Employment

Position Announcement: Associate Legislative Assistant to House Democratic Caucus Member, Washington State House of Representatives, Democratic Caucus

Associate Legislative Assistant to House Democratic Caucus Member, Washington State House of Representatives, Democratic Caucus

OPENS: December 8, 2022

CLOSES: December 15, 2022

REPORTS TO: Representative and Legislative Assistant Staff Director

LOCATION: Thurston County – Olympia, Washington during session; Option of Olympia or King County District Office during interim

SALARY: Starts at $45,444 Annually (may be set higher based on prior work experience and higher education attendance)

ABOUT THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:

The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made of 98 members, elected to serve two-year terms representing 49 legislative districts. The House employs 250 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns. The Legislature meets annually beginning on the second Monday in January in the Capitol Building in Olympia. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.

Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:

• We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;
• We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; and
• We refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.

ABOUT THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS:

The Washington State House Democratic Caucus (HDC) consists exclusively of the Democratic members of the Washington State House of Representatives. Our caucus staff team is comprised of administrative, policy and communications professionals supporting HDC members in their legislative activities. Policy analysts provide analysis, research and legislative strategy advising in their respective policy areas to all House Democrats. Communications specialists help members of the HDC communicate with their district, the media, interested parties and the general public about policies considered and passed by the Legislature. Legislative assistants staff and manage individual member offices.  HDC caucus staff share a passion for public service, a commitment to addressing inequities in partnership with community, and for improving the way Washington delivers services to its residents.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Legislative Assistants support their assigned Representative in successfully fulfilling their duties by providing services in the areas of administration, office management, communication, research, bill tracking, and constituent correspondence.  This is a full-time year-round position that is exempt from civil service laws.

How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute:

• Manage daily operation of Olympia and/or district office.
• Maintain office records in accordance with the Washington State Public Records Act.
• Answer phone and act as first point of contact for all callers and visitors.
• Manage the Representative’s calendar including complex scheduling assignments, individual appointments, group meetings, public events, and travel arrangements.

• Track advancement of bills throughout drafting and legislative process to ensure that timelines and deadlines are met.
• Draft responses on behalf of the Representative to emails, letters, and phone calls. Manage a high volume of constituent inquiries.
• Facilitate communication between constituents and government agencies, assisting constituents in accessing services, and researching and solving complex problems.
• Submit detailed and timely accounting reports for member travel and expense reimbursement.

 The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:

• Two years of office management and administrative support experience, ideally in a fast paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple responsibilities at the same time under time constraints, exercising professional judgment and confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Demonstrated ability of strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including standard formatting and protocol for professional correspondence.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and related software to include video conference technology.
• Demonstrated ability to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

• Knowledge of legislative process and state and local government structure, functions, and services.

Note: Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be considered.

Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions
This position requires an onsite/in-person presence during the legislative session and frequently requires more than 40 hours of work per week, which may include evening, weekends, and holidays during legislative sessions. Interim schedules allow for more flexibility. This position is currently approved for in-state telework during the interim with an expectation to have an onsite-in-person presence when requested.

Benefits:
Employee benefits include vacation and sick leave; paid state holidays; health, life, and other optional insurance; retirement; social security; and military leave.

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an organization, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can Washington State House of Representatives employees achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the House of Representatives.

To Apply: Send a cover letter, résumé and three professional references (with contact information) in one document electronically to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov by December 15. Applicant screening will begin immediately. This position will have an anticipated start date of December 29, 2022. Applications for this recruitment may be considered for other HDC vacancies.

The Washington State House of Representatives is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or using a service animal. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

 

Position Announcement: Equity and Social Justice Strategic Advisor, House Democratic Caucus (HDC)

Equity & Social Justice Strategic Advisor, House Democratic Caucus (HDC)

OPENS:              November 18, 2022

CLOSES:             Open Until Filled (first review will begin close of business December 8, 2022)

 REPORTS TO:   Chief of Staff, House Democratic Caucus

LOCATION:       Thurston County — Olympia, Washington

SALARY:            Policy Analyst II: $70,860-$124,992 annually

Senior Policy Analyst:  $90,684-$160,020

(Specific salary will depend on successful candidate’s experience and qualifications)

About the House of Representatives:

The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made up of 98 members elected to serve two-year terms, representing 49 legislative districts.  The House employs approximately 240 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns.  Staff workgroups include, nonpartisan staff, Democratic Caucus staff and Republican Caucus staff. The Legislature meets annually on the second Monday in January in the Capitol Building in Olympia.  Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years.  Special legislative sessions occur as needed.

Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.

The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:

• We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;
• We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; and
• We refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.

About The House Democratic Caucus:

The Washington State House Democratic Caucus (HDC) consists exclusively of the Democratic members of the Washington State House of Representatives. Our caucus staff team is comprised of administrative, policy and communications professionals supporting HDC members in their legislative activities. Policy analysts provide analysis, research and legislative strategy advising in their respective policy areas to all House Democrats. Communications specialists help members of the HDC communicate with their district, the media, interested parties and the general public about policies considered and passed by the Legislature. Legislative assistants staff member offices and support legislators in successfully fulfilling their duties through scheduling and administration, office management, research, casework, and constituent correspondence. HDC caucus staff share a passion for public service, a commitment to addressing inequities in partnership with community, and for improving the way Washington delivers services to its residents.

Honoring equity, diversity, and inclusion means that we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures, and attributes, can our staff achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the House of Representatives.

Position Profile:

The Equity & Social Justice Strategic Advisor will provide support and advice to the staff and members of the House Democratic Caucus aimed at meeting our mission of becoming an anti-racist and inclusive workplace. In this role, you will provide strategic advisement and technical assistance to the Democratic elected officials of the House of Representatives and the staff workgroups within the HDC, with the aim of transforming the HDC’s practices, policies, and culture to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through coaching, training, technical assistance, and facilitation, this position will help members and staff at all levels of the HDC to apply a racial equity framework to strategic planning.
The HDC Equity & Social Justice Strategic Advisor will be a member of the House Democratic Caucus Senior Staff.

How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute:

• Participate and lead a caucus wide effort to complete a racial equity strategic plan and monitor the implementation of the plan for both short term and long-term goals.
• Develop and help implement new policies, systems, and enhanced inclusion practices through leadership roles within the caucus.
• Develop a core team within the HDC that is responsible for representing the HDC both externally and internally, provide leadership, coaching and technical assistance to members and staff workgroups to develop goals and implement equity strategies.
• Provide support to the elected leadership roles of the caucus to implement racial equity strategies and policies.
• Facilitate trainings, workshops and more for the staff workgroups of the caucus.
• Participate in DEI work across the Legislature and align the work with other state-wide initiatives, including participating in the Pro Equity-Anti Racist Initiative. This could include the following: completing a baseline equity impact review of the caucus; monitoring and tracking efforts around equity on the PEAR initiative; and developing materials for moving the work forward in a strategic plan that leverages the work being done in other state initiatives.

Your Effectiveness in This Role Will Depend on Your Ability To:  

• Model racial equity in relationships with co-workers, colleagues, community, and others.
• Respect people’s lived experience and reflect a deep understanding of race, social justice and equity in your interactions and work.
• Build collaborative and productive relationships with community members, institutions, and organizations, including experience working closely with communities of color, immigrant and refugee communities, and other historically marginalized communities.
• Communicate at all levels effectively and tactfully.
• A demonstrated a commitment to anti-racist work, racial equity, and social justice in your professional practice, volunteer work, and/or lived experience.
• Be deeply curious, self-aware, and manage conflict and difficult situations.
• Think critically, apply racial analysis skills, and understand how change happens in institutional systems and settings.

The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:

• A minimum of eight years demonstrating:
  • Experience strategically leading equity and social justice efforts at the organizational level, including the development of operational and strategic work plans.
  • Organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage several projects successfully while also managing day-to-day priorities.
  • Expertise in critical thinking and analysis of complex issues with the ability to communicate them to general audiences in a way that is easily understood.
  • Experience advancing systems change and dismantling systems of oppression.
  • Experience working and facilitating collaboration across multiple groups.
  • Team management with the ability to influence, build relationships with others, motivate, and lead.
• Understanding of racial equity and social justice principles, institutional racism, and demonstrated ability to apply knowledge to institutional work.
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills.

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in social work, public administration, psychology, or another field with demonstrable applicability.
• Experience applying a results-based leadership or results-based accountability framework.
• Experience engaging in difficult conversations and/or leading training on topics that related to diversity, inclusion, racism and/or inequity.
• Familiarity with the Legislature, including experience interacting with elected officials and the public and/or experience working within local, county or state government.

