District Legislative Aide (District 35)

The Office of State Senator Barbara Sharief is now accepting applications for a District Legislative Aide.  This is work assisting the Senator with a variety of administrative and public relations matters requiring a thorough understanding of the policies, procedures, and operating practices of the Florida Legislature. An employee in a position allocated to this class performs duties of limited variety and complexity.  Work involves the performance of various routine and non-routine tasks following clearly defined standardized practices.            
 
Attorneys are encouraged to apply. 

The successful candidate will be assigned to work from the Senator’s Broward County District Office and travel to Tallahassee for the Legislative Session. 

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: Pursuant to sections 112.3144 and 112.3145, F.S., this position is required to electronically file a Form 1 –Statement of Financial Interests with the Florida Commission on Ethics within 30 days of hire

• Assists in managing a district office and all its functions related to the constituency.
• Serves as a liaison for constituents with a focus on communication.
• Responds to inquiries by seeking solutions to problems or assisting in the communication with appropriate State agencies.
• Performs research to gather and assemble information for drafting of bills, speeches, or special reports and legislative updates.
• Assists in maintaining an active constituent listserv.
• Attends various local functions and meetings to gather information, or on behalf of the supervisor, as a representative of the staff.
• Maintaining supervisor’s calendar and arranging appointments.
• Prepares and distributes press releases, press advisories and other public information data.
• Assists in managing the district office expense account. 
• Assists in maintenance of district office files including selection of newspaper articles and other source materials for files.
• Formulates replies to correspondence in draft or final form depending on the complexity of the issue.
• Advises supervisor of issues and projects in the district that require involvement in order to better serve the district. 
• Reviews all correspondence, reports, and legislative proposals for accuracy and quality of content.
• May perform extensive background research on a bill or appropriation request in working it through the committee process.

• Manages the office’s digital communications technology.
• Prepares basic financial reports detailing office expenses.
• Assists with the expense reimbursement process
• Performs other related duties as required.

• Knowledge of office procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of personal computers and use of software.
• Knowledge of the methods for organizing and presenting data.
• Knowledge of Florida laws, the legislative and political processes and protocol.
• Knowledge of digital communication technologies, including email, Google Docs, Microsoft Office, and Slack.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to use independent judgment in handling media inquiries and news releases.
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
• Ability to review work for accuracy and quality of content.
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the demands of the public, press, and lobbyists.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality.
• Ability to work and make decisions independently.
• Ability to compose correspondence.
• Ability to prepare reports and maintain records.
• Ability to manage time well.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a team member and to contribute to the effective internal functioning of the operation.
• Ability to travel within the district
• Ability to relocate to Tallahassee during the Legislative Session

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and one year of administrative experience.

A master’s degree from an accredited college or university can substitute for the one year of required experience.

Professional or non-professional administrative experience can substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required college education.

Preferred Qualifications

Attorneys are encouraged to apply.  Preference will be given to applicants with a background in the political and legislative process and in communications.  Strong writing skills are helpful. 

Salary

Salary commensurate with experience

The Legislature offers a competitive benefits package.

Accommodation for Disability

If an accommodation is needed for a disability, please notify Human Resources at (850) 488-6803.