Job Description
JOB Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career that is actively working on critical legislation to improve California, address issues in our communities, and meet the needs of all Californians? Consider the California State Senate and be part of an organization that serves to strengthen the State through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity in a high-energy, team-oriented environment, you are encouraged to apply.BASIC FUNCTIONS: Under the direction of the Senator, the Chief of Staff, Legislative Director and Press Secretary, the Legislative Aide/Press Aide will work with both the Legislative Team and District Team, District and statewide organizations, local governments, and state agencies. The Legislative Aide/Press Aide will effectively communicate the Senator’s position on issues, and attend Floor Session, committee hearings, events and meetings with or on behalf of the Senator, as assigned. Additional responsibilities include implementing a communications plan under the direction of the Press Secretary, and assisting the Press Secretary with talking points, e-alerts, overseeing and posting on social media accounts, creating videos, general legislative updates, managing the district newsletter and pitching stories to reporters. Outstanding writing skills, creativity, and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely under tight deadlines is required.DUTIES: Under the direction of the Senator, Chief of Staff, Legislative Director and Press Secretary the Legislative Aide/Press Aide will help generate media interest in the Senator’s position on issues relating to the district through social media posts, email outreach, targeted pitch calls, and press conferences. Other duties may include writing and distributing news releases, talking points for public appearances, updating content on the Senator’s state web page and social media accounts (including Facebook and Twitter), and distributing daily clips and other news stories of interest. The Legislative Aide/Press Aide will also prepare background materials, talking points and may be required to accompany the Senator to events or represent the Senator at events.DESIRABLE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Excellent research, oral and written communication skills are required, along with the ability to manage multiple projects, work well under deadlines, and embrace a team-oriented philosophy and environment. The ideal candidate will have a creative vision, be comfortable staffing the Senator at events including taking appropriate photos and videos, and be able to analyze complex policy issues and “think outside the box” to solve problems and propose solutions, then explain those complex issues in terms the public can easily identify with and understand. Knowledge of the legislative process and prior media-related experience and social media content creation experiences are strongly desired.EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree required. Legislative experience preferred. Please include verification of your degree with your completed application.Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, in addition to proficiency with Microsoft Office and PCs. A current driver’s license and automobile liability insurance are mandatory. Knowledge of legislative culture and process is preferred. Prior experience with LCMS is a plus. A strong commitment to providing excellent service to constituents is necessary.Before being hired, candidates for this position are required to participate in the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Employee Pull Notice Program and must complete a DMV Form INF 1101, which authorizes the release of their driving record to the Senate Rules Committee. You must possess a valid California Driver’s License with a clean driving record. In addition, you are required to have proof of liability insurance at all times.LOCATION, SALARY AND FILING DATE: This position is located in Sacramento, CA and requires in person attendance. The Senate’s core business hours are 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and may require after hours or weekend work, according to the office’s needs.Final salary will be commensurate with experience and education. Seniority and significant experience are required to reach the higher end of the salary range.Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.BENEFITS: The Senate offers a competitive benefits package, which includes: HealthDentalVision California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)401(k) and 457 plansFlexible spending accountsHOW TO APPLY: Please visit the Senate Careers page at www.senate.ca.gov/senatejobs to apply.A cover letter and resume are required in addition to the Senate application. NOTE: Please complete the Senate application