Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and April 23, 2021
Skills Identified by Members of Congress for
R. Eric Petersen
Selected Positions
Specialist in American National Government
Congressional Staff: Duties and Qualifications Identified by Members of Congress for Selected Positions
Updated May 2, 2025
(R46262)
Jump to Main Text of Report
Contents
- Identifying Job Advertisements
- Categorizing and Coding
- Concluding Observations
- Sample Position Expectations for Selected Job Titles
- Administrative Director
- Caseworker
- Caseworker/Field Representative
- Chief of Staff
- Communications Assistant
- Communications Director
- Communications Director, NEL
- Constituent Advocate
- Constituent Services Representative
- Correspondence Manager
- Counsel
- Deputy Communications Director
- Deputy Press Secretary
- Deputy Scheduler
- Deputy Scheduler/Assistant to Chief of Staff
- Digital Director
- Digital Director/Press Assistant
- District Director
- District Representative
- Executive Assistant
- Executive Assistant/Scheduler
- Executive Assistant/Scheduler, NEL
- Field, District, Outreach, or Regional Representative
- Legislative Aide
- Legislative Assistant
- Legislative Assistant, NEL
- Legislative Correspondent
- Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant
- Legislative Counsel
- Legislative Director, House
- Legislative Director, NEL
- Legislative Director, Senate
- Military Legislative Assistant
- Office Manager
- Outreach Representative
- Press Assistant
- Press Secretary
- Press Secretary/Digital Director
- Press/Digital Assistant
- Regional Director
- Regional Representative
- Scheduler
- Scheduler, NEL
- Scheduler/Office Manager
- Scheduler/Staff Assistant
- Scheduling Director
- Senior Legislative Assistant
- Special Assistant
- Speechwriter
- Staff Assistant
- Staff Assistant/Driver
- Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
Summary
The roles, duties, and activities of congressional staff are matters of ongoing interest to The roles, duties, and activities of congressional staff are matters of ongoing interest to
Members of Congress, congressional staff, and observers of Congress. Members of the Members of Congress, congressional staff, and observers of Congress. Members of the
House and Senate establish their own employment policies and practices for their House and Senate establish their own employment policies and practices for their
personal offices. It is arguably the case that within Member offices, a common group of activities is executed for personal offices. It is arguably the case that within Member offices, a common group of activities is executed for
which staff are necessary. Accordingly, a group of job advertisements for those positions from which staff are necessary. Accordingly, a group of job advertisements for those positions from
a number of several different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for position duties, as different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for position duties, as
wel well as staff as staff
skil s, skills, characteristics, experience, and other expectations. This report provides a set of characteristics, experience, and other expectations. This report provides a set of
41 widely expected job duties, widely expected job duties,
applicant applicant
skil sskills, characteristics, prior experiences, and other expectations based on a sample of ads placed by , characteristics, prior experiences, and other expectations based on a sample of ads placed by
Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and
March 2021February 2025 seeking staff in their offices for seeking staff in their offices for
3546 position titles, provided in Table 1.
position titles:
Caseworker
District, Field, or Regional Representative Press Secretary
Caseworker/Field Representative
Executive Assistant
Press Secretary/Digital Director
Chief Of Staff
Executive Assistant/Scheduler
Regional Director
Communications Director
Legislative Aide
Scheduler
Constituent Service Representative Legislative Assistant
Scheduler/Office Manager
Correspondence Manager
Legislative Correspondent
Senior Legislative Assistant
Deputy Press Secretary
Legislative Correspondent/Press Assistant Speechwriter
Deputy Scheduler
Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant Staff Assistant
Deputy Scheduler/
Legislative Counsel
Staff Assistant/Driver
Assistant to Chief of Staff Digital Director
Legislative Director
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
Digital Director/Press Assistant
Military Legislative Assistant
Systems Administrator
District Director
Press Assistant
Sample position expectations might assist Congress from multiple perspectives, including assessment of staffing Sample position expectations might assist Congress from multiple perspectives, including assessment of staffing
needs in Member offices; guidance in setting position expectations, qualifications, and experience when offices needs in Member offices; guidance in setting position expectations, qualifications, and experience when offices
need to hire staff; and informing current and potential congressional employees of position expectations. need to hire staff; and informing current and potential congressional employees of position expectations.
At the same time, categorizing congressional staff positions by position title relies on an assumption that similarly titled positions in House and Senate personal offices carry out the same tasks under essential y similar circumstances. Although personal offices may carry out similar activities, the assumption might be questionable given the
differences in staff resources in House and Senate offices, as wel as potential differences among offices of each chamber, particularly the Senate. Generalizations about staff roles and duties may also be limited Generalizations about staff roles and duties may be limited in some ways in some ways
due to the broad discretion Members have with regard to running their office activities. Variations from office to due to the broad discretion Members have with regard to running their office activities. Variations from office to
office, which might include differences in job duties, work schedules, office emphases, and other factors, may office, which might include differences in job duties, work schedules, office emphases, and other factors, may
limit the extent to which sample position expectations might match operational practic es in al congressional offices.
This is one of several CRS products on congressional staff. To access those products, see CRS Report R44688, Congressional Staff: CRS Products on Size, Pay, Job Tenure, and Duties.
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Contents
Identifying Job Advertisements for Congressional Staff Positions ........................................... 2
Categorizing and Coding Job Advertisements ...................................................................... 2
Concluding Observations ................................................................................................. 4
Sample Position Expectations ........................................................................................... 7
Caseworker .............................................................................................................. 7
Caseworker/Field Representative ................................................................................. 8
Chief of Staff ............................................................................................................ 9
Communications Director ......................................................................................... 10
Communications Director, “Senior Level” or “Not Entry Level” ..................................... 11
Constituent Services Representative ........................................................................... 12
Correspondence Manager ......................................................................................... 13
Deputy Press Secretary ............................................................................................. 14
Deputy Scheduler .................................................................................................... 15
Deputy Scheduler/Assistant to Chief of Staff ............................................................... 16
Digital Director/Press Assistant.................................................................................. 17
Digital Director ....................................................................................................... 18
District Director ...................................................................................................... 19
Executive Assistant .................................................................................................. 20
Executive Assistant/Scheduler ................................................................................... 21
Executive Assistant/Scheduler, “Not Entry Level” ........................................................ 22
Field, District, or Regional Representative................................................................... 23
Legislative Aide ...................................................................................................... 24
Legislative Assistant ................................................................................................ 25
Legislative Assistant, “Not Entry Level” ..................................................................... 26
Legislative Correspondent......................................................................................... 27
Legislative Correspondent/Press Assistant ................................................................... 28
Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant.................................................................... 29
Legislative Counsel ................................................................................................. 30
Legislative Director, House ....................................................................................... 31
Legislative Director “Senior Level,” or “Not Entry Level” ............................................. 32
Legislative Director, Senate....................................................................................... 33
Military Legislative Assistant .................................................................................... 34
Press Assistant ........................................................................................................ 35
Press Secretary ........................................................................................................ 36
Press Secretary/Digital Director ................................................................................. 37
Regional Director .................................................................................................... 38
Scheduler ............................................................................................................... 39
Scheduler, “Not Entry Level” .................................................................................... 40
Scheduler/Office Manager ........................................................................................ 41
Senior Legislative Assistant ...................................................................................... 42
Speechwriter........................................................................................................... 43
Staff Assistant ......................................................................................................... 44
Staff Assistant/Driver ............................................................................................... 45
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant ................................................................................... 46
Systems Administrator ............................................................................................. 47
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Tables
Table 1. Distribution of Job Advertisements Analyzed, by Category and Chamber..................... 5
Table 2. Acronyms Used in This Report .............................................................................. 6
Contacts
Author Information ....................................................................................................... 48
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limit the extent to which sample position expectations might match operational practices in all congressional offices.
Congressional employees are retained to perform public duties that include assisting ongressional employees are retained to perform public duties that include assisting
Members in official responsibilities in personal, committee, leadership, or administrative Members in official responsibilities in personal, committee, leadership, or administrative
C office settings. The roles, duties, and activities of congressional staff are matters of office settings. The roles, duties, and activities of congressional staff are matters of
ongoing interest to Members of Congress, congressional staff,ongoing interest to Members of Congress, congressional staff,
1 groups,2 and individuals,3 including those who raise concerns about congressional operations and observers outside of Congress. Most observers recognize that . Most observers recognize that
Congress does not function without staff,Congress does not function without staff,
4 but there is but there is
little5little systematic attention to what staff do, systematic attention to what staff do,
or what Members expect of them.or what Members expect of them.
In congressional offices, there may be interest in identifying Member expectations of In congressional offices, there may be interest in identifying Member expectations of
congressional staff duties by position from multiple perspectives, including assessment of staffing congressional staff duties by position from multiple perspectives, including assessment of staffing
needs in Member offices; guidance in setting position expectations, qualifications, and experience needs in Member offices; guidance in setting position expectations, qualifications, and experience
when offices choose to hire staff; and informing current and potential congressional employees of when offices choose to hire staff; and informing current and potential congressional employees of
position expectations. Members of the House and Senate position expectations. Members of the House and Senate
general ygenerally establish their own establish their own
employment policies and practices for their personalemployment policies and practices for their personal
offices.6, committee, or leadership offices.1 It is arguably the case that within It is arguably the case that within
Member offices, a common group of activities is executed for which staff with relevant Member offices, a common group of activities is executed for which staff with relevant
skil sets
skillsets and other qualifications are necessary. A body of publicly availableand other qualifications are necessary. A body of publicly available
job advertisements for staff job advertisements for staff
positions from positions from
a number ofseveral different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for
position duties, as position duties, as
wel well as staff as staff
skil sskills, characteristics, experience, and other needs., characteristics, experience, and other needs.
For 35 commonly used congressional staff position titles, this report provides a set of 41 sample position descriptions including
This report provides a set of widely expected job duties, applicant widely expected job duties, applicant
skil sskills, characteristics, prior , characteristics, prior
experiences, and other expectations based on experiences, and other expectations based on
information found in a sample of job advertisements a sample of ads placed by Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and placed by Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and
March 2021February 2025 seeking seeking
staff in their staff in their
officespersonal offices for 43 position titles. Table 1 provides. Table 1 lists the position titles and the frequency with which advertisements
for them appeared in the sample.
1 U.S. House of Representatives, Chief Administrative Officer, 2019 House of Representatives Compensation and
Diversity Study Report: House Overall Results, 2019, at https://www.house.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/documents/2019_house_compdiversitystudy_executivesummary.pdf.
