Legislative Director - Office of Senator Finegold

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Boston, MA

7d • $79,570 - $100,914

About The Position

The Legislative Director (LD) is a senior member of Senator Finegold’s team, serving as an advisor and manager for the Senator’s legislative agenda. The LD is the office point person on legislative matters, including bills filed or co-sponsored by the Senator, legislation before the Senate, and legislative concerns raised by constituents. The LD leads the development of policy positions and oversees legislative initiatives on the Senator’s behalf. The position reports to the Chief of Staff.

New hires can expect a salary between $79,570 and $100,914, based on related experience, education, and training.

The Massachusetts Senate offers eligible employees a state employee benefits package. The Senate is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 1 year of relevant work experience; alternatively, an associate’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience, a graduate degree or higher in a related field, or at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience with and knowledge of the legislative process, public policy, or special-interest advocacy.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate tactfully, positively, and professionally with a variety of personalities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work cooperatively and professionally in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule, including extended hours and possible nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Research policy issues and draft legislation, amendments, and committee testimony.
• Collaborate with and advise the Senator and senior office staff on strategies and legislation advancing the Senator’s policy and budget priorities.
• Monitor legislation affecting the Senator’s district and legislation for which the Senator is a principal sponsor or co-sponsor.
• Organize and manage workflow for hearings, meetings, and events related to legislative priorities and committee assignments.
• Respond to legislative-related inquiries and communications from constituents, organizations, legislators, and other stakeholders.
• Brief the Senator on key issues before meetings, caucuses, and Senate sessions.
• Convene, inform, and persuade stakeholders regarding the Senator’s legislative priorities.
• Draft and edit speeches, talking points, and remarks for the Senator.
• Research policy and legal issues related to legislation assigned to the Senator’s committees.
• Provide constituent services and casework on district issues, and support district events.
• Assist with messaging, media relations, and constituent outreach regarding the Senator’s legislative agenda.
• Attend events with the Senator or on the Senator’s behalf.
• Assist with general administrative duties, including answering phones, ordering supplies, and sorting mail.
• Train, supervise, or participate in hiring office staff or interns.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• State-paid medical insurance premium (75% as written in the posting: “75%25”).
• Dental and vision plans.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Assistance programs.
• Low-cost basic and optional life insurance.
• State Employees’ Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan.
• 12 paid holidays per year, plus sick, vacation, and personal time.
• 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 the Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

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