Session Staff Counsel or Research Analyst

$81,756 - $119,304/Yr

State of Washington - Olympia, WA

Full-time - Entry Level

Onsite - Olympia, WA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Session Staff Counsel or Research Analyst position at the Washington State Senate involves performing legal and policy research, drafting legislative documents, and assisting senators in developing policy options. This role is crucial in supporting the legislative process by providing high-quality, nonpartisan service to the members of the Senate, particularly during the fast-paced legislative sessions.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• Ability to effectively interact with diverse backgrounds and 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 with self-direction.
• Excellent analytical, writing, problem solving, and oral communication skills.
• Creative, flexible, cooperative, and service-oriented approach to work.
• Capability to handle complex situations in a high-pressure legislative environment.
• Proficiency in multiple computer applications, including word-processing software and online research.

Nice-to-haves

• A law degree or master's degree in public administration, public policy, or a related field.

Benefits

• Paid sick leave
• Bereavement leave
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program