2 See Democracy Fund, “ Principled Leadership & Effective Governance,” https://www.democracyfund.org/priorities; and William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, “Madison Initiative,” https://hewlett.org/strategy/madison-initiative/. 3 Alexander C. Furnas, “Legislative staff are spending an increasing amount of time on constituent services,” LegBranch, April 11, 2018, https://www.legbranch.org/2018-4-11-legislative-staff-are-spending-an-increasing-amount-of-time-on-constituent-services/; Jacob M. Montgomery and Brendan Nyhan, “ T he Effects of Congressional Staff Networks,” Journal of Politics, vol. 79, no. 3 (July 2017), pp. 745-761; Brian Alexander, “A framework for congressional staffing: a few thoughts from management consulting,” LegBranch, June 28, 2016, https://www.legbranch.org/2016-6-28-a-framework-for-congressional-staffing-a-few-thoughts-from-management-consulting/; and Anthony J. Madonna and Ian Ostrander, ”Getting the Congress You Pay For: Legislative Staffing and Organizational Capacity,” Paper prepared for presentation at the Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association, Washington, DC, August 28-September 1, 2014.
4 See, e.g., Josh McCrain, “Convincing evidence that congressional staff do, in fact, matter,” LegBranch, January 23, 2018, https://www.legbranch.org/2018-1-16-convincing-evidence-that-congressional-staff-do-in-fact-matter/; David E. Price, The Congressional Experience, 3rd ed. (Cambridge, MA: Westview Press, 2004), pp. 66 -69; and Michael J. Malbin, Unelected Representatives: Congressional Staff and the Future of Representative Governm ent (New York: Basic Books, Inc., 1980), pp. 3-7.
5 See Jesse M. Crosson, Alexander Furnas, and T imothy LaPira, Congress and Its Experts, Dataset Codebook, electronic dataset, University of Michigan, https://jessemcrossoncom.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/staff_data_codebook.pdf.
6 Members who hire staff in committee or leadership settings also have broad discretion regarding establishing and overseeing staff roles and duties. T hese are beyond the scope of this report.
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Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Identifying Job Advertisements for Congressional
Staff Positions
Data used in developing sample position expectations were taken from several the position titles.
Table 1. Position Titles Analyzed
|
Administrative Director
|
Digital Director/Press Assistant
|
Press Secretary
|
|
Caseworker
|
District Director
|
Press Secretary/Digital Director
|
|
Caseworker/Field Representative
|
Executive Assistant
|
Press/Digital Assistant
|
|
Chief Of Staff
|
Executive Assistant/Scheduler
|
Regional Director
|
|
Communications Assistant
|
Field Representative
|
Scheduler
|
|
Communications Director
|
Legislative Aide
|
Scheduler/Office Manager
|
|
Constituent Advocate
|
Legislative Assistant (LA)
|
Scheduler/Staff Assistant
|
|
Constituent Service Representative
|
Legislative Correspondent (LC)
|
Scheduling Director
|
|
Correspondence Manager
|
LC/Staff Assistant
|
Senior Legislative Assistant
|
|
Counsel
|
Legislative Counsel
|
Special Assistant
|
|
Deputy Communications Director
|
Legislative Director (LD)
|
Speechwriter
|
|
Deputy Press Secretary
|
Military Legislative Assistant
|
Staff Assistant
|
|
Deputy Scheduler
|
Office Manager
|
Staff Assistant/Driver
|
|
Deputy Scheduler/Assistant to Chief of Staff
|
Press Assistant
|
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
|
Digital Director
|
Source: CRS analysis of various sources.
Identifying Job Advertisements
Data used in developing sample position expectations primarily were taken from publicly available House and Senate sources, including the publicly available
sources, including the following, over the periods specified:
The House Employment Bulletin,House Employment Bulletin,
published weekly by the House Vacancy published weekly by the House Vacancy
Announcement and Placement Service (HVAPS) in the Announcement and Placement Service (HVAPS) in the
Human Resources Office
Office of the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)of the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
.7 Data were,2 collected from ads collected from ads
published between approximately January 2015 and published between approximately January 2015 and
March 2021.
TheFebruary 2025; and the Senate Employment Bulletin, Employment Bulletin,
published online by the Senate Employment Office, which is administered by the Senate Sergeant at Arms (SSAA),3 collected from ads that were not dated, appearing from approximately July 2016 to February 2025.4
Categorizing and Coding
More than 4,200 ads were collected from all sources. The ads represent a substantial number, butpublished online by the Senate “as a service to Senate
offices choosing to advertise staff vacancies.”8 Data were col ected from ads, which were not dated, appearing from approximately July 2016 to March 2021.
The House GOP Job and Resume Bank, which posts ads on behalf of the House
Republican Conference on Facebook.9 Ads were collected between approximately January 2017 and what appears to be its most recent posting in
November 2020. Other ads were col ected from the period between approximately December 2014 and January 2017 from the House GOP Job Bank web page on the website of Representative Virginia Foxx during part of her tenure as the House Republican Conference Secretary.
The Job Announcements Board hosted by Representative Steny Hoyer during
parts of his tenures as House majority leader and as House minority whip.10 Data were collected from ads posted between approximately December 2020 and March 2021, and January 2016 and December 2017.
Categorizing and Coding Job Advertisements
More than 1,950 ads were collected from al sources. While they represent a substantial number of ads posted by the sources consulted, these ads do not represent an exhaustive collection of do not represent an exhaustive collection of
public congressional employment solicitations. Duplicate ads resulting from posts to more than public congressional employment solicitations. Duplicate ads resulting from posts to more than
one source, and ads that appear to have been frequently reposted,one source, and ads that appear to have been frequently reposted,
11 were removed, as were ads5 were not considered. Ads for for
positions in congressional settings other than personal officespositions in congressional settings other than personal offices
,12 yielding 931 ads for positions in Member personal offices. Substantial y similar 6 were not considered, yielding a total of 1,377 ads available for analysis.
Identical and substantially similar position titles (e.g., deputy scheduler and state position titles (e.g., deputy scheduler and state
deputy scheduler) for which there were five or more ads were identified and grouped togetherdeputy scheduler) for which there were five or more ads were identified and grouped together
, as were related job titles (e.g., positions designated as . Four apparently related job titles—district, field, district, field,
outreach, or regional representativeor regional representative
—that that
had essential yhad essentially similar job duties and expectations similar job duties and expectations
) for which there were five or more substantial y similar ads, yielding a total of 763 ads were combined. Ads for the . Ads for the
35 identified position titlesidentified position titles
were were
further categorized if there were five or more ads that specified the advertised position as further categorized if there were five or more ads that specified the advertised position as
“"not entry level" (NEL) or other signifier of presumptive advanced status. The categorizednot 7 See U.S. House of Representatives, “Employment Information,” at https://www.house.gov/employment. 8 See U.S. Senate, “Employment Bulletin,” at https://www.senate.gov/employment/po/positions.htm. 9 See “House GOP Job and Resume Bank” at https://www.facebook.com/GopJobBank/. 10 Rep. Hoyer continues to host a job announcements board at https://www.majorityleader.gov/jobs. 11 Frequently reposted ads include those that appeared in sequential editions of the House Employment Bulletin, and ads for the same position posted by identifiable offices more than once over a period of six months.
12 Other congressional settings for which ads were collected include committee, leadership, officer, official, shared Member and committee, party conferences and caucuses, and House congressional member organizations.
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entry level” or other signifier of presumptive advanced status. The 763 ads were coded against a ads were coded against a
variety of variables within eight categories, including ad tracking information; ad details; position variety of variables within eight categories, including ad tracking information; ad details; position
responsibilities and responsibility areas; expected job responsibilities and responsibility areas; expected job
skil sskills, qualifications, and credentials; , qualifications, and credentials;
application materials; and office type.application materials; and office type.
13 The distribution of ads by job title and level is provided
in Table 1.
Solicitations of applicants for congressional staff appear to originate in a highly decentralized Solicitations of applicants for congressional staff appear to originate in a highly decentralized
manner. Means of identifying appropriate candidates might manner. Means of identifying appropriate candidates might
potential y potentially include reassigning staff include reassigning staff
within offices, placing ads in services that make them available by subscription,within offices, placing ads in services that make them available by subscription,
14 word of mouth, word of mouth,
and other nonpublic means of identifying potential applicants for congressional staff positions.and other nonpublic means of identifying potential applicants for congressional staff positions.
7 Consequently, it cannot be determined whether the dataset of ads analyzed in this report is Consequently, it cannot be determined whether the dataset of ads analyzed in this report is
representative of representative of
al all congressional employment solicitations.congressional employment solicitations.
In addition, the process by which candidates for some Member office senior staff positions15 are identified may not be public-
facing.
Based on information specified within the ads, Based on information specified within the ads,
most position titles were identified by position titles were identified by
at least one of the one of the
following five primary responsibility areas (some positions were identified by up to three following five primary responsibility areas (some positions were identified by up to three
responsibility areas):responsibility areas):
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight,Legislative, Policy, and Oversight,
Media, Messaging, and Speeches,Media, Messaging, and Speeches,
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service,Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service,
Office Administration and Support, andOffice Administration and Support, and
Staff Leadership.Staff Leadership.
For each position, at least one sample position description was created based on the coded data. For each position, at least one sample position description was created based on the coded data.
Information includes the most frequently occurring of the following: Information includes the most frequently occurring of the following:
primary responsibility areas; primary responsibility areas;
widely expected duties, typical y up to six of the most frequently occurring duties
specified in al ads for that position;
other potential duties, typical y up to six other duties mentioned in more than one
ad;
applicant information, including
characteristics, skil s, and knowledge and prior experience; and
other expectations.
13 A codebook and detailed explanation of the coding process are available to congressional offices upon request. 14 See, for example, Daybook, https://www.daybook.com/listings, or Indeed.com, https://www.indeed.com/q-Congressional-Assistant -l-Washington,-DC-jobs.html, among others.
15 For example, the ad sources used did not contain analyzable numbers of ads for Administrative Director or State Director positions in the Senate.
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Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Concluding Observations
Categorizing congressional staff positions by position title16 relies on an assumption that similarly titled positions in House and Senate personal offices carry out the same tasks under essential y similar circumstances. widely expected and other potential duties; expectations of applicants, including characteristics, skills, knowledge, prior experience, and other expectations.
Concluding Observations
The sample position descriptions provided in this report might provide The sample position descriptions provided in this report might provide
some insight into Member expectations of staff in their personal offices. At the same time, some some insight into Member expectations of staff in their personal offices. At the same time, some
of the findings might suggest that tasks and duties are aggregated in diverse ways within some of the findings might suggest that tasks and duties are aggregated in diverse ways within some
similarly titled positions. This may be due to operational differences among offices seeking staff, similarly titled positions. This may be due to operational differences among offices seeking staff,
or differences in the expectations of an employee in that position.or differences in the expectations of an employee in that position.
178 Some other titles suggest that Some other titles suggest that
congressional employing offices might assign a congressional employing offices might assign a
number of titles to substantial yrange of different titles to substantially similar groups of similar groups of
position expectations, duties, knowledgeposition expectations, duties, knowledge
, and skills.9 and skil s.18 Consequently, assumptions about job titles Consequently, assumptions about job titles
as a singular organizing concept might be questionable.as a singular organizing concept might be questionable.
