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The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Legislative Director - Office of Senator Payano

1 month ago• Boston, MA

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Legislative Director (LD) is a senior member of the Senator's team and serves as advisor and manager for the Senator's legislative agenda. The LD is the office point person on all legislative matters including, but not limited to: bills filed and co-sponsored by the Senator, legislation before the Senate, and legislative concerns from constituents. The LD leads the development of policy positions and oversees all legislative initiatives on behalf of the Senator. The LD reports to the Chief of Staff.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Research policy issues and draft legislation, amendments, and committee testimony.
  • Collaborate with and advise the Senator and senior office staff on the formulation of strategies and legislation designed to advance the Senator's policy and budget priorities.
  • Monitor and maintain up-to-date knowledge on legislation affecting the Senator's district and legislation on which the Senator is a principal sponsor or co-sponsor.
  • Organize and manage workflow for hearings, meetings and events related to the Senator's legislative priorities and committee assignments.
  • Respond to legislative-related inquiries and communications from constituents, organizations, legislators, and other stakeholders.
  • Brief the Senator on key issues prior to meetings, caucuses, and Senate sessions.
  • Convene, inform, and persuade various stakeholders regarding the Senator's legislative priorities.
  • Draft and edit speeches, talking points, and remarks for the Senator.

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Other Duties and Responsibilities May Include:

  • Research policy and legal issues related to legislation assigned to the Senator's committees.
  • Provide constituent services and case work on district issues, and support district events.
  • Assist with messaging, media relations and constituent outreach regarding the Senator's legislative agenda.
  • Attend events with the Senator or on their behalf.
  • Assist with general administrative duties: answering phones, ordering supplies, sorting mail.
  • Train, supervise, or participate in the hiring of office staff or interns.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree and at least 1 year of relevant work experience, or any of the following combinations of education and experience:
  • Associate's degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience;
  • Graduate degree or higher in a related field; or
  • At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience with and knowledge of the legislative process, public policy, or special-interest advocacy.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work cooperatively and professionally in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to maintain a flexible schedule including working extended hours, possibly on nights and weekends.
    • PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Graduate degree or higher in a related field, or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, and a member of good standing of the Massachusetts bar.
  • Bilingual ability in Spanish.
  • Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with thoroughness and careful attention to detail, and excellent organizational skills.
  • Management or supervisory experience and the ability to motivate employees.
  • Expertise and interest in policies related to Health Care, Criminal Justice Reform, Education, and Consumer Protection.
  • Familiarity with the First Essex District.
    • The Senate's total compensation package features an outstanding set of state employee benefits for eligible employees which you may consider towards your overall compensation, including, but not limited to:

    • 75% state-paid medical insurance premium
    • Reasonable Dental and Vision Plans
    • Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Assistance programs
    • Low-cost basic and optional life insurance - Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
    • 12 paid holidays per year and competitive Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time
    • Competitive Senate-sponsored parental leave - Tuition Benefit for employees and spouses at state colleges and universities
    • Long-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options
    • Employee Assistance Programs - Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities
    • Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

    The Massachusetts Senate is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, military, and veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Our goal is to be a workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the diverse commonwealth we serve, and women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

    Client-provided location(s): Boston, MA
    Job ID: Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts-250005BT
    Employment Type: FULL_TIME
    Posted: 2025-06-27T11:37:16

    Perks and Benefits

    • Health and Wellness

      • Health Insurance
      • Health Reimbursement Account
      • Dental Insurance
      • Vision Insurance
      • Life Insurance
      • Short-Term Disability
      • Long-Term Disability
      • FSA
      • HSA
      • Mental Health Benefits

    • Parental Benefits

      • Adoption Assistance Program
      • Family Support Resources

    • Work Flexibility

      • Flexible Work Hours
      • Hybrid Work Opportunities

    • Office Life and Perks

      • Commuter Benefits Program

    • Vacation and Time Off

      • Paid Vacation
      • Paid Holidays
      • Personal/Sick Days
      • Volunteer Time Off

    • Financial and Retirement

      • Pension
      • Financial Counseling

    • Professional Development

      • Promote From Within
      • Mentor Program
      • Access to Online Courses
      • Lunch and Learns
      • Internship Program
      • Leadership Training Program
      • Associate or Rotational Training Program

    • Diversity and Inclusion

      • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program