District Director - Office of Senator Finegold

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Boston, MA

5d•$67,114 - $85,117

About The Position

The District Director assists the Senator in maintaining close connection to district constituents, stakeholders, issues, and trends. In collaboration with, and at the direction of the Senator and Chief of Staff, the District Director acts as a liaison between the State House and the district on legislation and other matters of interest to district residents, businesses, and service providers. Utilizing a network of district contacts and a variety of strategies, tools and skills, the District Director ensures that the Senator is informed about district concerns and legislative priorities and is engaged in important district events. The District Director reports to the Chief of Staff. All applicants are required to submit a cover letter and resume. New hires can expect a salary between $67,114 and $85,117, which will be based on related experience, education, and training.

Requirements

One to two years of college or technical school and at least 1 year of relevant experience, or any of the following combinations of education and experience:
Bachelor’s degree; or
At least 3 years of relevant work experience.
Basic understanding of state government operations and the legislative process.
Demonstrated experience and understanding of the Senator’s district issues, demographics, politics, stakeholders, and history.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work cooperatively and professionally with a variety of stakeholders.
Temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to think critically and work both independently and as part of a team.
Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to maintain a flexible schedule including working extended hours, possibly on nights and weekends.

Nice To Haves

Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel within the Second Essex & Middlesex Senate District when needed.

Responsibilities

Coordinate with the Chief of Staff to assist town officials, businesses, and organizations in resolving district issues.
Monitor district newspapers, media outlets, social media, and other relevant news sources.
Provide staff support to the Senator at district events and meetings including pre-event briefings, preparation of talking points and other advance work.
Inform and advise the Senator on district issues, events, outreach opportunities and economic and demographic trends.
Coordinate the delivery of or present awards and citations on behalf of the Senator.
Respond to district inquiries on legislation, policy, grants, and other information related to local needs.
Receive and respond to constituent requests for help resolving problems or for assistance in receiving services, products, or benefits from federal, state, local or private-sector providers, providing constituents with regular casework progress updates.
Communicate across municipal, state, and federal agencies, advocacy groups, and local and statewide organizations to address constituent concerns and problems.
Collaborate with and assist the Senator’s policy team in tracking state budget and bond authorization requests from municipalities and organizations in the district and make recommendations to the Senator for consideration.
Schedule, plan, and coordinate district meetings and events for the Senator.
Manage the Senator’s calendar on days when the Senator is in the district.
Research legislation and budget issues.
Assist with general administrative duties: answering phones, ordering supplies, sorting mail.
Train, supervise, or participate in the hiring of office staff or interns.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

75% state-paid medical insurance premium
Reasonable Dental and Vision Plans
Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Assistance programs
Low-cost basic and optional life insurance
Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
12 paid holidays per year and competitive Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time
Competitive Senate-sponsored parental leave
Tuition Benefit for employees and spouses at state colleges and universities
Long-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options
Employee Assistance Programs
Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities
Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program