Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Regulatory Affairs Specialists manage the internal processes that keep organizations compliant with government rules and industry standards. They coordinate audits, handle license renewals, prepare registration materials, and document compliance activities. This work takes place in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, finance, and other regulated industries.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against regulatory affairs specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing regulatory requirements, preparing documentation for agency submissions, scheduling and coordinating internal audits or inspections, and tracking license renewal deadlines. Specialists maintain compliance records, communicate with regulatory agencies, and work with department heads to ensure procedures meet standards. They may spend time organizing audit materials, updating regulatory files, and following up on corrective actions.
Who this work suits
Holland code CEI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer structured environments with clear rules and organized systems. You're comfortable managing details and timelines while also coordinating with others to reach business goals—combining a methodical approach with the drive to move projects forward.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $84,590 | $111,030 | $132,960 | 4,380 |
| Massachusetts | $78,390 | $102,060 | $130,230 | 13,190 |
| New Jersey | $76,180 | $100,000 | $128,790 | 13,310 |
| California | $71,240 | $96,980 | $127,380 | 49,880 |
| Connecticut | $71,810 | $91,810 | $109,990 | 3,610 |
| Delaware | $65,520 | $91,050 | $105,800 | 2,150 |
| Vermont | $68,220 | $90,420 | $108,510 | 1,960 |
| New York | $66,670 | $90,080 | $119,430 | 23,500 |
| Washington | $74,770 | $88,790 | $116,210 | 11,130 |
| Rhode Island | $74,550 | $87,620 | $110,090 | 970 |
| Minnesota | $68,200 | $85,920 | $109,010 | 6,140 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,280 | $85,580 | $130,990 | 19,810 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC) — Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society
- Associate, Insurance Regulatory Compliance (AIRC) — LOMA
- Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) — The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
- Certified Professional Property Specialist (CPPS) — National Property Management Association, Inc.
- Certified Export Specialist (CES) — The National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
- Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) — Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against regulatory affairs specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1041.07 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.