Position Announcement ö Legislative Assistant 

Office of Seattle City Councilmember Mike O’Brien 
 

About the Positions 

Councilmember-elect Mike O’Brien is assembling a staff of three full-time legislative assistants to join him when he takes office in January 2010.  Mike is seeking smart, passionate individuals who are interested in creating a dynamic, responsive, and effective team. 

Legislative assistant responsibilities include:  promoting public participation and citizen engagement; identifying and building coalitions in the community; conducting public policy research and analysis; writing issue briefings; coordinating and staffing legislative committees; representing the Councilmember at City, public, and community meetings; partnering with other Councilmembers and their staff; supervising and mentoring interns; and communicating with constituents, the media, and the public at large.  Additionally, each legislative assistant will handle a set of administrative tasks such as scheduling, establishing office systems and procedures, and budgeting. 

Desired Qualifications 

• Commitment to public service, appreciation for vigorous discussion, and willingness to work hard to accomplish meaningful goals
• Degree in public administration, political science, law, urban planning, social work, communications, business, or other relevant field
• Professional experience in policy, legal, economic, or organizational research, community organizing, urban planning, or public relations
• Background or field work in a political environment
• Knowledge of the legislative process
• Effective written and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong research and analytical skills, and the ability to decipher complex issues
• Ability to shape innovative solutions to difficult challenges
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to connect with community members and community organizations
• Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment

 
Application Process 

Please submit the following materials, in a single attachment (Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format), to Cory Sbarbaro at OBrienLAjobs@gmail.com : 

• Cover letter;
• Resume; and
• References (please include email addresses, and specify the nature of your relationship with each reference).

 
 
Review of applications will begin on November 30, 2009.  Positions will remain open until filled.  We will keep applicants informed as the selection process unfolds.