State of Washington
Session Committee Assistant (Hearing Room Specialist) | Office of Program Resear
State of Washington, Olympia, Washington, United States, 98502
Salary:
$4,174.00 - $4,471.00 Monthly
Location :
Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type:
Exempt
Job Number:
2024-11153
Department:
House of Representatives
Opening Date:
10/01/2024
Closing Date:
Continuous
Description
Washington State House of Representatives
Exempt Recruitment Announcement
Session Committee Assistant (Hearing Room Specialist) | Office of Program Research
OPENS :October 01, 2024 CLOSES: Open until filled. For best consideration, applicants are encouraged to submit materials by October 21, 2024. Screening, interviewing, and selection will begin immediately. REPORTS TO :Staff Director, Office of Program Research LOCATION :Thurston County -- Olympia, Washington SALARY :$4,174 - $4,471 monthly based on experience and qualifications. This position does not include benefits.The Washington State House of Representatives' Office of Program Research is currently seeking candidates for full-time, temporary positions as nonpartisan Session Hearing Room Specialists.
About the House of Representatives:The House of Representatives (House) is made up of 98 members elected to serve two-year terms. Regular legislative sessions begin on the second Monday in January and continue for 105 days in odd-numbered years and for 60 days in even-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.
Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds its members and staff to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; andWe refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.About the Office of Program Research:The Office of Program Research provides nonpartisan legal, policy, and fiscal services for House committees and members. Our work involves a wide range of issues relevant to the lives of Washingtonians. Our team consists of curious, creative, collaborative, and dedicated professionals. We share a commitment to public service, teamwork, and excellence.Duties
Position Profile:The Office of Program Research is currently seeking candidates for positions as nonpartisan Hearing Room Specialists. These positions are full-time, temporary, and exempt from civil service laws.
How You'll Be Expected to Contribute:Operate hearing room audio, video, and recording equipment.Schedule Zoom webinars and maintain participant lists.Provide clerical and administrative support to OPR research staff and House committees.Prepare and maintain official committee meeting materials and files.Assist with the planning and organizing of committee meetings.Provide information to legislators, staff, lobbyists, media, and the general public, via phone and email.Work independently as well as collaboratively with OPR research staff and other legislative and agency staff.Meet office standards for nonpartisanship, objectivity, and confidentiality.Qualifications
The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:
Knowledgeable in clerical and administrative procedures.Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Adobe, Chrome, and Zoom.Ability to quickly learn specialized computer applications designed for committee support.Proven ability to multi-task and use organizational and planning skills to prioritize tasks within competing deadlines.A proactive, creative, flexible, and service-oriented approach to work.Demonstrated ability to communicate with varied audiences and deal with the complex situations found in the fast-paced, high pressure legislative environment.Willingness to work the long, irregular hours that are common during a legislative session.Additional Desirable Qualifications:An undergraduate degree is preferred, but not required.Note:Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be consideredSupplemental Information
Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:These positions require an onsite/in-person presence on the Capitol Campus during the legislative session. Regular work hours for the House are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday, and may also include evenings, weekends, and holidays. These positions frequently require more than 40 hours of work per week.
Benefits:These positions are temporary and not eligible for benefits.
How to Apply:Intrigued? If so, please submit the below items combined in one document to
(1) a
letter of interest
(1 page) specifically addressing the qualifications;(2) a
current resume
(1 page); and(3) a
list of professional references
(1 page) with current contact information, including email addresses.
The Washington State Legislature is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a trained service animal by a person with a disability. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House HR Director at or 360-786-7030, or TTD 1-800-635-9993. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.
More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note:
If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
HolidaysFull-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note:
Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick LeaveFull-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note:
Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt
employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement LeaveMost employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
$4,174.00 - $4,471.00 Monthly
Location :
Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type:
Exempt
Job Number:
2024-11153
Department:
House of Representatives
Opening Date:
10/01/2024
Closing Date:
Continuous
Description
Washington State House of Representatives
Exempt Recruitment Announcement
Session Committee Assistant (Hearing Room Specialist) | Office of Program Research
OPENS :October 01, 2024 CLOSES: Open until filled. For best consideration, applicants are encouraged to submit materials by October 21, 2024. Screening, interviewing, and selection will begin immediately. REPORTS TO :Staff Director, Office of Program Research LOCATION :Thurston County -- Olympia, Washington SALARY :$4,174 - $4,471 monthly based on experience and qualifications. This position does not include benefits.The Washington State House of Representatives' Office of Program Research is currently seeking candidates for full-time, temporary positions as nonpartisan Session Hearing Room Specialists.
About the House of Representatives:The House of Representatives (House) is made up of 98 members elected to serve two-year terms. Regular legislative sessions begin on the second Monday in January and continue for 105 days in odd-numbered years and for 60 days in even-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed.
Our workplace is on the beautiful Capitol Campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains.
The House of Representatives holds its members and staff to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following:We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; andWe refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.About the Office of Program Research:The Office of Program Research provides nonpartisan legal, policy, and fiscal services for House committees and members. Our work involves a wide range of issues relevant to the lives of Washingtonians. Our team consists of curious, creative, collaborative, and dedicated professionals. We share a commitment to public service, teamwork, and excellence.Duties
Position Profile:The Office of Program Research is currently seeking candidates for positions as nonpartisan Hearing Room Specialists. These positions are full-time, temporary, and exempt from civil service laws.
How You'll Be Expected to Contribute:Operate hearing room audio, video, and recording equipment.Schedule Zoom webinars and maintain participant lists.Provide clerical and administrative support to OPR research staff and House committees.Prepare and maintain official committee meeting materials and files.Assist with the planning and organizing of committee meetings.Provide information to legislators, staff, lobbyists, media, and the general public, via phone and email.Work independently as well as collaboratively with OPR research staff and other legislative and agency staff.Meet office standards for nonpartisanship, objectivity, and confidentiality.Qualifications
The Successful Candidate Will Meet These Qualifications:
Knowledgeable in clerical and administrative procedures.Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Adobe, Chrome, and Zoom.Ability to quickly learn specialized computer applications designed for committee support.Proven ability to multi-task and use organizational and planning skills to prioritize tasks within competing deadlines.A proactive, creative, flexible, and service-oriented approach to work.Demonstrated ability to communicate with varied audiences and deal with the complex situations found in the fast-paced, high pressure legislative environment.Willingness to work the long, irregular hours that are common during a legislative session.Additional Desirable Qualifications:An undergraduate degree is preferred, but not required.Note:Diverse backgrounds in education and experience could be successful in this role and will be considered. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the work will be consideredSupplemental Information
Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions:These positions require an onsite/in-person presence on the Capitol Campus during the legislative session. Regular work hours for the House are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday, and may also include evenings, weekends, and holidays. These positions frequently require more than 40 hours of work per week.
Benefits:These positions are temporary and not eligible for benefits.
How to Apply:Intrigued? If so, please submit the below items combined in one document to
(1) a
letter of interest
(1 page) specifically addressing the qualifications;(2) a
current resume
(1 page); and(3) a
list of professional references
(1 page) with current contact information, including email addresses.
The Washington State Legislature is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a trained service animal by a person with a disability. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House HR Director at or 360-786-7030, or TTD 1-800-635-9993. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.
More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note:
If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
HolidaysFull-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note:
Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick LeaveFull-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note:
Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt
employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement LeaveMost employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022