Staff Counsel or Research Analyst

Washington State Senate Committee Services•Olympia, WA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Legislature is seeking an analytical, collaborative, and creative research analyst or counsel for the Senate Committee Services (SCS) nonpartisan workgroup. This position will perform legal and policy research and analysis, draft bills and other legislative documents, and assist Senators with policy development. The role involves providing objective, nonpartisan service to members of the Washington State Senate, supporting the legislative process in a fast-paced, results-oriented, high-pressure environment. SCS ensures that committee meetings and legislative processes operate efficiently, effectively, and are accessible to the public.

Requirements

Ability to effectively interact and promote trust with others who have diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, religious views, cultural backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, gender identities, sexual orientations, veteran statuses, geographical backgrounds, educational backgrounds, and disability statuses.
Knowledge of or interest in learning the legislative process.
Proven ability to perform high-quality, objective research and analysis in a position requiring high levels of self-direction.
Excellent analytical, writing, problem solving, and oral communication skills.
A creative, flexible, cooperative, service based and team-oriented approach to work.
Capability to handle the complex, difficult situations that are common in the fast-paced, result-oriented, high-pressure legislative environment.
Proficiency in multiple computer applications, including word-processing software, presentation applications, and on-line research.

Nice To Haves

A law degree or master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a related field is desired, however diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered.

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.