Job Description

The Legislative Aide is an entry-level position within a Senator's office and may perform as a liaison between the legislative office and constituents, as well as local, state, federal agencies and international government agencies on various constituent and scheduling related matters. The Legislative Aide position may vary depending on office needs and Senator priorities and may include performing routine research, constituent casework, bill tracking, correspondence, office administration or press and public relations functions. This position is supervised by a Senator or by a more senior staff member and work may be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, content, and methods. Candidate must be self-motivated, detail oriented, have the ability to multi-task, possess sound judgment and ability to handle sensitive and complex issues. The Executive Assistant reports to the Senator and Chief of Staff.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Answer office phones and email, manage the mail, receive visitors, order and draft citations and resolutions in recognition of constituent achievements, manage Senator correspondence and schedule, greet visitors to the State House, and facilitate routine inter-office communications.
Assist constituents in dealing with government agencies to resolve problems related to the receipt of government services. Conduct constituent casework. Create and maintain casework records.
Draft written materials related to Senator correspondence, testimony, press releases, newsletters, talking points, or legislation.
Liaise with citizen groups, agencies, individuals, and other stakeholders.

Other Duties and Responsibilities May Include:

Coordinate State House and in-district meetings for Senator.
Research, track, and analyze legislation and budget items of interest to the Senator.
Monitor committee hearings or floor debates and report legislative action or developments to Senator or appropriate office staff.
Collaborate with office staff on projects.
Provide staff support to Senator in the state house or district.
Attend events with the Senator or on their behalf.
Maintain the Senator's schedule under the supervision of senior staff.
Monitor newspapers and media for emerging issues and information related to legislative business.
In absence of Senator of other senior staff, act as contact with media or represent Senator at meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

One to two years of college or technical school, or, alternatively, at least 2 years of relevant work experience.

Ability to interact, coordinate and work effectively with the public, members of the legislature, legislative staff, and executive branch.

3. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

4. Ability to work cooperatively with legislators.

5. Knowledge of office computer applications.

6. Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

7. Ability to maintain a flexible schedule including extended hours, possibly on nights and weekends.

8. Ability to travel to the district when necessary.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Basic understanding of state government operations and the legislative process.

Ability to think critically.

Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.

5. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

6. Self-motivated, have the ability to multi-task, possess sound judgment and ability to handle sensitive and complex issues.

7. Portuguese and Spanish speaking preferred.

The Senate's total compensation package features an outstanding set of state employee benefits for eligible employees which you may consider towards your overall compensation, including, but not limited to:

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

The Massachusetts Senate is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, military, and veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Our goal is to be a workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the diverse commonwealth we serve, and women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.