Session Staff Counsel or Research Analyst

at  Washington State Senate

CRITICAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to effectively interact with others who have diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, religious views, cultural backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, gender identities, sexual orientations, veteran statuses,
• geographical backgrounds, educational backgrounds, and disability statuses to promote trust.
• Knowledge of or interest in learning the legislative process. Service-based and team-oriented approach to work.
• Proven ability to perform high-quality, objective research and analysis in a position requiring high levels of self-direction.
• Excellent analytical, writing, problem solving, and oral communication skills.
• A creative, flexible, cooperative, service based and team-oriented approach to work.
• Capability to handle the complex, difficult situations that are common in the fast-paced, results-oriented, high-pressure legislative environment.
• Proficiency in multiple computer applications, including word-processing software, presentation applications, and on-line research.
• COVID-19 Alert: Due to operational changes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the functions of this position may be performed virtually.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

A law degree or master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a related field is desired, however diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Long and irregular hours are required during the legislative session, including evening and weekend work. When the Legislature is not in session, flexible schedule options are available.
• This position works in-person in Olympia during the legislative session. When the Legislature is not in session, in-state remote work is supported, except when needed to be in-person for training or legislative meetings.

SCS provides nonpartisan staff support to the members and committees of the Washington State Senate in Olympia, Washington. Duties include:

• Performing legal and policy research and analysis.
• Drafting bills, amendments, and other legislative documents
• Developing and evaluating policy alternatives to assist Senators in meeting their goals.
• Presenting legislation and other policy matters before committees.
• Monitoring and analyzing implementation efforts by state and local government agencies.
• Responding to inquiries on pertinent policy issues.
• Developing appropriate professional relationships with Senators, other legislative staff, state agency staff, and interest groups.