Legislatitive Jobs

Employment of legislators will experience little or no change from 2010 to 2020. The number of legislators in current governments rarely changes, and few new governments are likely to form. Most positions are competitive and require candidates to campaign for the job.

Because legislators are elected, many opportunities exist for newcomers to enter the occupation. The level of competition varies by place and size of government.

Positions at the federal and state level, as well as in some large municipalities, are very competitive.

There will be more opportunities for potential legislators in lower paying jobs in small governments. Part-time positions are usually less competitive. Turnover can be high, and many positions have term limits; however, in some positions without term limits, it can difficult to unseat an incumbent (the person who has the job).

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Legislators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/legislators.htm (visited September 24, 2012).