Legislative Researcher

The Hawaii State Senate is seeking detail-oriented and analytical Legislative Researchers to join our team for the upcoming legislative session. This position is ideal for individuals with strong research, analytic, and writing skills who want to make a meaningful impact in government, public policy, and legislative affairs.
Under supervision, the Researcher will perform complex policy and fiscal research, analyze qualitative and quantitative data, draft key legislative documents, and support committee operations for either the Senate Majority Research Office (SMA)—which drafts legislation and supports the Senate's overall legislative agenda—or the Committee on Ways and Means (WAM)—which oversees appropriations and bills with fiscal implications. This role serves as a vital resource for research offices, committees, State Senators, staff, and government agencies by delivering clear, actionable recommendations and objective findings.

• Senate Majority Research Office (SMA): 

• Policy & Legislative Drafting: Draft legislation, bills, resolutions, committee reports, and assist assigned committees with hearing preparation and documentation.

• Ways and Means Committee (WAM): 

• Research & Data Analysis: Conduct comprehensive research on legislative proposals, public policy, budgets, and fiscal matters; assess fiscal impacts and analyze complex quantitative and qualitative data to guide policy decisions.

• Legislative Support & Committee Operations: Respond to inquiries from Senators, legislative staff, and external government agencies; prepare and organize meeting notes, summaries, and documents; and support committee operations.
• Stakeholder Communication & Project Coordination: Communicate professionally with government officials, staff, and the public; collaborate with team members and stakeholders to manage projects while maintaining confidentiality and discretion.
• Special Projects: Perform other legislative, administrative, and research-related duties as assigned.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree is a plus.

• Experience: Experience performing policy or research-related work within a legislative or public policy environment is helpful, but not required—training will be provided.

• Legislative Knowledge: Understanding of the state legislative process, committee procedures, and State programs/operations preferred.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent critical thinking, investigative, and data analysis capabilities; ability to interpret and communicate complex information clearly and concisely.
• Communication & Professionalism: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining high standards of integrity, professionalism, and discretion.

• Must be able to work in-person at the Hawaii State Capitol in Honolulu, Oahu.
• Open to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents.