Employment

Position Announcement: Legislative Assistant to Representative Gael Tarleton

Legislative Assistant to Representative Gael Tarleton, Washington State House of Representatives

Mission:  To assist Legislators in successfully fulfilling their public obligations by providing support services in the areas of administration, office management, communication, research and public relations

Reports to:  Representative Tarleton, Legislative Assistant Staff Director, Chief Clerk

Location:  The position is based in Olympia during session. Interim location is negotiable (Seattle or Olympia).

To apply:  Please send your cover letter and resume in one document to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov by December 16, 2019.

PREFERRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Prior office management and administrative support experience
• Knowledge of legislative process and state and local government structure, functions, and services
• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including knowledge of standard format and protocol for professional correspondence
• Highly organized and able to perform multiple detailed tasks accurately and efficiently under time constraints
• Experience conducting complex and detailed scheduling and travel arrangements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook, with the ability to work with speed and accuracy in both programs.
• Flexibility to travel to requested locations to attend meetings and provide staff support to the member
• Ability to work independently, exercise professional judgment, and maintain confidentiality

TYPICAL ASSIGNMENTS

Office Management:

• Create and maintain electronic and physical filing and organizational systems for office operations, committees, task forces, and ongoing projects
• Answer phone and act as first point of contact for all callers and visitors, observing formal professional protocol in all external communications

Scheduling:

• Manage the Representative’s calendar with a high level of accuracy, including complex scheduling assignments, individual appointments, group meetings, public events, and travel arrangements
• Respond to staff, constituent, and stakeholder appointment requests
• Plan and organize town hall meetings
• Coordinate meeting preparation materials when needed
• During session, attend meetings with constituents on member’s behalf, as needed

Bill Management:

• Track advancement of bills throughout drafting and legislative process to ensure that timelines and deadlines are met.  This includes maintaining detailed bill tracking spreadsheets and drafting bill and budget request letters to committee chairs

Correspondence & Writing:

• Draft responses on behalf of the Representative to constituent emails, letters, and phone calls. Manage a high volume of constituent inquiries
• Draft correspondence to agencies and other elected officials
• Coordinate between Communications staff and the Representative to prepare articles, newsletters, press releases, speeches, and talking points

Casework & Constituent Service:

• Facilitate communication between constituents and government agencies, assisting constituents in accessing services, and researching and solving complex problems
• Serve as a liaison between the Representative and constituents of the Legislative District; exercising independent judgment and providing high level customer service

Expense Reimbursement:

• Submit detailed and timely accounting reports for member travel and expense reimbursement, according to House policy
• Budget member expense account to ensure that funds are available for planned expenses
• Maintain organized records of expenses and reimbursements

The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process or who need an application in an alternative format may call 360-786-7750 or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

 

 

Position Announcement: Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist
Washington State House of Representatives, Democratic Caucus

Salary: Based on previous job experience and qualifications

To Apply: Send electronically a cover letter, résumé, writing sample, and any audio, video, or graphic design samples to: jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov by December 6, 2019

AGENCY DESCRIPTION:

The House of Representatives is comprised of the elected members of the House of Representatives and the staff necessary to carry out the business of a legislative branch of state government. Staff workgroups include nonpartisan staff, Democratic caucus staff, and Republican caucus staff. The Democratic Caucus consists of the Democratic members of the Washington State House. Each caucus has partisan staff positions that assist the members of the House.

This Olympia-based job is a full-time position with health care, retirement, paid leave, and other benefits. Some nights and weekends will be required during the legislative session. Telecommute and flex schedules are available when the Legislature is not in session, subject to approval.

Caucus communications specialists are experienced communications professionals who are part of a team that advances public policy aimed at improving the lives of Washington’s seven million residents. We work on statewide policies relating to K-12 education, higher education, early learning, health care, human services, criminal justice, environment, transportation, business, labor, agriculture, housing, veterans, economic development, technology, public safety, equal rights, and many more.

If you are a communications professional interested in serving the public working on one or more of these issue areas, you are encouraged to apply.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Caucus communications specialists are responsible for disseminating legislative information to the public for House Democrats. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Working with elected officials and staff to provide district-specific communication strategies for mass media and constituent outreach
• Working with digital communications team to develop, design, and format visually-engaging materials for web, print, electronic, and social media platform distribution
• Working with issue-area policy experts to effectively communicate complex policies using simple, easy-to-understand methods
• Writing press statements, talking points, editorial pieces, video scripts, newsletters, speeches, digital media copy, etc.
• Producing audio and video clips, maintaining member websites, and exploring new media opportunities
• Organizing media events within district and on capitol campus
• Producing town hall and end of session products, presentations for caucus and committee hearings
• Helping maintain and expand the caucus webpages
• Serving as a primary contact for legislative reporters, facilitating interview requests, and providing background information as needed.