Some explanation for the differences within or similarities among job titles might be explained in Some explanation for the differences within or similarities among job titles might be explained in
part by the range of approaches individual Members of Congress pursue in carrying out their part by the range of approaches individual Members of Congress pursue in carrying out their
official duties. This can result in variable employment practices from office to office. Other official duties. This can result in variable employment practices from office to office. Other
insight might come from differences in the scale and extent of activities due to the resources insight might come from differences in the scale and extent of activities due to the resources
made availablemade available
to operate the personal offices of Members of the House and Senators.to operate the personal offices of Members of the House and Senators.
19
10
These and other explanations may limitThese and other explanations may limit
the extent to which sample position expectations the extent to which sample position expectations
provided here match operational practices in provided here match operational practices in
al all congressional offices.
Sample Position Expectations for Selected Job Titles
Administrative Director
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Manage office administrative functions
Develop, implement, and monitor office budget
Oversee payroll
Onboard and offboard staff
|
Serve as office emergency coordinator
Staff education and training
Manage front office, correspondence program
Liaison between office and Senate, legislative branch support agencies
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
Strong organizational skills
Motivated
|
Detail oriented
Self-starter
|
Strong interpersonal skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Previous congressional administrative experience
Experience managing people and processes
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
Ties to state
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 6 ads (0 House, 6 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Caseworker
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Assist constituents to resolve issues with public agencies
Handle constituent casework involving 1-4 agencies
Answer casework correspondence
Communicate with constituents, government agencies
Act as community representative for Member
Assess casework, community activities for legislative action
|
Update Member and district director on local issues
Learn federal agency casework procedures
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Patience
Motivation
|
Sense of humor
|
Manage multiple tasks
Friendly, personable, pleasant
|
Work independently
Think broadly about potential resolutions
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Casework
Experience related to casework type (immigration, tax, financial sector, healthcare, military, veterans' issues, etc.)
Federal, state, or local government
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Bilingual, typically Spanish
Access to car, driving
Ties to state or district
Long hours, nights, weekends
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 28 ads (26 House, 2 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Caseworker/Field Representative
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Assist constituents with problems, concerns
Work with staff on casework and outreach efforts
Represent Member at meetings, events, appearances
Monitor activities, concerns, issues in district
Drive, travel throughout district
|
Staff Member at events, appearances
Provide administrative assistance
Answer phones
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
Outgoing
Assertive
|
Mature
Motivated
Sense of humor
|
Work well with others
Thorough
Organized
|
Exercise discretion, tact
Work independently
Handle stress
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
State, local, and national government, agencies
Event planning
Social work
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Have car and driver's license
Bilingual
Flexible hours including nights and weekends
Ties to/broad knowledge of district
Work environment typicallycongressional offices.
16 A Senator may establish position titles in his or her office by written notification to the disbursing office of the Senate, 2 U.S.C. 4575(d)(1)(C)(2). No similar explicit authority for a Member of the House was identified. 17 For examples, see differences in expectations between some positions and identically titled positions designated as “Not Entry Level” or “Senior,” and House and Senate Legislative Directors, or similarities between Legislative Assistant and Military Legislative Assistant, or Legislativ e Aide, Legislative Assistant, and Legislative Correspondent.
18 See, e.g., Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant and Legislative Correspondent/Press Assistant, or Digital Director, Press Secretary, and Press Secretary/Digital Director, among others.
19 T he smallest Senate personal office typically has twice the number of staff as the maximum staffing levels authorized for House Member offices, which is higher than the actual level of staffing in that chamber. For further discussion see CRS Report RL30064, Congressional Salaries and Allowances: In Brief, by Ida A. Brudnick; CRS Report R43946, Senate Staff Levels in Mem ber, Com m ittee, Leadership, and Other Offices, 1977-2020, by R. Eric Petersen; and CRS Report R43947, House of Representatives Staff Levels in Mem ber, Com m ittee, Leadership, and Other Offices, 1977 -
2016, by R. Eric Petersen and Amber Hope Wilhelm.
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Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Table 1. Distribution of Job Advertisements Analyzed, by Category and Chamber
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
Media, Messaging, and Speeches
Ads
H
S
Ads
H
S
Legislative Aide
12
6
6
Communications Director
54
50
4
Communications Director
Legislative Assistant (LA)
107
77
30
“Senior Level,” “Not Entry Level”
18
18
0
LA, “Not Entry Level”
26
20
6
Deputy Press Secretary
8
0
8
Legislative Counsel
6
4
2
Digital Director/Press Assistant
5
3
2
Legislative Director (LD), House
24
24
0
Digital Director
12
2
10
LD, “Senior Level,” “Not Entry Level”
6
6
0
Press Assistant
18
10
8
LD, Senate
5
0
5
Press Secretary
37
31
6
Military Legislative Assistant (MLA)
12
9
3
Press Secretary/Digital Director
5
5
0
Senior Legislative Assistant (SLA)
13
12
1
Speechwriter
10
0
10
Legislative Correspondent (LC)
54
34
20
LC/Press Assistant
7
7
0
LC/Press Assistant
7
7
0
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
5
5
0
LC/Staff Assistant
15
14
1
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and
Service
Office Administration and Support
Ads
H
S
Ads
H
S
Caseworker
12
10
2
Deputy Scheduler
7
0
7
Deputy Scheduler/
Caseworker/Field Representative
8
8
0
Assistant to Chief of Staff
7
0
7
Constituent Services Representative
6
5
1
Executive Assistant
7
5
2
Correspondence Manager
11
0
11
Executive Assistant/Scheduler
15
14
1
District Director
7
7
0
Executive Assistant/Scheduler
9
9
0
“Not Entry Level”
Field, District, or Regional Representative
14
11
3
Scheduler
48
42
6
Regional Director
5
0
5
Scheduler, “Not Entry Level”
8
7
1
LC
54
34
20
Scheduler/Office Manager
11
11
0
LC/Staff Assistant
15
14
1
Staff Assistant/Driver
7
3
4
Staff Assistant
84
67
16
Systems Administrator
10
0
10
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
5
5
0
LC/Staff Assistant
15
14
1
Staff Assistant
84
67
16
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
5
5
0
Staff Leadership
Ads
H
S
Ads H
S
Chief of Staff
10
8
2
LD, Senate
5
0
5
Congressional Research Service
5
Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Source: CRS analysis of selected ads seeking congressional staff, various sources, December 2014 -March 2021. Positions with more than one area of responsibility are shown in italics.
Table 2. Acronyms Used in This Report
Acronym
Term
CAO
Chief Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives
CMS
Correspondence Management System (e.g., ComputerWorks, Fireside21, Housecal , iConstituent, Leidos)
HTML
HyperText Markup Language
HVAPS
House Vacancy Announcement and Placement Service
IT
Information technology
LA
Legislative Assistant
LC
Legislative Correspondent
LD
Legislative Director
MLA
Military Legislative Assistant
MRA
Members’ Representational Al owance
MS
Microsoft, typical y office productivity software and apps
SLA
Senior Legislative Assistant
Source: CRS.
Congressional Research Service
6
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Sample Position Expectations
Caseworker20
Constituent Communications, Outreach,
and Service
Ads
12 (10 House, 2 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Assist constituents to resolve issues with public agencies
Update Member and district director on local issues
Handle constituent casework involving 1-4 agencies
Learn federal agency casework procedures
Answer casework correspondence Communicate with constituents, government agencies Act as community representative for Member Assess casework, community activities for legislative action
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Patience
Manage multiple tasks
Motivation
Interpersonal skil s, friendly, personable, pleasant
Sense of humor
Work independently Think broadly about potential case resolutions
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Casework
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Experience related to casework type (immigration, tax,
Bilingual, typical y Spanish
financial sector, healthcare, military, veterans’ issues, etc.)
Access to car, driving
Federal, state, or local government
Ties to state or district Long hours, nights, weekends Work environment typical y described as high pressure, team-based, col aborative
20 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Caseworker/Field Representative21
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
8 (8 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Assist constituents with problems, concerns
Staff Member at events, appearances
Work with staff on casework and outreach efforts
Provide administrative assistance
Represent Member at meetings, events, appearances
Answer phones
Monitor activities, concerns, issues in district Drive, travel throughout district
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic
Work wel with others
Outgoing
Thorough
Assertive
Organized
Mature
Exercise discretion, tact
Motivated
Work independently
Sense of humor
Handle stress
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
State, local, and national government, agencies
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Event planning
Have car and driver’s license
Social work
Bilingual Flexible hours including nights and weekends Ties to/broad knowledge of district Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
21 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 11 ads (11 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Chief of Staff
|
Staff Leadership
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Serve as Member's most senior aide or advisor
Advise Member on strategic priorities and policy decisions
Develop and implement all policy objectives, strategies, and Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
8
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Chief of Staff22
Staff Leadership
Ads
10 (8 House, 2 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Serve as Member’s most senior aide or advisor
Coordinate Member activities with congressional
Advise Member on strategic priorities and policy decisions
leadership and committee offices
Develop and implement al policy objectives, strategies, and Act as liaison between Member and constituents, operating plans for the office, in consultation with relevant
the Administration, and external stakeholders
legislative, communications, constituent service, operating plans for the office, in consultation with relevant legislative, communications, constituent service, support, support,
Mentor staff
and other staffand other staff
Manage MemberManage Member
’s 's offices and operationsoffices and operations
Manage seniorManage senior
staff, monitorstaff, monitor
DC and state staff (Senate ads DC and state staff (Senate ads
only)only)
Supervise up to 18 Supervise up to 18
ful full-time-time
staffers in DC and district staffers in DC and district
offices (House ads only)offices (House ads only)
Oversee al
Oversee all personnel matters:personnel matters:
staff reviews; salary staff reviews; salary
decisions; and hiring (House ads only)decisions; and hiring (House ads only)
Manage the Manage the
MRAMember Representational Allowance and office budget (House ads only) and office budget (House ads only)
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Strong political instincts
Strategic thinking
Hard worker
Balance multiple tasks
Energetic, enthusiastic
Organized
Creativity
Attention to detail, accuracy
Sense of humor
Work wel with others
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Senior congressional staff role
Strong, clear written and verbal communications
Management experience
skil s
Hil or other political experience
Work environment typical y
Coordinate Member activities with congressional leadership, committee, and other offices
Act as liaison between Member and constituents, the Administration, and external stakeholders
Mentor staff
Building, managing, and mentoring teams (Senate ads only)
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Strong political instincts
Hard worker
Energetic, enthusiastic
|
Creativity
Sense of humor
|
Strategic thinking
Balance multiple tasks
Organized
|
Attention to detail, accuracy
Work well with others
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Senior congressional staff role
Management experience
Hill or other political experience
Thorough knowledge of legislative process and chamber rules
Up to 5 years relevant experience
|
Strong, clear written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Work hours typicallyteam-based, col aborative
Thorough knowledge of legislative process and chamber rules
Work hours typical y include long hours, weekends include long hours, weekends
Up to 5 years relevant experience
State or district ties State or district ties
general ygenerally preferred preferred
but not required
Based on CRS analysis of 15 ads (13 House, 2 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "but not required
22 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Communications Director23
Media, Mass Communications
Messaging, and Speeches
Ads
54 (50 House, 4 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Craft and implement overal communications strategy
Outreach to media organizations, reporters
Write in numerous formats including press releases, op-
Pitch stories
eds, talking points, newsletters, speeches, social media
Provide messaging guidance to staff
Act as spokesperson, local and national media contact
Monitor news of interest to the office
Prepare/brief Member for interviews
Handle portfolio of 1-4 issues
Manage office website, social media, other digital content Organize media events
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Strong political instincts
Organized
Creativity
Strategic thinking
Sense of humor
Balance multiple tasks
Energetic, enthusiastic
Attention to detail, accuracy
Hard worker
Work wel with others Digital media skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Communications, journalism, public relations
Strong written and verbal communications skil s Knowledge of legislative process Media contacts Familiarity with computer software, e.g., MS applications, social media platforms State or district ties May supervise Press Secretary, Press Assistant Submission of various writing samples Work environment typical yCategorizing and Coding."
