots with a career at Illinois Farm Bureau! IFB is headquartered in Bloomington, IL, with hybrid positions available at our home office and statewide across our 93 County Farm Bureau offices.

Our Mission: Improve the economic well-being of agriculture and enrich the quality of farm family life.

Since 1916, IFB has remained dedicated to advocating for farmers and agriculture, connecting the farming community with consumers and promoting the values and quality of life we hold dear in Illinois. We’re a grassroots membership organization made up of people who support farms, food and families in Illinois. Our members join because they are looking for advocacy, access to reliable agricultural information and education and our member benefits.

We also invest in the future of agriculture via the IAA Foundation, grow agricultural leaders through developmental programming and events, cultivate environmental stewardship and champion innovation by working with our partner and affiliated organizations, such as COUNTRY Financial; GROWMARK; Prairie Farms Dairy and the state commodity groups.

Our employees — regardless of their connection to agriculture — are instrumental in providing this value to our members by creating and managing programs, services and activities. We support their development through continuous learning and training, tuition assistance and a competitive, full-range package of benefits. Our people are our members’ neighbors, and we work to ensure they share the same opportunities for personal and professional growth and contributing to their communities.