Reports To: Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs 

Location: Austin metropolitan area (with statewide travel)

Overview

The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) is seeking a Local Government Affairs Manager to support its legislative and regulatory team. This position focuses on municipal and regional issues affecting the nursery and landscape industry across Texas. Working under the Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, the Local Government Affairs Manager will monitor, engage with, and influence local policy decisions and help TNLA members navigate local regulatory landscapes.

This is a great opportunity for someone starting their career in advocacy who is passionate about public policy, community engagement, and the green industry

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor local government activity across Texas—including city councils, county commissions, and local regulatory bodies—for issues impacting TNLA members.
• Engage with local officials and staff to advocate for TNLA's policy priorities and industry interests.
• Track and analyze local ordinances, landscape codes, and regulatory trends.
• Assist TNLA members with navigating local compliance and advocacy challenges.
• Support the Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs with state-level policy tracking and coordination when needed.
• Coordinate with TNLA regional leadership to identify local issues and develop grassroots advocacy responses.
• Attend regional association meetings and speak on legislative/regulatory topics when appropriate.
• Help develop local policy summaries, alerts, and newsletter content in coordination with TNLA’s communications team.
• Maintain relationships with municipal staff, planners, regulatory personnel, and regional coalitions relevant to the green industry.
• Participate in TNLA events, including Lone Star Hort Forum, Expo, and industry tours.
• Other items as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public affairs, political science, urban planning, or a related field—or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in working in government, government relations, public policy, or local advocacy
• Strong understanding of local government structure and processes in Texas.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Comfortable with travel across Texas (including overnight).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and/or bill-tracking.
• Ability to work independently while coordinating closely with a team.

Personal Characteristics

• Politically savvy and nonpartisan
• Solution-oriented and proactive
• Respectful of diverse viewpoints
• Passionate about advocacy and helping small businesses thrive
• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines

To Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter to Curtis@tnlaonline.org with subject as “Local Government Affairs Manager”