Governmental Relations Specialist

Salary Range: $57,252.00 - $65,832.00

Posting closes on 6/2/2026

This position is responsible for acting as liaison with elected officials from local levels of government including, but not limited to, City and County. Specifically, this would include working with, but not limited to, City Mayors, City Managers, City Council Members, County Judges, and Quorum Court Members, to facilitate communication and coordination of the Department’s efforts to support local priorities and operational needs.

Examples of Work

The following examples are intended only as illustrations of various types of work performed. No attempt is made to be exhaustive. Related, similar, or other logical duties are performed as assigned. The Department may require employees to perform functions beyond those contained in job descriptions. The Department may modify job descriptions based on Department needs. The Arkansas Department of Transportation is an "at will" employer.

Represent the Department at governmental meetings, civic organizations, economic development groups and various other organizations that work with county and municipal governments.
Develop, maintain and enhance relationships with elected officials.
Monitor issues, opinions and concerns of elected officials as they relate to transportation policy, funding, legislation and regional mobility impacts and provide timely analysis to inform planning and decision-making.
Act as an intermediary to address and resolve matters brought to the Department by members of county and municipal governments.
Facilitate timely regular communication between the Department and local partners to ensure awareness of policies, initiatives, and operational impacts.
Support and assist in the development of guidance documents and implementation strategies for county and municipal governments.
Analyze and communicate about transportation policy and financing issues, including news and information from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
Prepare reports, briefing materials, and correspondence related to outreach, meetings, and stakeholder engagement.

Minimum Requirements

Education and experience: The educational equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in political science, communications, public policy or related field OR the educational equivalent to a diploma from an accredited high school plus four years of experience in community relations, constituent services or related field. Experience with public policy, legislative affairs, county government or municipal government preferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Ability to interpret and apply Arkansas Code, pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations and court decisions relating to transportation and Department operations and interpret complex policy or regulatory information into clear guidance. Ability to effectively prepare and present written and oral reports, recommendations, policies and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Strong organizational skills with the ability to organize, prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment. Well-developed sense of urgency and follow-through. Ability to facilitate and maintain collaborative relationships with stakeholders. Self-motivated with the ability to work independently. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

Working conditions

Frequent in-state travel with some overnight travel as needed.

Licenses, registrations and certifications

Valid driver’s license.

("Accredited" means the educational institution or program is accredited by an accrediting organization recognized either by the United States Department of Education or by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.)

A criminal background check will be required to determine suitability of employment, and failure to meet these standards may cause the applicant to be rejected or terminated from that position.

This position does not require theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge or a bachelor’s degree or higher in the field; thus, this position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.