Communications Assistant
|
Media, Mass Communications Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Media monitoring, press and video clippings
Draft, edit media advisories, press releases
Create social media content
|
Draft Member talking points
Draft constituent mail
Manage press interns
Website management
Produce graphic and video content
Photography, shooting video
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
None stated
|
Multitasking
|
Organized
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Up to four years press, digital, or communications experience
Previous congressional or campaign experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
Long hours, evening and weekend work
Bilingual, typically Spanish
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 12 ads (11 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Communications Director
|
Media, Mass Communications Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Craft and implement overall communications strategy
Write in numerous formats including press releases, op-eds, talking points, newsletters, speeches, social media
Act as spokesperson, local and national media contact
Prepare/brief Member for interviews
Manage office website, social media, other digital content
Organize media events
|
Outreach to media organizations, reporters
Pitch stories
Provide messaging guidance to staff
Monitor news of interest to the office
Handle portfolio of 1-4 issues
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Strong political instincts
Creativity
Sense of humor
|
Energetic, enthusiastic
Hard worker
|
Organized
Strategic thinking
Balance multiple tasks
|
Attention to detail, accuracy
Work well with others
Digital media skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Communications, journalism, public relations
On-the-record experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Knowledge of legislative process
Media contacts
Familiarity with computer software, e.g., applications, social media platforms
State or district ties
May supervise Press Secretary, Press Assistant
Submission of various writing samples
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 76 ads (69 House, 7 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
23 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
10
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Communications Director, “Senior Level” or “Not Entry Level”24 Categorizing and Coding."
Communications Director, NEL
Media, Mass Communications
Messaging, and Speeches
Ads
18 (18 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Craft and implement overal communications strategy
Pitch stories
Write
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Craft and implement overall communications strategy
Write in numerous formats including press releases,in numerous formats including press releases,
op-op-
eds, talking points, newsletters,eds, talking points, newsletters,
speeches, socialspeeches, social
media media
Act as spokesperson,Act as spokesperson,
local and national media contactlocal and national media contact
Prepare/briefPrepare/brief
Member for interviewsMember for interviews
Manage office website,Manage office website,
social media,social media,
other digital contentother digital content
Organize media eventsOrganize media events
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Creativity
Attention to detail, accuracy
Energetic, enthusiastic
Organized
Strong political instincts
Balance multiple tasks
Sense of humor
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
On-the-record experience, 1-2 years
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Hil experience, 2-5 years
Media contacts May supervise Communications
Pitch stories
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Creativity
Energetic, enthusiastic
|
Strong political instincts
Sense of humor
|
Attention to detail, accuracy
Organized
|
Balance multiple tasks
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
On-the-record experience, 1-2 years
Hill experience, 2-5 years
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Media contacts
May supervise Communications Staff, Press Staff, Press
Assistant, PressAssistant, Press
Secretary,Secretary,
Social Media AssistantSocial Media Assistant
SubmissionSubmission
of various writing samplesof various writing samples
WorkWork
environment environment
typical ytypically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 76 ads (73 House, 3 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
24 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
11
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Constituent Services Representative25
Constituent Communications,
Outreach, and Service
Ads
6 (5 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Handle casework and related cal s, correspondence
Plan and execute outreach events
Work with federal or state entities to resolve
Represent Member
casework
Support Member events
Provide office support, sort mail, order supplies
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Good political instincts, judgement
Discretion
Energetic
Organized
Self-starter
Work wel with others
Adaptable
Able to balance multiple tasks
Hard worker
Attention to detail
Motivated
Reliability
Sense of humor
Work independently
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Casework, public service, customer service, 0-5 years
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Bachelor’s degree
Work flexible schedule, long days, weekends Ties to state or district Work environment typical yCategorizing and Coding." "NEL" indicates the advertised positions on which the description is based were designated as "not entry level," or other signifier of presumptive advanced status.
Constituent Advocate
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Serve as liaison between constituents and federal agencies
Represent Member in district meetings and events
Identify local problems that might be solved by federal action
Outreach to stakeholder groups
Handle constituent casework involving up to 5 agencies
|
Update Member and district director on local issues
Learn federal agency casework procedures
Process mail
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Enthusiasm
Optimistic
|
Sense of humor
|
Attention to detail
Deal effectively with different personalities
|
Time management
Exercise political judgment
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Familiarity with federal agencies and programs
Previous casework, advocacy, legal, or social work experience
Customer service experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Bilingual, typically Spanish
Access to car, driving
Ties to, or knowledge of, state or district
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 7 ads (4 House, 3 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Constituent Services Representative
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Handle casework and related calls, correspondence
Work with federal or state entities to resolve casework
Provide office support, sort mail, order supplies
|
Plan and execute outreach events
Represent Member
Support Member events
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Good political instincts
Energetic
Self-starter
Adaptable
|
Hard worker
Motivated
Sense of humor
|
Discretion
Organized
Work well with others
Balance multiple tasks
|
Attention to detail
Reliability
Work independently
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Casework, public service, customer service, 0-5 years
Bachelor's degree
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work flexible schedule, long days, weekends
Ties to state or district
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
25 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 23 ads (15 House, 8 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Correspondence Manager
Constituent Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
12
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Correspondence Manager26
Constituent Communications,
Communications, Outreach, and Service
Ads
11 (0 House, 11 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Duties
Other Potential Duties
Duties
Coordinate with office leadership, LCs to produce, Coordinate with office leadership, LCs to produce,
Provide CMS reports, system maintenance
deliver deliver substantive, timelysubstantive, timely
written responses to constituent inquiries
Draft, edit outgoing correspondence
Oversee drafting and approval of condolence and congratulatory letters
Provide CMS reports, system maintenance
Train interns, LCs, and Staff Assistants in correspondence processes
written responses to
Train interns, LCs, and Staff Assistants in
constituent inquiries
correspondence processes
Draft, edit outgoing correspondence
Manage constituent contact listsManage constituent contact lists
Oversee drafting and approval of condolence and
Maintain correspondence records
congratulatory letters
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Proactive, takes initiative
Time management skil s Highly organized Ability to work independently Handle multiple tasks, projects
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Experience with constituent
Maintain correspondence records
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Proactive
|
Takes initiative
|
Time-management skills
Highly organized
|
Can work independently
Handle multiple tasks, projects
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Experience with correspondence management software (CMS) systems
Hill correspondence experience, up to 3 years
Computer skills
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Demonstrated ability to use technology to streamline administrative processes
Generally a position for experienced staff
"Self-described perfectionists are strongly encouraged to apply."
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 8 ads (1 House, 7 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Counsel
|
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Follow issue portfolio of 3-9 policy areas
Develop and advance legislation
Monitor legislative developments
Advise on committee policy and oversight matters
|
Supervise legislative correspondent
Advise on floor procedure
Draft memos and talking points
Advise on nominations (Senate only)
Provide guidance on internal office matters
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Proactive
|
Enthusiastic
|
Strategic thinking
Can work independently
|
Can work within a team
Manage multiple projects
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Experience advising a Member
Experience advancing policy proposals
Law degree generally required
0-5 years policy experience, various issues
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically management software
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
(CMS) systems, e.g., IQ, InterTrac, VOICE, etc.
Demonstrated ability to use technology to streamline
Hil correspondence experience, up to 3 years
administrative processes
Computer skil s
General y a position for experienced staff “Self-described perfectionists are strongly encouraged to apply.” Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
26 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
Admission to a bar preferred
State ties or familiarity preferred, not required
|
Based on CRS analysis of 14 ads (1 House, 13 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Deputy Communications Director
|
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Work with Communications Director to develop and implement strategic communications plans, messaging strategies
Assist in managing communications team
Drive a press narrative centered on Senator's message(s)
|
Build, maintain relationships with media outlets
Draft quotes, op-eds, talking points, and other written materials
Prep Member for interviews
Coordinate press conferences, other media events
Build/strengthen Member's profile in state
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
|
Takes initiative
|
Attention to detail
|
Deadline focused
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
"Several" years of experience on Hill or in executive branch press environments
Knowledge of national press
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
State ties
Work outside standard business hours
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 5 ads (0 House, 5Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
13
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Deputy Press Secretary27
Media, Mass Communications,
Messaging, and Speeches
Ads
8 (0 House, 8 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
Deputy Press Secretary
|
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Writing in numerous formats including press releases,Writing in numerous formats including press releases,
Maintain office website
op-eds, talking points, newsletters,op-eds, talking points, newsletters,
speeches,speeches,
social media
Maintain social media social media
content
Schedule media interviews with Senator
Maintain office website
Staff Senator at events
Compile press clips and media mentions
Compile, maintain media contact lists
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Motivated
Ambitious
|
Hard worker
Willing to learn, add responsibilities
|
Attention to detail, accuracy
Manage multiple tasks
|
Resourceful
Operate quickly, efficiently
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Work with office productivity software, social mediaplatforms
Communications, media, 2-5 years
Campaign media experience
Strong written and verbal communications skills
State or regional ties
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (0 House, 9 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "
Staff Senator at events
Maintain social media content
Compile press clips and media mentions
Schedule media interviews with Senator
Compile, maintain media contact lists
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Motivated
Accuracy, attention to detail
Ambitious
Manage multiple tasks
Hard worker
Resourceful
Wil ing to learn, add responsibilities
Operate quickly, efficiently
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Work with office productivity software, social media
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
platforms
State or regional ties
Communications, media, 2-5 years
Work environment typical y described as high
Campaign media experience
pressure, team-based, col aborative
27 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
14
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Deputy Scheduler28 Categorizing and Coding."
