Section Head - Governmental Relations

Posting closes on 6/29/2026

Salary Range: $88,062.00 - $101,270.00

This position is responsible for supervising the Governmental Relations Section while also acting as liaison with Congress, the Arkansas Legislature, and the Governor’s office directing transportation policy and legislative review and analysis, transportation financing analysis and federal highway statistics reporting.

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.

• Supervise Governmental Relations Specialists who represent the Department at governmental meetings, civic organizations, economic development groups and various other organizations that work with county and municipal governments.


• Consult with and advise staff on legislative and transportation financial analysis issues.


• Act as an intermediary to address and resolve matters brought to the Department by Congress, the Arkansas Legislature, or the Governor's office.


• Monitor state/federal legislative activities.


• Analyze transportation policy and legislative initiatives.


• Coordinate with other divisions and agencies on transportation policy or financing issues.


• Coordinate and review American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' actions.


• Perform transportation financing analysis.


• Prepare special program funding applications.


• Train and educate staff regarding legislative processes, transportation financial analysis and federal highway statistics reporting.

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 in legislative review. Experience in financial analysis or management preferred. 

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Knowledge of the Arkansas Code, pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations and court decisions relating to transportation and Department operations. Skill in interpreting applicable federal and state laws and Department policies and procedures. Ability in preparing and presenting effective written and oral reports, recommendations, policies and procedures.

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.)

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.