Assistant to the Director / State Relations Associate

UW1861 University of Washington; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 66,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Washington seeks an Assistant to the Director/State Relations Associate to support day-to-day administrative tasks, assist with state lobbying, and coordinate events and communications. This role sits within the Office of State Relations and requires independent judgment and discretion.

Reporting to the Director, you will work with UW leadership, faculty, staff, and state legislators to advance the University’s priorities while maintaining strong relationships with government

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in public policy, political science, communications, or related field.
• 2+ years of professional experience with upper-level management support, public affairs, government relations, or legislative environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher).

Responsibilities

• Manage the Director's calendar and schedule meetings with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support University engagement in Olympia, on campus, or in legislative districts for UW leadership, faculty, and staff.
• Complete travel reimbursement and Procard verification documents; track invoices and expenses; oversee office operations and supplies.

Skills

Communication skills

MS Office

Independent judgement

Prioritization

Organizational skills

Verbal and written communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, communications, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description The External Affairs State Relations office has an outstanding opportunity for an Assistant to the Director / State Relations Associate to join their team. About this Opportunity Reporting to the Director of the State Relations, the Assistant to the Director / State Relations Associate is responsible for the day‑to‑day administrative functions, reporting state lobbying, assisting with event planning and coordination, drafting communications, and providing government relations support for the Director, Associate Director, and when appropriate, the University President, Provost, and other members of the university community. The State Relations Associate/Coordinator position is in contact between the UW community and the state government establishment, including legislative offices, the Governor's office, state agency officials, and higher education professional organizations. The position requires strong relationships with state legislative offices and an understanding of the legislative environment. The State Relations Associate/Coordinator must be self‑motivated; able to exercise independent judgment, decision making, and confidentiality. All with limited in‑person supervision as the Director and Associate Director are often out of the office on travel. The Office of State Relations is a small office responsible for advancing the University’s legislative agenda and priorities within state government. It is a fast‑paced environment that must navigate competing demands from campus, legislative offices, and state agencies. The office's four main areas of responsibility include facilitating strong, positive relationships with state government; advocating on behalf of the UW; educating the campus community about state government, policy, and engagement; and ensuring compliance with state advocacy and public disclosure laws. Competitive candidates will possess demonstrated initiative and use of sound judgment. Inherent to success in this position is the proven ability to remain adaptable and composed, demonstrate strong organizational skills, and work both independently and collaboratively. This role requires effectiveness in a dynamic environment, with the ability to engage professionally and exercise sound judgement with diverse stakeholders, including state legislators and University leadership. This position is an important member of the Office of State Relations team by providing support for the overall government relations effort on behalf of the University.

Key Responsibilities (1) Administrative Functions

Manage the Director's calendar and schedule meetings with internal and external stakeholders for the Director and Associate Director. Support coordination of University engagement in Olympia, on campus, or in legislative districts for UW leadership, faculty, and staff, including scheduling with legislative offices, state agency officials, and key stakeholders. Must navigate competing priorities using independent and informed judgement. Additionally, complete travel reimbursement and Procard verification documents of the Director and Associate Director, track invoices and expenses, and oversee office operations and supplies. (30%)

Key Responsibilities (2) Government Relations Support

Assist the Director and Associate Director with state lobbying activities, including researching and analyzing issues, tracking legislation, monitoring hearings and other briefings, preparing briefing materials, and engaging with a range of internal and external stakeholders on the University's priorities or legislative requests. Develop and maintain positive working relationships with legislative staff. Additionally, prepare quarterly and annual state lobbying reports and help ensure compliance with the state ethics requirements. (30%)

Key Responsibilities (3) Events Support

Support coordination and management of campus engagement with state government, including legislative briefings on university priorities, session advocacy days, receptions, legislative tours, and other similar events. (20%)

Key Responsibilities (4) Communications

Assist with the creation of communications materials such as briefing documents, talking points, and advocacy materials. Develop content and assist with populating the Office of State Relations website and UW in Your Community. Craft day-to‑day and project-specific correspondence to legislative offices, the UW community, and key stakeholders. (20%)

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, communications, or related field.
• Two or more years of professional experience supporting and working with upper-level management, preferably in public affairs, government relations, or legislative environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software (i.e., Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher)
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrates initiative with the ability to exercise independent judgement, decision making, and confidentiality.
• Skilled at managing priorities and navigating fast-moving, dynamic work environments.
• Strong organizational skills.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of Washington State legislative and regulatory processes.
• Experience interning or working for a state elected official or in state government.
• Knowledge of issues affecting academic research and/or public universities.
• Knowledge of Washington state public policy issues and geography.

Working Conditions

There are periods of intensive peaks that regularly require work beyond a normal work week. It is sometimes necessary to attend (in person or by phone or virtual conferences) evening or weekend meetings. Vacation requests are subject to the approval of the Director of State Relations and may be limited to periods when the legislature is not in session.

Travel between Seattle and Olympia for meetings is common.

On-site in Olympia during session; and option of Olympia, Seattle, or telework hybrid available during interim.

About the Team

The Office of External Affairs is responsible for influencing public policy and opinion, communicating about the university priorities, challenges and achievements, and strengthening the university's reputation and public perception. Units include the offices responsible for government and community relations at the federal, state, regional, tribal and Spokane/Eastern Washington levels, radio, executive and administrative staff. Please refer to our website for more information.

Office of External Affairs -- University of Washington Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

• Pay Range Minimum: $66,000.00 annual
• Pay Range Maximum: $72,000.00 annual
• Other Compensation: Benefits: For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
• Shift: First Shift (United States of America)
• Temporary or Regular? This is a regular position
• FTE (Full-Time Equivalent): 100.00%
• Union/Bargaining Unit: Not Applicable

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives -- on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail]. Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.