Legislative Research Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA

Salary: $22.48 - $76.53 Hourly
Location : City Hall, 600 4th Ave., Seattle, WA
Job Type: Civil Service Exempt, Regular, Full-time
Job Number: 2026-01038
Department: Legislative Department
Opening Date: 08/04/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Description
The has an exciting opportunity for a Legislative Assistant - Policy Lead in the , Chair of the Libraries, Education and Neighborhoods (LEN) Committee. If you are passionate about public policy, enjoy working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and want to make a meaningful impact for Seattle residents, this opportunity offers a chance to grow your skills and advance your career in public service.
The position's primary functions are to track legislation, manage the committee's portfolio, identify emerging issues, and conduct policy research and analysis. We are seeking candidates with general experience in policy analysis and/or development, but areas of emphasis may include public safety, education, human services, housing, land use, and transportation. As a Legislative Assistant - Policy Lead, you will represent and promote the interests of Councilmember Rivera through collaboration with colleagues including the Legislative policy staff, community organizations and stakeholders, and District 4 constituents. While the main body of work is managing the policy work of the office, it will also encompass a broad range of legislative and administrative tasks.
This is a position in a hard-working office where teamwork, ability to work in a rapidly evolving environment, and organizational capabilities are valued. The office is comprised of three staff members, all of whom report to Councilmember Rivera. This at-will appointment serves at the discretion of the Councilmember.
You will be successful in this role if you have:

• Strong experience in policy development, skilled in research, and able to decipher and present complex data/information.
• Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines and accomplish objectives with minimal supervision or oversight.
• Comfort with adapting to shifting priorities and navigating projects and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to approach new challenges and opportunities with confidence and expedience.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to clearly communicate complex issues.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook or similar office tools.

The initial review of applications will take place for those received by Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 4:00 pm Pacific Time. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, and the position will remain open until filled.
Job Responsibilities

• Track legislation coming from all Council and select committees.
• Manage LEN Committee presentations, including preparation of agendas and minutes, managing in-person and hybrid meetings, ensuring timely publication of presentation materials and memos, and tracking public notice requirements.
• Compile data; perform or assist in the organizing, analyzing and interpreting of data; thoughtfully summarize and present findings.
• Research, investigate, and survey available sources of information related to a variety of complex policy issues, including public safety, education, human services, land use, and immigrant and refugee affairs.
• Stay informed about policy issues and legislation before the City Council, and emerging issues in District 4 or throughout the City.
• Lead policy work in policy portfolio including, but not limited to, education, immigrant and refugee affairs, neighborhoods, and libraries.
• Collect a variety of information from existing records and contacts with local, regional, state, and federal jurisdiction staff.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in public administration, political science, law, or other relevant field. Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability to the minimum education and experience requirements.
• At least three years of experience in a policy, legal, economic, or organizational research through work or educational experience.

You may be even more prepared for this role if you have:

• Have a Master's Degree in public administration, political science, or other relevant field; or experience demonstrating educational equivalency.
• Demonstrate commitment to public service, appreciation for vigorous discussion, and willingness to work hard to accomplish meaningful goals.
• Demonstrate ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.

Additional Information
Total Compensation and Benefits
This position is classified as a Legislative Assistant and is exempt from the Seattle Civil Service System. The full salary range for this classification is $22.48 - $76.53 hourly. The starting salary range for this individual role has been identified as $87,696 - $108,576 annually ($42.00 - $52.00 hourly).
Additionally, the City offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:
Work Environment
This position will be onsite at Seattle City Hall (600 Fourth Ave. 2nd Floor, Seattle, WA).
Why Work at the City?
The City of Seattle recognizes every City employee must play a role in ending institutional and structural racism. Our culture is the result of our behavior, our personal commitments, and the ways that we courageously share our perspectives and encourage others to do the same. To cultivate an antiracist culture, we seek employees who will engage in the by working to dismantle racist policies and procedures, unlearn the way things have always been done, and provide equitable processes and services.
How To Apply:

1. Complete a NEOGOV online application and supplemental questionnaire.
2. Attach a PDF of your cover letter in which you clearly describe how your knowledge, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job announcement.
3. Attach a PDF of your resume.

Applications received without the requested materials will not be considered.
The initial review of applications will take place for those received by Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 4:00 pm Pacific Time. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, and the position will remain open until filled.
If you have any questions, please contact the Legislative Department HR Team at
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.
More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:
01
Answers to the following questions will help us determine whether candidates meet the minimum requirements of the position. Indicating "see resume" or "see application" are not sufficient responses to the supplemental questions. A complete and accurate application is required for this position. Did you update your City of Seattle application to reflect any recent changes to your experience and/or education?A cover letter and resume are required documents. Missing the attachments will flag your submission as incomplete.Did you attach a cover letter and resume?NOTE: Even if you have imported your resume directly into the application fields, you must still attach it.

• Yes
• No

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This role requires providing research and analysis to support District 4's priorities. Please describe your experience with providing policy research and/or analysis in a government, private, or non-profit and the roles you held in those projects.
Required Question