Note:  Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be considered.

Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:

This position requires an onsite/in-person presence in Olympia during session and must be able to frequently work more than 40 hours per week including evenings, weekends, and holidays during legislative sessions. Interim schedules allow for more flexibility.  *This position is currently approved for in-state telework with an expectation to have an onsite-in-person presence when requested.

Benefits:

Employee benefits include vacation and sick leave; paid state holidays; health, life, and other optional insurance; retirement; social security; and military leave.

How to Apply:

Intrigued?  If so, please submit the below items combined in one document:

(1) a letter of interest specifically addressing how you meet the qualifications;

(2) a current resume describing in detail your experience and education; and

(3) a minimum of three professional references with contact information (e.g., address, e-mail address, and telephone).

Send application materials and direct any questions to:              househr@leg.wa.gov

Remember the first review of applicants will begin close of business December 8, 2022.

The Washington State Legislature is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or religion. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

 

Position Announcement: Session Legislative Assistant, House Democratic Caucus

Session Legislative Assistant, House Democratic Caucus

Opens:               November 18, 2022

Closes:               Open until filled, applicant screening will begin November 21, 2022

Reports to:         Legislative Assistant, Representative, Legislative Assistant Staff Director

Location:            Thurston County – Olympia, Washington

Salary:               $3880 monthly. This position is full-time, temporary, and exempt from civil service laws. Anticipated end date is April 24, 2023.  This position does not include benefits

Position Profile:

The HDC hires three Session Legislative Assistants to support two fiscal committee chairs and members of leadership.  At the direction of the Executive Legislative Assistant, the Session LA will perform tasks in the areas of office administration, correspondence, casework, and bill and budget tracking.

About The House of Representatives:

The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made of 98 members, elected to serve two-year terms representing 49 legislative districts. The House employs 250 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns. The Legislature meets annually beginning on the second Monday in January in the Capitol Building in Olympia. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.

Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:

• We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;
• We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; and
• We refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying

About The House Democratic Caucus:

The Washington State House Democratic Caucus (HDC) consists exclusively of the Democratic members of the Washington State House of Representatives. Our caucus staff team is comprised of administrative, policy and communications professionals supporting HDC members in their legislative activities. Policy analysts provide analysis, research and legislative strategy advising in their respective policy areas to all House Democrats. Communications specialists help members of the HDC communicate with their district, the media, interested parties and the general public about policies considered and passed by the Legislature. Legislative assistants staff member offices and support legislators in successfully fulfilling their duties through scheduling and administration, office management, bill tracking, casework and constituent correspondence. HDC caucus staff share a passion for public service, a commitment to addressing inequities in partnership with community, and for improving the way Washington delivers services to its residents.

How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute:

Administration:

• Answer phones and screen calls for Legislative Assistant
• Assist with scheduling tasks by maintaining accurate lists of appointment requests, setting up video conference links, reserving conference rooms, and timekeeping
• Create and maintain rosters and contact lists, edit and format documents
• Take accurate notes and messages from constituents, staff, agency and stakeholder calls and meetings.
• At direction of the Legislative Assistant, sort email and maintain filing systems for correspondence, scheduling, budget requests, and committee materials
• Maintain office records in accordance with the Washington State Public Records Act

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 about the legislative process
• 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 Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:

• 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
• Experience scheduling meetings using video conference technology including Microsoft Teams and Zoom
• Knowledge of state and local government agency functions and services, and judicial structure
• Ability to uphold legislative decorum, exercise professional judgment, and maintain confidentiality

Note: Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be considered.

Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:
This position requires an onsite/in-person presence during the legislative session, including state holidays. Some evening and weekend work may be required.

How To Apply:

Intrigued?  If so, please submit the below items combined in one document:

(1) a letter of interest specifically addressing the qualifications;

(2) a current resume describing in detail your experience and education; and

(3) a minimum of three professional references with contact information (e.g., address, e-mail address, and telephone)

Send application materials to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov. Applicant screening will begin November 21, 2022, but screening will continue until the position is filled.

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an organization, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures, and attributes, can Washington State House of Representatives employees achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the House of Representatives.