Deputy Scheduler
Office Administration and Support
Ads
7 (0 House, 7 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Sort, track, and respond to SenatorSort, track, and respond to Senator
’'s state invitationss state invitations
Greet Senator’s meeting attendees
Assist
Assist other staff to execute Senatorother staff to execute Senator
’s 's daily scheduledaily schedule
Maintain historical record of Senator’s schedule
Maintain Senator’s contact data
Schedule rooms, facilities
Arrange, book travel for Senator
Organize constituent events
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic
Attention to detail
Motivated
Highly organized
Adaptable
Exercise discretion
Sound judgement
Personable, courteous Trustworthy
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil experience preferred
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Knowledge of Senate operations, schedules
Flexible hours Work environment typical y
Maintain Senator's contact data
Arrange, book travel for Senator
Greet Senator's meeting attendees
Maintain historical record of Senator's schedule
Schedule rooms, facilities
Organize constituent events
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
Motivated
|
Adaptable
Sound judgement
|
Attention to detail
Highly organized
Exercise discretion
|
Personable, courteous
Trustworthy
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Hill experience preferred
Knowledge of Senate operations, schedules
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Flexible hours
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
28 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 14 ads (0 House, 14 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
15
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Deputy Scheduler/Assistant to Chief of Staff29
Staff
Office Administration and Support
Ads
7 (0 House, 7 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Provide administrativeProvide administrative
and staffing support to Schedulerand staffing support to Scheduler
Handle Chief of Staff correspondence
Plan, maintain Chief of StaffPlan, maintain Chief of Staff
’'s calendars calendar
Prepare correspondence for signature
Drive
Drive Senator on occasionSenator on occasion
Provide executive secretarial support
Organize, vet, respond to invitationsOrganize, vet, respond to invitations
Facilitate projects of the Senator or officeFacilitate projects of the Senator or office
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Adaptable
Detail oriented, thorough
Proactive
Highly organized
Energetic
Strong sense of discretion
Sound judgement, instincts
Personable, pleasant, courteous Balance multiple tasks, projects
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Scheduling, 1-2 years
Strong written and verbal communications skil s Maintain confidentiality Ability to exercise discretion at al times Own an American-made car State ties Work environment typical y
Handle Chief of Staff correspondence
Prepare correspondence for signature
Provide executive secretarial support
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Adaptable
Proactive
|
Energetic
Sound judgement, instincts
|
Detail oriented, thorough
Highly organized
Strong sense of discretion
|
Personable, pleasant, courteous
Balance multiple tasks, projects
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Scheduling, 1-2 years
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Maintain confidentiality
Ability to always exercise discretion
Own an American-made car
State ties
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
29 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 8 ads (0 House, 8 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Digital Director
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
16
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Digital Director/Press Assistant30
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
5 (3 House, 2 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Duties
Other Potential Duties
Create audio, graphic, and video content
Compile daily news clips
Draft newsletters, social media, press releases, op-eds,
Monitor social media data, analytics
talking points, speeches Manage social media strategy, office accounts, website
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Creative
Work wel with others
Poise
Attention to details
Sound judgement
Design skil s Digital media skil s Research skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Experience with various social media platforms, HTML
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Knowledge of chamber operations, procedures
Communications background
Experience designing audio, graphic, video content
Experience with online organizing Work environment typical y Duties
|
Manage office social media accounts
Create social media content, written, graphic, and video
Maintain office websites
|
Plan and execute media events
Track and analyze various media platform metrics
Grow office social media audience
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
Outgoing
|
Sound judgement
|
Digital media skills
Well organized
Quick thinking
|
Resourceful
Problem-solving abilities
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Broadcast communications, journalism, public relations
Knowledge of Senate rules, procedures
Experience with photography; creating audio, graphic, and video content; and related software
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Position is generally not entry level, up to 3 years' experience expected
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
30 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 30 ads (5 House, 25 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Digital Director/Press Assistant
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
17
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Digital Director31
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Messaging, and Speeches
12 (2 House, 10 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Manage office social media accounts
Plan and execute media events
Create social media content, written, graphic, and video
Track and analyze various media platform metrics
Maintain office websites
Grow office social media audience
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic, outgoing
Digital media skil s
Sound judgement
Wel organized Quick thinking Resourceful Problem solving abilities
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Broadcast communications, journalism, public relations
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Knowledge of Senate rules, procedures
Position is general y not entry level, up to 3 years’
Experience with photography; creating audio, graphic,
experience expected
and video content; and related software
Work environment typical y
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Create audio, graphic, and video content
Draft newsletters, social media, press releases, op-eds,talking points, speeches
Manage social media strategy, office accounts, website
Compile daily news clips
Monitor social media data, analytics
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Creative
Poise
|
Sound judgement
|
Work well with others
Attention to details
Design skills
|
Digital media skills
Research skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Experience with various social media platforms
Knowledge of chamber operations, procedures
Experience designing audio, graphic, video content
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Communications background
Experience with online organizing
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 7 ads (5 House, 2 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
31 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
18
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
District Director32
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Messaging, and Speeches
7 (7 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Oversee district office operations
Oversee district office budget
Develop outreach and constituent service strategies
Manage Member schedule with district scheduler
Represent Member in meetings and events Supervise district staff, plan and assign work
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Strong work ethic
Management, leadership skil s
Political instincts
Manage multiple tasks
Enthusiastic, outgoing
Attention to detail Interpersonal skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Management, supervisory experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Strategic planning
May supervise district staff Connections to the district Work environment typical yCategorizing and Coding."
District Director
Office Administration and SupportConstituent Communications, Outreach, and Service,Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Oversee district office operations
Develop outreach and constituent service strategies
Represent Member in meetings and events
Supervise district staff, plan, and assign work
|
Oversee district office budget
Manage Member schedule with district scheduler
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Strong work ethic
Political instincts
|
Enthusiastic, outgoing
|
Management, leadership skills
Manage multiple tasks
|
Attention to detail
Interpersonal skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Management, supervisory experience
Strategic planning
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
May supervise district staff
Connections to the district
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
32 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 15 ads (15 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
District Representative
See "Field, District, Outreach, or Regional Representative"
Executive Assistant
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Develop, manage Member's schedule
Track meeting and event invitations
Oversee office budget with Chief of Staff
Compose correspondence for Member
|
Staff or drive Member
Assist Scheduler with meeting, event invitations
Coordinate meetings travel, training, events
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Assertive
Good work ethic
Energetic, outgoing
|
Adaptable
Patience
Poise
|
Discretion
Detail oriented
Great organizational skills
|
Personable, friendly, professional manner
Flexibility
Able to prioritize
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Scheduling
Administrative, executive support
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Knowledge of software, Correspondence Management Systems packages
Knowledge of legislative process, calendar
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
19
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Executive Assistant33
Ads
Office Administration and Support
7 (5 House, 2 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Develop, manage Member’s schedule
Staff or drive Member
Track meeting and event invitations
Assist Scheduler with meeting, event invitations
Oversee office budget with Chief of Staff
Coordinate meetings travel, training, events
Compose correspondence for Member
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Assertive
Discretion
Good work ethic
Detail oriented
Energetic, outgoing
Excel ent organizational skil s
Adaptable
Personable, friendly, professional manner
Patience
Flexibility
Poise
Able to prioritize
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Scheduling
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Administrative, executive support
Knowledge of MS software, CMS packages Knowledge of legislative process, calendar Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
33 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (5 House, 4 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Executive Assistant/Scheduler
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Coordinate and maintain Member's daily schedule
Greet constituents and other visitors
Maintain Member's calendar
Monitor daily and longer-term office schedules
Perform office management duties
Recommend invitations to accept or decline
|
Assist in managing office budget
Compile briefing materials
Drive the Member—have access to a car
Make travel arrangements for Member, other staff
Staff the Member during the work day
Write recommendations and other correspondence
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic, enthusiastic
Poise
Sound political instincts, judgement
Patience
|
Assertive
Self-starter, proactive, take initiative
Adaptable, flexible
Hard worker
|
Friendly, personable, pleasant
Organized
Professional manner
Work independently
|
Work well with others
Collaborative
Time-management skills
Attention to detail
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
None stated
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
20
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Executive Assistant/Scheduler34
Ads
Office Administration and Support
15 (14 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Coordinate and maintain Member’s daily schedule
Assist in managing office budget
Greet constituents and other visitors
Compile briefing materials
Maintain Member’s calendar
Drive the Member—have access to a car
Monitor daily and longer-term office schedules
Make travel arrangements for Member, other staff
Perform office management duties
Staff the Member during the work day
Recommend invitations to accept or decline
Write recommendations and other correspondence
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic, enthusiastic
Interpersonal skil s, friendly, personable, pleasant
Poise
Organized
Sound political instincts, judgement
Professional manner
Patience
Work independently
Assertive
Work wel with others, col aboratively, cooperatively
Self-starter, proactive, take initiative
Time management skil s
Adaptable, flexible
Attention to detail
Hard Worker
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
None stated
Strong written and verbal communications skil s Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
34 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 22 ads (22 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Executive Assistant/Scheduler, NEL
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Coordinate and maintain Member's daily schedule
Make travel arrangements for Member
Maintain Member's calendar
Work closely with Chief of Staff
|
Evaluate invitations to accept or decline
Maintain office records
Manage Member's correspondence
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Professional manner
Friendly, personable, pleasant
|
Sound political instincts, judgement
Sense of humor
|
Organized
Discretion
|
Detail oriented
Manage multiple tasks
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Hill experience
At least 1 year of scheduling experience
Full-time executive assistant experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
State or district ties
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
21
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Executive Assistant/Scheduler, “Not Entry Level”35
Ads
Office Administration and Support
9 (9 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Coordinate and maintain Member’s daily schedule
Evaluate invitations to accept or decline
Make travel arrangements for Member
Maintain office records
Maintain Member’s calendar
Manage Member’s correspondence
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Professional manner
Organized
Interpersonal Skil s, friendly, personable, pleasant
Discretion
Sound political instincts, judgement
Detail oriented
Sense of humor
Manage multiple tasks
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
At least 1 year of scheduling experience
State or district ties
Ful -time executive assistant experience
Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
35 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (8 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding." "NEL" indicates the advertised positions on which the description is based were designated as "not entry level," or other signifier of presumptive advanced status.
