What are the responsibilities and job description for the Legislative Administrative Specialist position at Legislative Council?
Open until positions are filled
The Legislative Council is the full-time legislative service agency for the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council staff perform various tasks such as budget review, legislative research, bill drafting, interim committee staffing, as well as publication and distribution of Session Laws, the North Dakota Century Code, and the North Dakota Administrative Code. The Legislative Council staff consists of attorneys, accountants, policy analysts, and information technology and legislative administrative specialists who serve on a strictly nonpartisan basis.
Summary of Work
Under the general direction of the Administrative Manager or the manager's designee, performs a wide range of high-level, complex administrative duties in support of nonpartisan legislative services. This role assists in preparing and processing meeting notices, agendas, minutes, and other meeting-related materials; editing letters, memorandums, bill drafts, and amendments; and managing other essential documentation.
The position requires proficiency in typing and a foundational understanding of current technology, software applications, and content management systems. Responsibilities include maintaining databases, updating website content, and performing other duties as assigned to support legislative operations.
Individuals in this role must demonstrate exceptional writing and language proficiency, meticulous attention to detail, and strong critical thinking skills. A key aspect of the position involves ensuring consistency and accuracy in formatting, editing, proofreading, and finalizing legislation, memorandums, publications, and various official documents.
This position serves as a vital function in supporting the legislative branch, including attorneys, accountants, policy analysts, and administrative personnel by upholding standards of professionalism and quality in all written communications.
Hours generally are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During a legislative session (January-April of odd numbered years) the working hours involve shift work, possible evenings and weekends, and paid overtime.
Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge
- Office technologies and software (e.g., Microsoft 365, Adobe PDF, content management systems)
- Basic office equipment and procedures
- Legal and legislative terminology; English grammar, usage, and punctuation
- Legislative process and document-handling tools
Skills
- Organization and task prioritization
- Clear, professional communication with staff and public
- Critical thinking and problem solving
Abilities
- Multitasking and meeting deadlines under pressure
- Proofread and apply office conventions with accuracy
- Learning new procedures and software quickly
- Working collaboratively and maintaining professional relationships
- Exercising sound judgment and maintaining confidentiality
- Asking clarifying questions and using available resources effectively
- Maintaining strong attendance and motivation
Additional experience in photography and graphic design, including proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, or Lightroom, is a plus, but is not required.
Minimum Qualifications
An associate's degree in English or journalism and at least 3 years of experience in an office environment resulting in the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of this position; or a bachelor's degree in business, English, political science, or related college-level coursework. Work experience over 6 years may substitute educational requirements.
Application Procedures
Ready to Apply?
- Submit your application and resume at www.nd.gov/careers by 11:59 PM Central Time (CT) on the closing date.
- Include details on how your background aligns with the role in your resume.
- A criminal background check is required for the selected candidate.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. (No visa sponsorships provided.)
Additional Information
For more information about the position or general questions about the application process, please contact:
Lori Ziegler
Legislative Administrative Officer
North Dakota Legislative Council
701-328-2916
lziegler@ndlegis.gov
TTY Number: ND Relay Service 1-800-366-6888
Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.