Lobbyist
Lobbyist Job Description
The average American does not even know what a lobbyist does for a living. They are a political activist that influence members of congress to push a piece of legislation that would benefit a business organization they represent. Most Americans believe that all lobbyists are paid, this is not true at all. There are two types of lobbyists volunteer and paid. Lobbyists are the individuals that petition the government or congress on a political issue. All lobbyists are protected under the 1st amendment.
Lobbyists also make proposals regarding legislation and regulation. They are allowed in congressional hearings and lobbyists are allowed to speak to corporate and political officials too. On many occasions lobbyist are used to shape public opinion by ad campaigns in the media.
Lobbyists represent churches, charities, unions, universities, colleges, corporations, seniors, environmental groups, foreign, local and state governments. Oil & Gas companies, pharmaceuticals and insurance companies spent the most money on lobbying.
Lobbyist Salary Statistics as of 2015
Average annual salary for a Lobbyist is $66639 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest salary recorded was $116968. The lowest salary reported was $34977. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Median hourly wage for a Lobbyist is $33.14 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest hourly rate recorded was $58.16. The lowest hourly rate recorded was $17.39. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Bonuses for a Lobbyist are based on the years of experience using statistics from the U.S. as of 2015. The average bonus recorded was $0 from people with 15+ years of experience. The average bonus recorded was $1011 from people with under 1 year of experience.
These are the highest paying states for a Lobbyist. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
California – $50,500 – $82,424
Georgia – n/a
Michigan – n/a
Minnesota – $62,496 – $82,424
New York – n/a
Texas – n/a
These are the highest paying cities for a Lobbyist. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
Washington, District of Columbia –
Austin, Texas –
Sacramento, California –
Raleigh, North Carolina –
Atlanta, Georgia –
Phoenix, Arizona –
Minneapolis, Minnesota –
This chart outlines the average annual salary of a Lobbyist from the past 5 years. In 2015 the average annual salary was $66639 while in 2007 it was just $61799.84
Responsibilities
The job responsibilities of a Lobbyist is having strong communication with members of congressional politicians and other political figures in the government. They must have an expertise in researching and learning pieces of legislation that is proposed. They must know the impact of the legislation and how it will have on their clients. Most lobbyists hold advanced degrees and have direct connection with billion dollar corporations and congress members. Some lobbyist firm requires 5 years or more of experience in a government job. Most lobbyists will work in the field and have knowledge of political protocol. They must be able to meet goals and deadlines. Lobbyist must be able to work well with others and have to ability to work independently too. lobbyists should show creativity and good work ethic.
How To Become a Lobbyist
Anyone can be a lobbyist. Most are politicians and college graduates that started their career in a congressional office in Washington, DC. Lobbyists are outgoing, aggressive and have strong knowledge about the industries they represent. The American League of Lobbyist does have a certification program. Only paid lobbyist that work with the federal government must be registered with the Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House. Lobbyists must file daily reports of their activities. Most of the Lobbyist firms are located on K Street in Washington, DC. Lobbyists cannot give members of congress gifts such as tickets, favors, money, etc.
Many college students will take a summer internship working with lobbyists as an assistant. Interns can track legislation and funding from organizations represented in Washington, DC. Many interns work on various projects for lobbyists. The internship will give college students great insight on how lobbying is done within the federal government. The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars assist college students in getting an internship in the government. This is a perfect opportunity for the college students that are looking to break into a political career or a lobbying position in the Washington, DC area.
Job Outlook
Gender Statistics |
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42%
58%
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Based on our stats gathered across the U.S. 42% of Lobbyists were males while 58% were females. These numbers are based on averages across all states combined. Some individual states may have a much different ratio however.
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