Successful candidates will have the ability to:

• Communicate clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences using plain language
• Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative process
• Use proper judgment to maintain discretion and confidentiality
• Create various multimedia products such as photos, videos, diagrams, infographics, charts, and maps that allow complex public policy issues to be understood by a general audience
• Produce and publish content designed to increase social media engagement
• Work with various web-based communications programs such as Facebook, Twitter, WordPress, GovDelivery, and SharePoint, among others
• Produce products and work well under deadline
• Maintain a sense of humor, teamwork and flexibility to adapt to a wide variety of circumstances
• Work efficiently with diverse personalities in team and individual settings

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Manage multiple tasks, make decisions, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, pressure-filled environment
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Strong writing and messaging skills
• Familiar with Facebook, Twitter, and other social and web-based communications platforms

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Post-secondary degree and relevant work experience in communications, journalism, or related field
• Experience with website development, including basic knowledge of standard HTML/CSS practices
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud desktop applications (Photoshop, Premier Pro, Acrobat, lnDesign, Illustrator, Audition) web design/production/web content management (WordPress preferred) or similar applications
• Competency in methods and techniques of visual communication such as electronic illustration, design, animation, video, and page layout for print and electronic distribution
• Experience with audio production, video making/editing, or graphic design
• Use of analytics to improve communication effectiveness and work efficiency
• Familiarity with Washington state’s legislative process

The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam-era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process or who need an application in an alternative format may call 360-786-7750 or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

 

 

Position Announcement: Session Administrative and Constituent Support Services

Session Administrative and Constituent Support Services
House Democratic Caucus, Washington State House of Representatives

Mission: To assist House Democratic legislative office teams in successfully fulfilling their public obligations by providing casework support services to their constituents.  To further House Democratic Caucus and individual member priorities by providing administrative support to policy, communications, and coordinating staff.
Reports to:  Caucus Resource Coordinator, Chief of Staff,  and Chief Clerk
Salary Range:  Depends on qualifications. This is an exempt temporary position for the 2020 legislative session
Location: Olympia
Closing Date: Open until filled.  Early applications encouraged
To apply:  Please send your cover letter and resume in one document to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov

PREFERRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Prior legislative, office management, and administrative support experience
• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including knowledge of standard format and protocol for professional correspondence
• Persistent and resourceful in conducting research and problem solving
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook email and calendar functions
• Knowledge of legislative process, judicial system, and state and local government structure, functions, and services
• Ability to work independently, exercise professional judgment, and maintain confidentiality

TYPICAL ASSIGNMENTS

Casework

• Work with Legislative Assistants to identify, plan, complete and close cases
• Communicate with state agency liaisons, local governments, and nonprofit service organizations to find options and facilitate solutions
• Develop casework resource materials to share with Legislative Assistants
• Represent member offices to constituents, agencies, and non-governmental organizations regarding casework
• Represent each office as instructed by applying polite, confidential, efficient and effective communication and problem solving skills
• Provide written updates to member offices and Resource Coordinator as required
• Maintain organized, detailed casework logs and case files

Administrative

• Perform office administrative tasks such as: making copies, stocking office supplies, compiling briefing binders and training packets, maintaining bill tracking lists, editing and formatting documents and power point presentations, updating contact lists, and supporting special events
• Provide occasional member office coverage to include: answering phones, act as first point of contact for office visitors, compiling appointment requests, and keeping the member meeting schedule on track

The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process or who need an application in an alternative format may call 360-786-7750 or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

Position Announcement: Session Communications Specialist

Session Communications Specialist
Washington State House of Representatives, Democratic Caucus
Salary: Based on previous job experience and qualifications. This is an exempt session/temporary position
Closing Date: Open until filled, early applications encouraged
To Apply: Send your cover letter, résumé, writing sample, and any audio, video, or graphic design samples to: jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov

AGENCY DESCRIPTION

The House of Representatives is comprised of the elected members of the House of Representatives and the staff necessary to carry out the business of a legislative branch of state government. Staff workgroups include administrative staff, nonpartisan staff, Democratic caucus staff, and Republican caucus staff. The Democratic Caucus consists of the Democratic members of the Washington State House. Each caucus has partisan staff positions that assist the members of the House.

This Olympia-based job is a full-time temporary position lasting for the duration of the upcoming legislative session (January – March 2020). Some nights and weekends may be required.

