Government Relations State and Regional Affairs Coordinator

Multnomah County • Portland, OR

5d • $90,000 - $115,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Multnomah County seeks a talented professional for the position of Government Relations State and Regional Affairs Coordinator in the Office of Government Relations. This is a fast-paced position that requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills and strong writing. As the State and Regional Affairs Coordinator, you will work with elected leaders and staff from local governments within and around Multnomah County and lobby members of the Oregon Legislature to further the mission of the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners. The position also serves as a state legislative analyst and political advisor to Multnomah County staff and the Board of County Commissioners.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of relevant experience
• 1-2 years of experience working in a local government, legislative and/or public policy-making position
• Familiarity working with community groups, government entities, or elected officials
• Demonstrated experience effectively communicating politically sensitive information
• Experience developing briefing materials and talking points
• Demonstrated organization and project management skills & abilities
• Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work; must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment
• Ability to travel as needed for legislative activities during the state legislative session
• You are familiar with using an equity or racial justice lens in decision making processes and knowledgeable about the principles and practices of collaborative decision-making; you have experience facilitating and engaging in conversations about race, social justice, economic mobility and/or other intersectional experiences that play a critical role in engaging a diverse community
• Knowledge of legislative or local government processes and protocols
• Experience working with and lobbying elected officials
• Excellent and effective communication skills, including outstanding writing skills
• Demonstrated skill in collaborating with staff, community stakeholders or public officials to advance the County's agenda
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to manage stress and remain flexible in a changing environment
• Passion for County issues
• Knowledge of communications portals and web-based resources for legislative activity
• Have knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply relevant sections of local, regional, state, and federal mandates
• Ability to conduct an analysis of issues and policies with an equity lens and in accordance with County values and priorities
• Ability to remain objective in a political environment and to properly handle private and confidential matters

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in lobbying or legislative analysis positions
• Experience tracking legislation and drafting policy recommendations
• Demonstrated ability to interact confidently with state legislators, local elected officials, agency staff, and other government leaders
• Demonstrated ability to develop long-term relationships with elected officials and government leaders
• Strong understanding of how the Oregon legislative process works and how local government functions
• Knowledge of Multnomah County government, its mandates and functions, and familiarity with the regional and local policy issues and challenges that affect Multnomah County is a plus

Responsibilities

• Develop an outreach plan and maintain relationships with area local governments and community advocacy organizations
• Collaborate with state legislators, state agencies, local governments and interest groups to get legislation introduced, defeated, modified or passed by the Oregon legislature and signed by the Governor
• Monitor hearings, meetings, and other legislative activities in state, regional and local government
• Utilize bill tracking management software to track, analyze, research, issue spot, and interpret legislation in order to provide legislative updates for commissioners and departments
• Advise the Government Relations team and Board when formulating strategies for a wide range of complex and politically sensitive legislative issues informed by community, local, regional and state relationships
• Represent Multnomah County at hearings, meetings, regional policy tables and other legislative activities, including drafting and delivering testimony
• Work internally with elected and departmental leaders to develop county positions on complex issues that reflect internal and sometimes competing priorities

Benefits

• Multnomah County offers an exceptional benefits package, including employer-funded retirement savings; health and dental insurance at very low cost to full-time employees and their dependents; paid parental leave; wellness programs; a focus on work-life balance; and much more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level