The Washington State House of Representatives is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a service animal. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

 

Position Announcement: Legislative Assistant Liaison

Legislative Assistant Liaison – House Democratic Caucus 

Opens:            November 9, 2022
Closes:             Open until filled, applicant screening will begin November 18, 2022
Reports to:      Legislative Assistant Staff Director
Location:         Thurston County – Olympia, Washington; option to work remotely or from Seattle district office during the legislative interim with frequent travel to Olympia.
Salary:             $58,176 – $102,588 annually. Salary placement will depend on successful candidate’s experience and qualifications.

About The House of Representatives:
The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made of 98 members, elected to serve two-year terms representing 49 legislative districts. The House employs 250 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns. The Legislature meets annually beginning on the second Monday in January in the Capitol Building in Olympia. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.

Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:

• We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;
• We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; and
• We refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.

About The House Democratic Caucus:
The Washington State House Democratic Caucus (HDC) consists exclusively of the Democratic members of the Washington State House of Representatives. Our caucus staff team is comprised of administrative, policy and communications professionals supporting HDC members in their legislative activities. Policy analysts provide analysis, research and legislative strategy advising in their respective policy areas to all House Democrats. Communications specialists help members of the HDC communicate with their district, the media, interested parties and the general public about policies considered and passed by the Legislature. Legislative assistants staff member offices and support legislators in successfully fulfilling their duties through scheduling and administration, office management, bill tracking, casework and constituent correspondence. HDC caucus staff share a passion for public service, a commitment to addressing inequities in partnership with community, and for improving the way Washington delivers services to its residents.

Position Profile:
The Legislative Assistant Liaison is a key member of the House Democratic Caucus team. The Legislative Assistant Liaison works with the Legislative Assistant Director to provide administrative support and resources to House Democratic Caucus Legislative Assistants (LAs).

How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute:

• Personnel and Administrative Support
  • Provide short-term member office coverage, including but not limited to monitoring email, answering phones, scheduling, responding to member requests, and responding to constituents
  • Act as a resource for LAs regarding House policies, forms, and operations
  • Assist LAs in reviewing and submitting administrative requests including travel authorizations, leave requests, interim schedules, overtime trackers, reimbursements, and session allowances
  • Provide administrative support to LA Director to facilitate LA hiring process
  • Provide support to the LA Director and Operations Coordinator with activities, trainings, and programs directly related to the LA workgroup
• Internal Communication
  • Anticipate the needs of the LA workgroup and collaborate with LA Director to provide relevant and timely information and updates
  • Be accessible and serve as a resource to the LA workgroup to answer questions and refer them to the appropriate staff when needed
• Mentorship & Equity Work
  • Lead a small group of LAs to coordinate Open Pathways mentorship program
  • Serve on internal staff equity team
  • Maintain LA mentorship program and facilitate partnerships and mentor relationships between LAs and other House staff
  • Collaborate with LA Director and interested LAs to provide professional development opportunities
  • Support and participate in monthly LA meetings and annual LA Advance

The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:

• Highly organized and able to perform detailed tasks accurately and efficiently under time constraints
• Able to prioritize a wide variety of short- and long-term tasks from multiple individuals
• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including knowledge of standard format and protocol for professional correspondence
• Communicate effectively internally and externally
• Ability to work independently, exercise professional judgment, and maintain confidentiality

Note: Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be considered.

Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:
This position requires an onsite/in-person presence during the legislative session and frequently requires more than 40 hours of work per week, which may include evening, weekends, and holidays during legislative sessions. Interim schedules allow for more flexibility. This position is currently approved for in-state telework during the interim with an expectation to have an onsite-in-person presence when requested. There is also an option to work from a Seattle district office during the legislative interim.

Benefits:
Employee benefits include vacation and sick leave; granted leave, paid state holidays; health, life, and other optional insurance; retirement; social security; and military leave.

How To Apply:
Intrigued?  If so, please submit the below items combined in one document:
(1) a letter of interest specifically addressing the qualifications;
(2) a current resume describing in detail your experience and education; and
(3) a minimum of three professional references with contact information (e.g., address, e-mail address, and telephone).

Send application materials to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov. Applicant screening will begin November 18, 2022, but screening will continue until the position is filled.

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an organization, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures, and attributes, can Washington State House of Representatives employees achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the House of Representatives.

The Washington State House of Representatives is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a service animal. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993.

