WSLC seeks Legislative and Policy Director

(July 22, 2013) — The Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO is the largest labor organization in Washington State, representing some 400,000 trade unionists in 600 local unions. Focusing primarily on political, legislative, policy, and organizing support the WSLC serves as the voice of labor and the locus of the labor movement in the state.

The WSLC is currently looking to fill the position of Legislative and Policy Director.

JOB DESCRIPTION:  The Legislative and Policy Director is part of the WSLC lobby team that is directed by the President, the chief administrative officer of the Council. Working with the Government Relations Director, who also serves as the lead lobbyist for the Council, the Legislative and Policy Director will help develop the WSLC’s biennial legislative agenda. As part of the legislative development process, the Director will chair, co-chair, or serve on a number of internal and external policy committees, work with affiliated unions and community partners on policy goals, draft convention resolutions, conduct workshops, and represent the Council by speaking at various union, legislative and community functions. As part of the lobby team, the Director will be responsible for meeting with legislators, legislative and agency staff, testifying at legislative and administrative hearings, writing testimony, talking points and position papers and helping our affiliates and community allies navigate the legislative process. The Director will also be responsible for other policy assignments made by the President.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  The position requires at least three years of legislative/lobbying experience at the local, state, or federal levels. Content expertise is required in at least two of the following areas: workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, workforce training, health care, health and safety, employment standards, education, or tax and revenue policy. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. Knowledge of the Washington State Legislature, Washington State Legislators, and the Washington State Labor Movement is preferred.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  The Legislative and Policy Director is part of the administrative staff of the WSLC and as such is part of the collective bargaining agreement between the WSLC and Office and Professional Employees International Union, Local 8. The Director is a member of OPEIU Local 8. The contract provides excellent wages, medical care, including dental and vision, vacation and holiday leave, and a defined-benefit pension plan and an employer matched savings plan. Starting wage is commensurate with experience and set by the President.

PROCESS AND START DATE:  Interviews will begin in mid-August and will continue until a candidate is chosen. The goal is to fill the position in September. Please submit the following to Jeff Johnson, President, WSLC, AFL-CIO, 314 First Ave. W, Seattle, WA, 98119:

1. Formal letter of interest stating why you have interest in the position.
2. A resume, complete with recommendations.
3. A writing sample on a policy position.

Interviews will be scheduled by Jan Hays jhays@wslc.org.

The Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO, is an equal opportunity employer. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.