|
Field, District, Outreach, or Regional Representative
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Represent Member before constituents, local government, groups, businesses, civic organizations, and agencies
Attend meetings and events throughout assigned areas
Act as liaison to local and state government
Monitor issues, opinions, and concerns in assigned areas
Brief Member about events and issues
|
Draft casework, other correspondence
Plan and execute community outreach projects, events
Provide logistical support for district events, meetings
Staff Member for events, appearances in assigned area
Provide casework intake, support, resolution
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Flexibility
Motivation
Strong work ethic
|
Friendly, outgoing
Patience
Sense of humor
|
Manage multiple tasks, projects
Organizational skills
Work independently
Problem-solving abilities
|
Discreet, tactful
Learn quickly
Public speaking
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Knowledge of jurisdiction (state, region, district)
Knowledge of congressional practices, operations
Advocacy, community development, nonprofit, orgovernment work
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Long, irregular hours and nights, weekends, holidays
May supervise interns
Awareness of issues of interest to the Member
Ties to the state or district
Driving the Member
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
22
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Field, District, or Regional Representative36
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
14 (11 House, 3 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Represent Member before constituents, local groups,
Draft casework, other correspondence
businesses, civic organizations, and agencies
Plan and execute community outreach projects,
Attend meetings and events throughout assigned areas
events
Act as liaison to local and state government
Provide logistical support for district events, meetings
Monitor issues, opinions, and concerns in assigned areas
Staff Member for events, appearances in assigned area
Brief Member about events and issues
Provide casework intake, support, resolution
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Flexibility
Manage multiple tasks, projects
Motivation
Good organizational skil s
Strong work ethic
Work independently
Friendly, outgoing
Problem-solving abilities
Patience
Discreet, tactful
Sense of humor
Learn quickly
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Knowledge of jurisdiction (state, region, district)
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Knowledge of congressional practices, operations
Long, irregular hours, nights, weekends, holidays
Advocacy, community development, nonprofit, or
May supervise interns
government work
Awareness of issues of interest to the Member Ties to the state or district Driving the Member Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 34 ads (28 House, 6 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
36 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
23
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Aide37
Ads Categorizing and Coding."
Legislative Aide
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
12 (6 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Draft constituent correspondenceDraft constituent correspondence
, legislation, memos
legislation, memos
Oversee office mail program
Meet with constituents, agency staff,Meet with constituents, agency staff,
other stakeholdersother stakeholders
Maintain policy portfolio of 1-3 issues
Assist with preparations for hearings and meetings
Conduct research and analysis
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic
Ability to prioritize
Enthusiastic
Attention to detail, accuracy Balance multiple projects, tasks Organizational skil s Research skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil experience, up to 3 years
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Issue area-specific experience as noted
Work environment typical y
Assist with preparations for hearings and meetings
Handle 1-6 policy portfolios
Oversee office mail program
Conduct research and analysis
Write policy memos, talking points
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
Enthusiastic
|
Hard working
|
Ability to prioritize
Attention to detail, accuracy
Balance multiple projects, tasks
|
Organizational skills
Research skills
Manage tight deadlines
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Hill experience, up to 3 years
Issue area-specific experience as noted
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
37 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 27 ads (15 House, 12 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Legislative Assistant
|
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Handle portfolio of 1-9 issues
Draft bills and amendments
Write memos, floor statements, talking points
Write constituent mail
Meet with constituency and advocacy groups
Represent Member in congressional and public settings
|
Monitor legislation in issue area(s)
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Proactive, takes initiative
Sense of humor
Enthusiastic
Motivated
Sound judgement
|
Strong work ethic
Creative
Appropriate attitude
Adaptable
|
Work well with others
Fast, strategic thinking
Organized
Balance multiple tasks
Attention to detail
|
Operate quickly, efficiently
Interpersonal skills
Research skills
Problem-solving abilities
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Knowledge or experience with legislative process
Relevant Hill experience, 0-2 years
Knowledge of assigned issue area(s)
Experience as an LA or LC
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Bachelor's, graduate, or law degree may be required
Familiarity with computer software used by office
Translate policy into accessible terms
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
24
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Assistant38
Ads
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
107 (77 House, 30 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Handle portfolio of 1-9 issues
Monitor legislation in issue area(s)
Draft bil s and amendments Write memos, floor statements, talking points Write constituent mail Meet with constituency and advocacy groups Represent Member in congressional and public settings
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Proactive, takes initiative
Work wel with others
Sense of humor
Fast, strategic thinking
Enthusiastic
Organized
Motivated
Balance multiple tasks
Sound judgement
Attention to detail
Strong work ethic
Operate quickly, efficiently
Creative
Interpersonal skil s
Appropriate attitude
Research skil s
Adaptable
Problem-solving abilities
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Knowledge or experience with legislative process
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Relevant Hil experience, 0-2 years
Bachelor’s, graduate, or law degree may be required
Knowledge of assigned issue area(s)
Familiarity with computer software, e.g., MS
Experience as an LA or LC
applications, CMS Translate policy into accessible terms Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
38 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 144 ads (103 House, 41 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Legislative Assistant, NEL
|
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Draft bills and amendments
Write memos, Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
25
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Assistant, “Not Entry Level”39
Ads
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
26 (20 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Draft bil s and amendments
Draft constituent correspondence, hearing questions
Write memos, floor statements, talking points,
Advocate for legislation, policy priorities of Member
speeches
Legislative research
floor statements, talking points, speeches
Handle portfolioHandle portfolio
of 1-7 issuesof 1-7 issues
Meet with constituency and advocacy groupsMeet with constituency and advocacy groups
Identify and advance policy proposalsIdentify and advance policy proposals
Represent Member in congressional and public settingsRepresent Member in congressional and public settings
Monitor legislationMonitor legislation
in issue area(s)
Draft constituent correspondence, hearing questions
Advocate for legislation, policy priorities of Member
Legislative research
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Self-starter, proactive
Sense of humor
Motivated
Energetic
Political instincts
|
Hard worker
Strong ideas
Appropriate attitude
Flexible, nimble
|
Work well with others
Analytic thinking
Organizational skills
Interpersonal skills
|
Research skills
Problem-solving abilities
Time management
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Prior experience in a congressional office
Detailed knowledge of assigned issue area(s)
1-2 years of congressional staff work in legislative areas
Prior work as an LA or LC
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Demonstrate substantial legislative experience
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 15 ads (11 House, 4 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "in issue area(s)
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Self-starter, proactive
Work wel with others
Sense of humor
Analytic thinking
Motivated
Organizational skil s
Energetic
Interpersonal skil s
Political instincts
Research skil s
Hard worker
Problem-solving abilities
Strong ideas
Time management
Appropriate attitude Flexible, nimble
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Prior experience in a congressional office
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Detailed knowledge of assigned issue area(s)
Demonstrate substantial legislative experience
1-2 years of congressional staff work in legislative areas
Work environment typical y described as high
Prior work as an LA or LC
pressure, team-based, col aborative
39 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
26
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Correspondent40
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
54 (34 House, 20 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Draft constituent correspondence
CMS management, coding, analysis
Manage Member’s constituent mail program
Oversee a portfolio of 1-8 policy issues (Senate only)
Support legislative and front-office activities Research to formulate written replies Meet with constituents and interest groups Track legislation
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Self-starter
Research
Motivated
Attention to detail, accuracy
Strong work ethic
Organized
Desire to grow in position
Operate quickly
Adaptability
Balance multiple tasks, assignments Work wel with others Interpersonal skil s Fast thinking
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Knowledge of House, Senate operations
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Knowledge of CMS
General y an entry-level position
Hil or other experience, up to 1 year
State or district ties Work environment typical y described as high pressure, team-based, col aborative
40 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
27
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Correspondent/Press Assistant41
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
Ads
Media, Mass Communications,
Messaging, and Speeches
7 (7 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Assist with crafting of constituent correspondence
None stated
Draft op-eds, press releases, talking points, mass mail Sort and prioritize incoming correspondence Assist Communications Director with social media, graphic design, video production Compile daily news clips, track media
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Creative
Accuracy
Motivated
Attention to detail
Interested in added responsibilities, skil development
Organization skil s
Sense of humor
Research skil s
Proactive, takes initiative
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Knowledge of House rules, processes
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Experience with social media platforms, CMS packages
Ties to state or district
Hil experience
Work environment typical y described as high pressure,
Design of audio, graphic, video content
team-based, col aborative
41 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and Coding." "NEL" indicates the advertised positions on which the description is based were designated as "not entry level," or other signifier of presumptive advanced status.
Legislative Correspondent
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and ServiceLegislative, Policy, and Oversight
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Draft constituent correspondence
Manage Member's constituent mail program
Support legislative and front-office activities
Research to formulate written replies
Meet with constituents and interest groups
Track legislation
|
CMS management, coding, analysis
Oversee a portfolio of 1-8 policy issues (Senate only)
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Self-starter
Motivated
Strong work ethic
|
Desire to grow in position
Adaptability
|
Research
Attention to detail, accuracy
Organized
Operate quickly
|
Balance multiple tasks, assignments
Work well with others
Interpersonal skills
Fast thinking
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Knowledge of House, Senate operations
Knowledge of correspondence management software (CMS)
Hill or other experience, up to 2 years
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Generally an entry-level position
State or district ties
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 81 ads (50 House, 31 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant
Legislative, Policy, and OversightConstituent Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
28
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant42
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
Office Administration and Support
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
and Support
15 (14 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Provide office support; greet visitors;Provide office support; greet visitors;
answer phones;answer phones;
Train and supervise interns
process flag, tour requestsprocess flag, tour requests
Coordinate and conduct Capitol toursCoordinate and conduct Capitol tours
Support Member and Chief of StaffSupport Member and Chief of Staff
Manage constituent correspondence programManage constituent correspondence program
Monitor, track mail,Monitor, track mail,
respond in a timelyrespond in a timely
manner
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic, enthusiastic
Accuracy, attention to detail
Proactive, self-starter
Organizational skil s
Sense of humor
Work wel with others
Patience
Balance multiple tasks, competing priorities Research Time management
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Computer software, MS, CMS
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Congressional operations, legislative process
Submission of writing samples, references State or district ties Work environment typical y manner
Train and supervise interns
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic, enthusiastic
Proactive, self-starter
|
Sense of humor
Patience
|
Accuracy, attention to detail
Organizational skills
Work well with others
|
Balance multiple tasks, competing priorities
Research
Time management
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Computer software used in office
Congressional operations, legislative process
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Submission of writing samples, references
State or district ties
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
42 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 39 ads (38 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Legislative Counsel
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
29
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Counsel43
Ads
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
6 (4 House, 2 Senate)
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
Widely Expected Duties
Duties
Other Potential Duties
Duties
Handle policy portfolio of 2-11 issuesHandle policy portfolio of 2-11 issues
Write memos, speeches, and talking points
Plan, execute legislative strategy
Monitor legislative activity
Plan, execute legislative strategy
Support, staff MemberSupport, staff Member
’s committee 's committee activities, activities,
preparation
Write memos, speeches, and talking points
Monitor legislative activity
Support communications team, district officeSupport communications team, district office
preparation
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
None stated
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
None stated
|
Conceptual, analytic thinkingConceptual, analytic thinking
Balance multipleBalance multiple
tasks, projectstasks, projects
Strong interpersonal skil s
Applicant
Strong interpersonal skills
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
House, Senate operations, committeeHouse, Senate operations, committee
functions
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Law, legal research
Law degree general y required
Congressional investigations
Work wel under pressure Work environment typical y functions
Law, legal research
Congressional investigations
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Law degree generally required
Work well under pressure
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 8 ads (6 House, 2 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
43 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
30
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Director, House44
Ads
Legislative, Policy, & Oversight
24 (24 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Lead legislative Categorizing and Coding."
