Employment Opportunities

Legislative Assistant - Job Description

Chip Shields -District 43 - N/NE Portland

Summary

Representative Shields seeks legislative assistant to work part-time 20/hrs. per week in Portland during the legislative interim (present to January 8, 2007). Ideal candidate would then continue full-time in Salem during the legislative session (January 9 to approximately July 15, 2007). Those interested only in P/T portion are also encouraged to apply.

General Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the member, the legislative assistant gives legislative support, performs constituent casework, and coordinates media and general communication on behalf of the legislator. Performs the duties below and other related duties as assigned.

Legislative Support

During legislative session, legislative assistant monitors committee hearings or floor debates as required by member and reports legislative action or developments to member. May work with legislative counsel to amend or draft legislation at direction of member. Tracks member's personal legislation and assists through the process as required by member. Coordinates legislative research. Handles all scheduling for member in legislative session and legislative interim.

Constituent Services

Provides responses to all constituents with legislative inquiries. Provides assistance by letter, telephone, e-mail and in person to constituents dealing with government agencies. Gathers information from agencies and other sources. Requires individual capable of researching and writing competently, in an effort to resolve constituent problems and serve as a liaison between legislator and constituents.

Communications

In consultation with caucus media director, drafts press releases and op-ed columns, coordinates media contact and plans press events. Assists in writing public speeches, floor speeches and testimony as needed. Assists caucus media director in the production of members' district newsletters, surveys and other bulk mailings by providing text and other materials.

Office Management

During legislative session, supervises the administrative assistant and coordinates the activities of office interns or volunteers. Oversees the member's office budget by monitoring monthly balances from Financial Services and receipts from Legislative Supply.

Experience, Education or Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of experience and education

Excellent organizational skills

Oral and written communication skills

Basic research skills and editorial skills

Typing and computer skills
Preferred/Helpful:

Outlook software experience

Experience in the legislature and/or political environment

Experience in legal research.

Experience and/or expertise in issues being addressed by the legislature

Experience in the district and knowledge of services in the district

Travel

Part-time position during legislative interim is in Portland. Full-time position during legislative session is in Salem. May require travel to some locations not accessible by public transportation.

Position Classification

A highly responsible, part-time/full-time, exempt, professional position.

Salary Range, Benefits & Duration of Position

Anticipated salary of $1100 to $1300 per month for part-time position moving to $2200 to $2600 per month for full-time position. Health insurance provided by State of Oregon.

Application Procedure

Send resume to 1125 SE Madison St.-Suite 100B, Portland, OR, 97214. Position closes July 10, 2006 at 11 a.m.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Position filled