Legislative Assistant to Representative Kristine Lytton, Chair of the Finance Committee, Washington State House of Representatives
UPDATE: We are no longer accepting applications for this posting.
Mission: To assist Legislators in successfully fulfilling their public obligations by providing support services in the areas of administration, communication, research and public relations.
Reports to: The Representative, Caucus Staff Director, Chief Clerk
Location: The position is based in Olympia.
To apply: Please send your cover letter and resume in one document by October 16 to Amy.Ruble@leg.wa.gov
Necessary Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
- Effective written and oral communication skills
- Ability to anticipate and prioritize the needs of the Representative
- Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and discuss controversial issues with diplomacy and tact
- Ability to be proactive and work independently to fully develop materials and propose next steps
- Ability to research and analyze relevant constituent and policy issues
- Ability to track legislation and organize member briefings and materials
- Ability to perform multiple tasks accurately and efficiently complete projects under time constraints
- Ability to exercise professional judgment and maintain confidentiality
- Experience conducting complex and detailed scheduling
- Must be tech-savvy, highly organized and able to think clearly in a fast paced environment
- Flexibility to travel to district and other requested locations to attend meetings on the member’s behalf
- Familiarity with the 40th legislative district helpful, but not required
Typical Assignments
Administration
- Manage the Representative’s schedule and travel arrangements, providing all materials
- Manage daily operation of office including monthly reimbursements and daily reports
- Supervise, as delegated by the member, independent interns and volunteers. Coordinate with the intern coordinators to direct the work of interns
- Organize, attend, and generate reports for stakeholder meetings led by the Representative
Communication
- Manage a high volume of constituent inquiries and casework
- Facilitate and coordinate communication between the Representative, legislators, state officials, staff, agency personnel, stakeholders and constituents in the development and advancement of legislation
- Serve as a liaison between the Representative and constituents of the Legislative District; exercising independent judgment to determine and implement appropriate courses of action
Research
- Track advancement of bills through the legislative process. This may entail monitoring of committee hearings, securing committee testimony and records preparation
- Identify and monitor district specific issues
- Work with OPR and Caucus staff to develop materials and prepare briefings for members
Public Relations
- Represent the office at legislative and community events in a professional manner
- Staff the Representative at constituent and stakeholder meetings, tracking commitments and following up
- Work with Communications staff and the Representative on articles, newsletters, press releases, speeches, town hall meetings and district events
The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, people of color, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.