Legislative Director, House
|
Legislative, Policy, & Oversight
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Lead legislative team in support of Member legislative team in support of Member legislative
goals
Supervise and mentor legislative staff
Advance Member policy proposals in committees, on floor
Brief
Brief Member on Member on
al all policy matterspolicy matters
goals
Meet interestMeet interest
groups, constituentsgroups, constituents
Supervise and mentor legislative staff
Handle policy portfolio of 1-7 issues
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Sound political judgement
|
Takes initiative
|
Strong organizational skills
Detail oriented
|
Cooperative
Collaborative
Leadership skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Work as LD or LA
Management or supervisor experiences
Work in public policy, various fields, issues
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Thorough knowledge of House legislative procedure
Knowledge of committee activities, processes
Demonstrated success at advancing policy initiatives
State or district ties, connection
Work environment typicallyHandle policy portfolio of 1-7 issues
Advance Member policy proposals in committees, on floor
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Sound political judgement
Strong organizational skil s
Takes initiative
Detail oriented Work cooperatively and col aboratively with others Leadership skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Work as LD or LA
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Management or supervisor experiences
Thorough knowledge of House legislative procedure
Work in public policy, various fields, issues
Knowledge of committee activities, processes Demonstrated success at advancing policy initiatives State or district ties, connection Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 36 ads (36 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
44 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
31
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Director “Senior Level,” or “Not Entry Level”45
Ads Categorizing and Coding."
Legislative Director, NEL
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
6 (6 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Duties
Other Potential Duties
Duties
Manage legislativeManage legislative
team activityteam activity
Legislative portfolio of 1-5 issues
Supervise legislative staff Work with Member,
Supervise legislative staff
Work with Member, Chief of Staff to develop legislative program
Support Member's committee activities
Legislative portfolio of 1-5 issues
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Proactive
|
Good judgement
|
Attention to detail
Leadership
|
Ability to delegate
Creativity
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Hill or legislative experience, "strong," "substantial""at least 5 years"
[policy area designated in ad] experience
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Thorough knowledge of House or Senate legislative procedure, as appropriate
Demonstrated success at advancing policy initiatives
Advanced degree
State or district ties, connection
Work environment typicallyChief of Staff to develop legislative program Support Member’s committee activities
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Proactive
Attention to detail
Good judgement
Leadership Ability to delegate Creativity
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil or legislative experience, “strong,” “substantial”
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
“at least 5 years”
Thorough knowledge of House legislative procedure
[policy area designated in ad] experience
Demonstrated success at advancing policy initiatives Advanced degree State or district ties, connection Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
45 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 15 ads (11 House, 4 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding." "NEL" indicates the advertised positions on which the description is based were designated as "not entry level," or other signifier of presumptive advanced status.
|
Legislative Director, Senate
Legislative, Policy, and OversightStaff Leadership
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Develop and implement Senator's legislative program
Manage legislative staff of 12-18
Monitor floor activity
Oversee development of vote recommendations
Support office outreach activities Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
32
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Legislative Director, Senate46
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
Ads
Staff Leadership
5 (0 House, 5 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Develop and implement Senator’s legislative program
Mentor staff
Manage legislative staff of 12-18 Monitor floor activity Oversee development of vote recommendations Support office outreach activities to various constituencies
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Sound political judgement
Ability to delegate Strong interpersonal skil s Highly organized Work wel with others Attention to detail Analytic skil s Management skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
3-8 years of Hil experience (Senate preferred)
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Senate LD, Senior LA, Senior Policy Advisor, or Counsel
Work environment typical yto various constituencies
Mentor staff
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
Sound political judgement
|
Ability to delegate
Strong interpersonal skills
Highly organized
Work well with others
|
Attention to detail
Analytic skills
Management skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
3-8 years of Hill experience (Senate preferred)
Senate LD, Senior LA, Senior Policy Advisor, or Counsel
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (0 House, 9 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
46 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
33
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Categorizing and Coding."
Military Legislative Assistant47
Ads Assistant
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
12 (9 House, 3 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Duties
Other Potential Duties
Handle Member’s Duties
Handle Member's work on Armedwork on Armed
Services, Veterans',Homeland Security, Foreign Affairs, or Intelligence Committees, or Defense Appropriations Subcommittees
Handle a portfolio of 1-6 related issues
Advise member on related bills, hearings, and issues
Meet, interact with relevant agency staff
Represent Member in committee and agency settings
Track military acquisition programs
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Self-directed
Strong ideas
|
Appropriate attitude
|
Work independently
Operate quickly, efficiently
|
Work well with others
Problem-solving abilities
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Legislative procedures and committee processes
Military service
Relevant committee work
Military legislative assistant, professional staff member
0-5 years related experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Active TOP SECRET clearance
Knowledge of defense authorizations, appropriations
Coalition building
Military reserve service
Work environment typicallyServices, Veterans’,
Represent Member in committee and agency settings
Homeland Security, Foreign Affairs, or Intel igence
Track military acquisition programs
Committees, or Defense Appropriations Subcommittees Handle a portfolio of 1-6 related issues Advise member on related bil s, hearings, and issues Meet, interact with relevant agency staff
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Self-directed
Work independently
Strong ideas
Operate quickly, efficiently
Appropriate attitude
Work wel with others Problem-solving abilities
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Legislative procedures and committee processes
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Military service
Active TOP SECRET clearance
Relevant committee work
Knowledge of defense authorizations, appropriations
Military legislative assistant, professional staff member
Coalition building
0-5 years related experience
Military reserve service Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 18 ads (14 House, 4 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
47 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
34
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Press Assistant48
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Messaging, and Speeches
18 (10 House, 8 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Write social media, website content, emails, newsletters
Maintain media lists
Assist with media inquiries, press releases, interviews
Organize or support media events
Manage social media accounts Compile daily clips and media mentions
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Motivated
Attention to detail
Creative
Balance multiple tasks
Takes initiative
Cooperative, col aborative Operate quickly
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Content design, audio, graphic, video
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Public relations, journalism
General y an entry-level position
Knowledge of chamber procedures, activities
Work environment typical y described as high
Software, MS, graphic, and video production
pressure, team-based, col aborative
48 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and Coding."
Office Manager
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Manage administrative functions of office
Prepare, oversee, implement office budget
Monitor office accounts
Main point of contact for chamber, legislative branch support offices
Point of contact with building management (state or district-based positions only)
|
Represent Member
Implement office handbook
Serve as office emergency coordinator
Supervise front office staff, interns
Order supplies
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
None stated
|
Multitasking
Prioritizing
|
Strategic thinking
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Previous congressional administrative experience
Previous management experience
Casework experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Long hours, nights, weekends
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 5 ads (1 House, 4 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Outreach Representative
See "Field, District, Outreach, or Regional Representative"
Press Assistant
|
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Write social media, website content, emails, newsletters
Assist with media inquiries, press releases, interviews
Manage social media accounts
Compile daily clips and media mentions
|
Maintain Member website
Video creation, production
Draft talking points
Maintain media lists
Organize or support media events
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Motivated
Creative
|
Takes initiative
|
Attention to detail
Balance multiple tasks
|
Cooperative, collaborative
Quick learner
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Content design, audio, graphic, video
Public relations, journalism
Knowledge of chamber procedures, activities
Software, graphic, and video production applications
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Generally an entry-level position
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 28 ads (16 House, 12 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Press Secretary
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
35
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Press Secretary49
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
37 (31 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Write
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Write and edit press releases,and edit press releases,
op-eds, talking points, op-eds, talking points,
Oversee day-to-day press operations in DC, state, or
newsletters, newsletters, and franked communicationsand franked communications
district
Develop
Develop and maintain effective relationshipsand maintain effective relationships
with
Manage office website, social media
with district, state, and national mediadistrict, state, and national media
Prepare Member for media interactions
Work
Work with office staff to identify news hooks and with office staff to identify news hooks and
Write speeches
story pitches Book, story pitches
Book, coordinate interviewscoordinate interviews
with reporterswith reporters
Plan, organize, and staff media eventsPlan, organize, and staff media events
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Sound political instincts
Balance multiple assignments, tasks
Takes initiative
Attention to detail, accuracy
Hard worker
Handle stress
Sense of humor
Work wel with others
Motivated
Efficient
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Media, journalism, public relations roles, experience
Strong writing and speaking skil s
Hil experience
Submission of writing samples,
Oversee day-to-day press operations in DC, state, or district
Manage office website, social media
Prepare Member for media interactions
Write speeches
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Sound political instincts
Takes initiative
Hard worker
|
Sense of humor
Motivated
|
Balance multiple assignments, tasks
Attention to detail, accuracy
Handle stress
|
Work well with others
Efficient
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Media, journalism, public relations roles, experience
Hill experience
Content design, audio, graphics, video
|
Strong writing and speaking skills
Submission of writing samples, including press releases, including press releases,
Content design, audio, graphics, video
talking points, tweetstalking points, tweets
On
On- and off and off
the -the-record briefing experiencerecord briefing experience
Media contactsMedia contacts
Work environment typical y
Bilingual/language skills, typically Spanish
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
49 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 61 ads (49 House, 12 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Press Secretary/Digital Director
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
36
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Press Secretary/Digital Director50
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Messaging, and Speeches
5 (5 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Draft statements, releases, and other materials
Plan and execute press conferences, media events
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Draft statements, releases, and other materials
Create social media content, written, graphic, and videoCreate social media content, written, graphic, and video
Manage media contact lists
Manage office social media accounts and websites
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Takes initiative, motivated
Digital media skil s
Hard worker
Balance multiple assignments, tasks
Self-starter
Attention to detail, accuracy
Sense of humor
Wel organized Work wel with others
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Communications
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Media coordination
Position is general y not entry level, up to 2 years’
Experience with photography; creating audio, graphic,
experience expected
and video content
May work closely with Communications Director or Deputy Chief of Staff On the record briefing experience Work environment typical y
Manage office social media accounts and websites
Plan and execute press conferences, media events
Manage media contact lists
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Takes initiative, motivated
Hard worker
|
Self-starter
Sense of humor
|
Digital media skills
Balance multiple assignments, tasks
Attention to detail, accuracy
|
Well organized
Work well with others
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Communications
Media coordination
Experience with photography; creating audio, graphic, and video content
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Position is generally not entry level, up to 2 years' experience expected
May work closely with Communications Director or Deputy Chief of Staff
On-the-record briefing experience
Bilingual/language skills, typically Spanish
Hill experience
Work environment typically described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (9 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
50 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
37
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Regional Director51
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
5 (0 House, 5 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Monitor, update office on regional and local issues
Process constituent casework requests
Represent Senator at events, civic, community meetings
Travel throughout region, state
Act as liaison with federal, state, and local officials,
Oversee work of junior regional staff
agencies, community organizations
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Enthusiastic
Able to balance multiple tasks and projects
Outgoing
Attention to detail
Motivated
Highly organized
Adaptable
Work wel with others
Creative ideas
Reliable
Self-starter
Able to work independently
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
State and local government
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Public policy issues
State or community ties
Outreach
Team player
MS applications, CMS
Work environment typical yCategorizing and Coding."