Caucus communications specialists are communications professionals who are part of a team that advances public policy aimed at improving the lives of Washington’s seven million residents. We work on statewide policies relating to K-12 education, higher education, early learning, health care, human services, environment, transportation, business, labor, agriculture, housing, veterans, economic development, technology, public safety, equal rights, and many more.

If you are a communications professional interested in serving the public working on one or more of these issues areas, you are encouraged to apply.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Caucus communications specialists are responsible for disseminating legislative information to the public for House Democrats. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Working with elected officials and staff to provide district-specific communication strategies for mass media and constituent outreach
• Working with digital communications team to develop, design, and format visually-engaging materials for web, print, electronic, and social media platform distribution
• Working with issue-area policy experts to effectively communicate complex policies using simple, easy-to-understand methods
• Writing press statements, talking points, editorial pieces, video scripts, newsletters, speeches, digital media copy, etc.
• Producing audio and video clips, posting to websites, and exploring new media opportunities
• Organizing media events within district and on capitol campus
• Producing town hall and end of session products, presentations for caucus and committee hearings
• Helping maintain and expand the caucus webpages
• Serving as a primary contact for legislative reporters, facilitating interview requests, and providing background information as needed

Successful candidates will have the ability to:

• Communicate clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences using plain language
• Manage multiple tasks and make decisions in a fast-paced, pressure-filled environment
• Produce and publish content designed to increase social media engagement
• Work with various web-based communications programs such as Facebook, Twitter, WordPress, GovDelivery, and SharePoint, among others
• Produce products and work well under deadline
• Maintain a sense of humor, teamwork, and flexibility to adapt to a wide variety of circumstances
• Work efficiently with diverse personalities in team and individual settings

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficient with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Strong writing and messaging skills
• Familiar with Facebook, Twitter, and other social and web-based communications platforms
• Post-secondary degree or relevant work experience in communications, political science, journalism, or similar field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Create various multimedia products such as photos, videos, diagrams, infographics, charts, and maps that allow complex public policy issues to be understood by a general audience
• Familiarity with Washington state’s legislative process

The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam-era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process or who need an application in an alternative format may call 360-786-7750 or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

Position Announcement: Session Aide to House Democratic Caucus Member Office

Session Aide to HDC Member Office, Washington State House of Representatives

Mission:  To assist Legislators in successfully fulfilling their public obligations by providing administrative and constituent support services

Reports to:  Legislative Assistant, Representative, Caucus Staff Director, Chief Clerk

Salary range:  Depends on qualifications. This is an exempt session/temporary position

Start Date: January 6, 2020

Closing Date: Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received

To apply:  Please send your cover letter and resume in one document to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov .  Please include in your email how you heard about the position.

PREFERRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including knowledge of standard format and protocol for professional correspondence
• Persistent and resourceful in conducting research and problem solving
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook email and calendar functions
• Knowledge of legislative process, judicial system, and state and local government structure, functions, and services
• Ability to uphold legislative decorum, exercise professional judgment, and maintain confidentiality

TYPICAL ASSIGNMENTS

Administration:

• Answer phones, screen calls for Legislative Assistant, and greet visitors.
• Assist with scheduling tasks by maintaining accurate lists of appointment requests, reserving conference rooms, and guiding constituents and guests to meetings with the Representative.
• Prepare meeting materials, make copies, compile issue binders, update rosters and contact lists, edit and format documents.
• Take accurate notes and messages from constituent, staff, agency and stakeholder calls and visits.
• At direction of the Legislative Assistant, maintain electronic and physical filing systems for correspondence, scheduling, budget requests, and committee materials.

Correspondence & Communication:

• With supervision of Legislative Assistant, draft responses on behalf of the Representative to constituent emails, letters, and phone calls.
• Manage a high volume of constituent inquiries, providing friendly and accurate information to callers and visitors about the legislative process and capitol campus.
• Facilitate and coordinate communication between the Representative, legislators, state officials, staff, agency personnel, stakeholders and constituents in the development and advancement of legislation.
• With supervision of Legislative Assistant, perform casework, including facilitating communication between constituents and government agencies, assisting constituents in accessing services, and researching and solving complex problems. Coordinate with caucus caseworker when appropriate.

Bill and Budget Tracking:

• Maintain tracking spreadsheets to follow advancement of bills and budget requests throughout legislative process and ensure that timelines and deadlines are met.
• Support the Legislative Assistant in tracking and organizing member and stakeholder requests and information.

The Washington State House of Representatives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process or who need an application in an alternative format may call 360-786-7750 or TTD 1-800-635-9993.