What Legislators DoDevelop, introduce, or enact laws and statutes at the local, tribal, state, or federal level. Includes only workers in elected positions.
- Analyze and understand the local and national implications of proposed legislation.
- Appoint nominees to leadership posts, or approve such appointments.
- Confer with colleagues to formulate positions and strategies pertaining to pending issues.
- Debate the merits of proposals and bill amendments during floor sessions, following the appropriate rules of procedure.
- Develop expertise in subject matters related to committee assignments.
Legislators Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings2,200 Annually
Median Earnings
$54,290 in California
$44,810 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Relating with or serving others
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Personal relationships
- Receiving recognition
you are skilled in
- Complex Problem Solving
- Coordination
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Management of Personnel Resources
Go Deeper: Legislators Explained

LegislatorExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
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What Is the Administration & Sales Industry?

Administration & SalesThe primary activities of this group involve managing teams and projects, providing administrative support, and selling products or services.
