Legislative Assistant

This position is Exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System

Recruitment #071619-MUAF01-102010

Summary Statement

Represents Senator(s) and/or the Caucus to community and neighborhood groups. Performs information and referral duties related to individuals and groups requesting assistance from a Senator(s) and/or the Caucus. Speaks on behalf of Senator(s) and/or Caucus with citizens in meetings and on the telephone to identify problems, determine assistance needed, and refer issues to appropriate governmental departments for resolution. Informs Senator(s) of ongoing issue progress and resolution. Reports activities regularly to the Chief of Staff.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Interacts with the public, constituents, community groups, and others on behalf of Caucus as a whole in a way that is professional and respectful.
  • Receives complaints and inquiries from the public, constituents, community groups and others in order to research and provide or make necessary referral to the appropriate government office/agency for resolution.
  • Participates at meetings and events with and/or on behalf of the Senator(s) as needed, providing Senator(s) and/or Chief of Staff with written briefing shortly following.
  • Maintains open and confidential communication with Caucus Senator(s) and Caucus staff.
  • Tracks progression of constituent inquires via the designated Constituent Tracking System.
  • Ensures follow-up of constituent inquiries/problems.
  • Writes letters to constituents and others.
  • Drafts press releases in order to timely and effectively communicate important policy and legislative issues.
  • Conducts research on complex issues.
  • Works cooperatively and jointly with other Caucus staff members to provide seamless constituent service. Processes Community Transportation Fund requests, drainage requests, and other requests through the proper governmental agency.
  • Assists in updating social media, newsletters and other Caucus internal and external media to help communicate important policy and legislative issues.
  • Utilizes the utmost professionalism when dealing with angry or distraught constituents.
  • Maintains confidentiality on all issues when working on Caucus assignments and issues discussed during Caucus meetings.
  • Organizes meetings for Senator(s) with the public, state agencies, local organizations, elected officials, and others.
  • Schedules appointments, maintains calendar and keeps Senator(s) informed.
  • Photographs Senator(s) at various functions, meetings, and legislative appointments.
  • Reviews/monitors media sources to keep Senator(s) up to date on current issues and searches for information that may benefit or affect the Senate Caucus and its constituents.
  • Tracks progression of Senator(s)’s bills and resolutions through the legislative process and researches future legislation.
  • Arranges logistics for Senator(s)’s visitors or witnesses to be seated on the Senate floor.
  • Exhibits high level of professionalism in conduct, work ethics and appearance.
  • Completes all other duties assigned by the Senator(s), Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Legislative Assistant

Please attach a resume with your online application or use the resume tab in DEL to provide a detailed description of how your education, training and/or experience meets each job requirement including employer, experience/responsibilities and dates (month/year) of employment/training. Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

  1. Outgoing "people person" who can solve problems and work independently as well as part of a team.
  2. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  3. A background or strong interest in policy and policy research.
  4. Experience in customer relations.
  5. An interest or background in state government, public policy and politics.
  6. Ability to interact professionally with people at all levels inside and outside the Caucus.
  7. Ability to research and analyze relevant constituent and legislative issues, to track legislation and prepare member briefings and materials.
  8. Ability to perform multiple tasks accurately and efficiently under time constraints.
  9. Ability to exhibit high level of professionalism and maintain confidentiality.
  10. Experience with Microsoft Word and major social media platforms.

Benefits

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Selection Process

The application and resume are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and resume to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.