Deputy Legislative Director (Consultant Advisor 1)

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The primary purpose of this position is to support and strengthen the Governor’s legislative agenda by assisting the Legislative Director in developing, advancing, and managing policy initiatives. The Deputy Legislative Director helps coordinate the Governor’s legislative strategy, monitors bills throughout the legislative process, and works closely with state agencies, legislative staff, and stakeholders to ensure accurate communication and timely issue resolution. This role provides analysis, drafts materials, prepares briefing information for the Governor and senior leadership, and supports negotiations or discussions on key policy items. It also helps track legislative deadlines, identify emerging issues, and ensure that the Governor’s priorities are effectively represented and implemented. As the Deputy Legislative Director for the Governor’s Office, all responsibilities listed below are carried out in close partnership with the Legislative Director. The Legislative Director holds primary decision‑making authority and leads all legislative strategy, engagement, and communication on behalf of the Governor. The Deputy Legislative Director provides secondary support by assisting, coordinating, and advancing these activities, ensuring continuity of operations, and helping execute the Legislative Director’s direction across legislative planning, relationship management, and policy development.

Requirements

Seven years of executive-level policy development or foundational experience directly related to the position being recruited; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience working with the Legislature or supporting legislative operations during session, with a strong understanding of committee dynamics and legislative workflow.
Background in legislative affairs within a state agency, elected office, or advocacy organization, with experience managing or supporting the full legislative process.
Proven ability to work effectively with legislators, legislative staff, lobbyists, and policy advocates, including experience coordinating or partnering with contract lobbying firms.
Strong familiarity with legislative procedures, timelines, bill tracking, and the end‑to‑end process from concept development through passage and implementation.
Demonstrated success stewarding complex policy proposals through the legislative process, including building support, addressing concerns, and navigating political considerations.
Skilled relationship‑builder with the ability to collaborate across agencies, stakeholders, and diverse interest groups on shared policy goals.
Excellent judgment, communication skills, and political awareness, with the ability to anticipate issues and provide clear, informed recommendations.

Responsibilities

Build and maintain strong working relationships with legislators, staff, stakeholders, and partner agencies; provide guidance on the impacts of legislation, rules, and policies.
Support the development and coordination of the Governor’s legislative agenda, from concept creation through implementation of new laws.
Work to advance the Governor’s proposals by briefing committee members, stakeholders, and partners on programs, policies, and legislative needs.
Assist with reviewing, editing, and approving written testimony and legislative reports; help assign and manage report development as required by law.
Represent the Governor’s Office in work groups, task forces, meetings, and public or private forums on legislative and policy issues.
Help ensure the Governor’s long‑term goals and policy direction are communicated and carried out across legislative activities.
Support communications and coordination with the public and the Governor’s press office on legislative and policy matters.