 

 

Position Announcement: Caucus Casework Coordinator

Caucus Casework Coordinator, House Democratic Caucus

Opens:            November 10, 2022
Closes:             Open until filled, applicant screening will begin November 18, 2022
Reports to:      Legislative Assistant Staff Director
Location:         Thurston County – Olympia, Washington; option to work remotely or from Seattle district office during the legislative interim with frequent travel to Olympia.
Salary:             $50,160 – $88,476 annually. Salary placement will depend on successful candidate’s experience and qualifications.

About The House of Representatives:
The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made of 98 members, elected to serve two-year terms representing 49 legislative districts. The House employs 250 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns. The Legislature meets annually beginning on the second Monday in January in the Capitol Building in Olympia. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.

Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:

• We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;
• We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; and
• We refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.

About The House Democratic Caucus:
The Washington State House Democratic Caucus (HDC) consists exclusively of the Democratic members of the Washington State House of Representatives. Our caucus staff team is comprised of administrative, policy and communications professionals supporting HDC members in their legislative activities. Policy analysts provide analysis, research and legislative strategy advising in their respective policy areas to all House Democrats. Communications specialists help members of the HDC communicate with their district, the media, interested parties and the general public about policies considered and passed by the Legislature. Legislative assistants staff member offices and support legislators in successfully fulfilling their duties through scheduling and administration, office management, bill tracking, casework and constituent correspondence. HDC caucus staff share a passion for public service, a commitment to addressing inequities in partnership with community, and for improving the way Washington delivers services to its residents.

Position Profile:

The Caucus Casework Coordinator is a key member of the House Democratic Caucus team. The Caucus Casework Coordinator works with the Legislative Assistant Director, Caucus Operations Coordinator and House Democratic Caucus Legislative Assistants (LAs). The purpose of the position is to provide casework assistance to constituents by liaising with state and local agencies and service providers on behalf of legislative offices.

How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute:

• 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 materialsto share with Legislative Assistants
  • Represent member offices to constituents, agencies, and non-governmental organizations regarding casework
  • Collaborate with LAs to represent each office by applying polite, confidential, efficient, and effective communication and problem-solving skills
  • Provide written updates to member offices and supervisor
  • Maintain organized, detailed casework logs and case files in accordance with public record retention requirements
• Administrative
  • Provide short-term member office coverage, including but not limited to monitoring email, answering phones, scheduling, responding to member requests, and responding to constituents
  • Responsible for developing and providing regular casework briefings and trainings for caucus Legislative Assistants. This includes organizing briefings from agencies or other service providers and providing on-going resources and trainings for staff

The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:

• Proven problem-solving abilities
• Knowledge of state and local government agency functions and services, and judicial structure
• Highly organized and able to perform detailed tasks accurately and efficiently under time constraints
• Able to prioritize a wide variety of short- and long-term tasks from multiple individuals
• Effective and culturally competent communicator
• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills, including knowledge of standard format and protocol for professional correspondence

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

• Handle sensitive cases and respectfully communicate with constituents experiencing crisis
• Listen, problem solve, and communicate with kindness and empathy
• Bilingual a plus
• Persistent and resourceful in conducting research and problem solving
• Prior experience or training in casework, social work, or working for elected officials
• Prior legislative, office management, and administrative support experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook email and calendar functions

Note: Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be considered.

Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:
This position requires an onsite/in-person presence during the legislative session and frequently requires more than 40 hours of work per week, which may include evening, weekends, and holidays during legislative sessions. Interim schedules allow for more flexibility. This position is currently approved for in-state telework during the interim with an expectation to have an onsite-in-person presence when requested. There is also an option to work from a Seattle district office during the legislative interim.

Benefits:
Employee benefits include vacation and sick leave; granted leave, paid state holidays; health, life, and other optional insurance; retirement; social security; and military leave.

How To Apply:
Intrigued?  If so, please submit the below items combined in one document:
(1) a letter of interest specifically addressing the qualifications;
(2) a current resume describing in detail your experience and education; and
(3) a minimum of three professional references with contact information (e.g., address, e-mail address, and telephone).

Send application materials to jobs.hdc@leg.wa.gov. Applicant screening will begin November 18, 2022, but screening will continue until the position is filled.

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an organization, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures, and attributes, can Washington State House of Representatives employees achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the House of Representatives.

The Washington State House of Representatives is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a service animal. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993.