Press/Digital Assistant
|
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Develop and implement the office's digital and social media strategy
Craft and maintain social media content across platforms, and website content
Assist with drafting of press releases, advisories, talking points, op-eds, newsletters
Attend, assist with outreach events
|
Compile daily media clips, written and video
Create, maintain press lists for state or district and DC
Maintain relations with reporters
Staff Member at media events
Shoot, edit video
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Highly motivated
Creative
|
Proactive
Energetic
|
Detail oriented
Multitasking
Politically astute
|
Comfort interacting with a wide range of people
Communicate in a friendly, accessible manner
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Basic understanding of congressional processes
Photography, graphic design, and video editing experience
Hill or campaign experience
|
Excellent written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 12 ads (11 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Regional Director
|
Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Monitor, update office on regional and local issues
Represent Senator at events, civic, community meetings
Act as liaison with federal, state, and local officials,agencies, community organizations
Process constituent casework requests
Travel throughout region, state
Oversee work of junior regional staff
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Enthusiastic
Outgoing
Motivated
|
Adaptable
Creative ideas
Self-starter
|
Able to balance multiple tasks and projects
Attention to detail
Highly organized
|
Work well with others
Reliable
Work independently
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
State and local government
Public policy issues
Outreach
Computer software used in office
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
State or community ties
Team player
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
51 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (1 House, 8 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Regional Representative
See "Field, District, Outreach, or Regional Representative"
Scheduler
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Oversee Member's schedule in DC and state/district
Schedule, coordinate Member and staff travel, lodging
Organize and track invitations
Drive Member to and from events
Provide administrative support to Member
|
Hire and manage interns
Provide administrative support to Chief of Staff
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Energetic
Sound political judgement
Appropriate attitude
|
Takes initiative
Adaptability
|
Accuracy, attention to details
Highly organized
Balance multiple tasks
|
Friendly, outgoing
Problem-solving abilities
Work well with others
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Work as Scheduler or Executive Assistant
House or Senate operations, procedures
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
On-call availability after working hours
May supervise junior operations staff (Senate)
Travel between Washington, DC, and state or district
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
38
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Scheduler52
Ads
Office Administration and Support
48 (42 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Oversee Member’s schedule in DC and state/district
Hire and manage interns
Schedule, coordinate Member and staff travel, lodging
Provide administrative support to Chief of Staff
Organize and track invitations Drive Member to and from events Provide administrative support to Member
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Energetic
Accuracy, attention to details
Sound political judgement
Highly organized
Appropriate attitude
Able to balance multiple tasks
Takes initiative
Friendly, outgoing
Adaptability
Problem-solving abilities Work wel with others
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Work as Scheduler or Executive Assistant
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
House or Senate operations, procedures
On-cal availability after working hours May supervise junior operations staff (Senate) Travel between Washington, DC, and state or district Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
52 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 85 ads (75 House, 10 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Scheduler, NEL
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Collaboratively develop Member's schedule
Make Member travel arrangements
Handle Member's correspondence
Provide Member administrative support
|
Coordinate DC schedule with district
Ensure Member has briefing materials
Maintain contacts database
Maintain office records
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Excellent political instincts
|
Proactive
|
Discretion, confidentiality
Close attention to detail
|
Organizational skills
Work well with others
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Work as congressional scheduler, 1-2 years
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Flexible schedule
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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Scheduler, “Not Entry Level”53
Ads
Office Administration and Support
8 (7 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Col aboratively develop Member’s schedule
Coordinate DC schedule with district
Make Member travel arrangements
Ensure Member has briefing materials
Handle Member’s correspondence
Maintain contacts database
Provide Member administrative support
Maintain office records
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Excel ent political instincts
Discretion, maintain confidentiality
Proactive
Close attention to detail Organizational skil s Work wel with others
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Work as congressional scheduler, 1-2 years
Strong written and verbal communications skil s Flexible schedule Work environment typical y described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
53 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 26 ads (25 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding." "NEL" indicates the advertised positions on which the description is based were designated as "not entry level," or other signifier of presumptive advanced status.
|
Scheduler/Office Manager
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Manage Member's district and DC schedule
Facilitate Member's personal correspondence
Oversee front-office management
Collaborate with the Chief of Staff to manage the Member Representational Allowance and payroll
Administer office finances, benefits, and procurement
Work closely with the Chief of Staff and District Director to ensure effective office operations
|
Keep Member on schedule during the day
Supervise staff assistants, interns
Drive the Member to events
Arrange travel and meetings
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Appropriate attitude
Flexibility
|
Sound political instincts
|
Balance competing demands
Attention to detail
|
Strong organizational skills
Problem-solving abilities
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Hill experience
Executive assistant
Congressional scheduling
Knowledge of House schedules, activities
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Assist the Member after regular business hours
Typically not an entry-level position
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 17 ads (17 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Scheduler/Staff Assistant
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Coordinate and maintain Member's schedule in DC, or district
Manage Member travel logistics
Answer telephone
Greet visitors
|
Conduct Capitol tours
Administrative, project support
Drive Member
Supervise interns
Process Member travel vouchers
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Motivated
Enthusiastic
|
Energetic
Personable
|
Organized
Detail oriented
Multitasking
|
Collaborative
Exercise discretion
Independent thinking
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Database proficiency
Prior Hill experience
Knowledge of office, House administrative policies
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
State ties
Late night, early morning availability
Spanish language proficiency
Driver's license and car
Work environment typicallyCategorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Scheduler/Office Manager54
Ads
Office Administration and Support
11 (11 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Manage Member’s district and DC schedule
Keep Member on schedule during the day
Facilitate Member’s personal correspondence
Supervise staff assistants, interns
Oversee front-office management
Drive the Member to events
Col aborate with the Chief of Staff to manage the MRA and Arrange travel and meetings payrol Administer office finances, benefits, and procurement Work closely with the Chief of Staff and District Director to ensure effective office operations
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Appropriate attitude
Balance competing demands
Flexibility
Strong organizational skil s
Sound political instincts
Attention to detail Problem-solving abilities
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Executive assistant
Assist the Member after regular business hours
Congressional scheduling
Typical y not an entry-level position
Knowledge of House schedules, activities
Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 7 ads (7 House, 0 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
54 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Senior Legislative Assistant55
Ads
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
13 (12 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Support Member in committee activities
Build or expand Member policy priorities
Manage Member work in assigned issue area(s)
Represent Member in congressional and public settings
Research bil s and other issues Advise Member
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Self-starter, self-directed
Work wel with others
Good political judgement, instincts
Work independently
Sense of humor
Able to balance multiple tasks, assignments Organized Attention to detail/thorough
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Substantial congressional experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Substantial issue(s) experience
Extensive knowledge of legislative, committee process
2-5 years of relevant experience
Work environment typical yCategorizing and Coding."
Scheduling Director
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Plan and execute Senator's daily schedule in DC, state
Manage schedule invitations and correspondence
Brief Senator re scheduling, travel
Manage information flow between Senator and staff including logistics and briefing materials
|
Provide administrative and staffing support to Senator
Manage Deputy Scheduler
Maintain Senator's personal files
Support special events
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
None stated
|
Detail oriented
Deadline oriented
Ability to prioritize
|
Flexible
Sound political judgment
Discretion
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
3 or more years' experience scheduling
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Long hours
Work environment typically described as fast-paced, high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 10 ads (0 House, 10 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Senior Legislative Assistant
|
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Support Member in committee activities
Manage Member work in assigned issue area(s)
Research bills and other issues
Advise Member
|
Build or expand Member policy priorities
Represent Member in congressional and public settings
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
Self-starter, self-directed
Good political judgement, instincts
|
Sense of humor
Thorough
|
Work well with others
Work independently
Balance multiple tasks, assignments
|
Organized
Attention to detail
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
"Significant" or "substantial" congressional experience
Substantial issue(s) experience
2-5 years of relevant experience
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Extensive knowledge of legislative, committee process
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
55 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 25 ads (24 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Special Assistant
|
Office Administration and Support
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
|
Staff and drive Member
Handle Member's personal and official correspondence
Work with office staff to provide necessary materials to Member for events
Coordinate with scheduler, others regarding scheduling and logistics
|
Brief member on upcoming events
Support Administrative Director
Support correspondence program
Assist with office interns
Assist staff with recordkeeping and other administrative tasks
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Discreet
Proactive
|
Appropriate temperament
|
Multitasking
Problem solving
|
Prioritization of tasks
Effectively interact with staff, constituents
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
|
Campaign or elected official support experience
Hill experience preferred
Experience with correspondence management systems (CRM)
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Spanish language proficiency
Interest in public service
Driver's license; access to working car
State or district ties
Evening and weekend work
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (4 House, 5Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Speechwriter56
Media, Mass Communications,
Ads
Messaging, and Speeches
10 (0 House, 10 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Draft and revise speeches, floor Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
Speechwriter
|
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
|
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Draft and revise speeches, floor and committee and committee
Manage social media accounts
statements, statements,
talking points, and scriptstalking points, and scripts
Conduct supporting historical and policy researchConduct supporting historical and policy research
AssistAssist
in drafting op-eds, press statements,in drafting op-eds, press statements,
web content
Manage social media accounts
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Creative
|
Hard worker
|
Strong writing and editing skills
Can explain complex issues in an accessible, relatable manner
|
Attention to detail, accuracy
Balance multiple tasks and projects
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Hill or campaign experience
Speechwriting
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Adapt to Member's "voice"
Work environment typicallyweb content
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Creative
Strong writing and editing skil s
Hard worker
Ability to explain complex policy issues in an accessible, relatable manner Attention to detail, accuracy Balance multiple tasks and projects
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Hil or campaign experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Speechwriting
Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 23 ads (3 House, 20 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
56 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Staff Assistant57
Constituent Categorizing and Coding."
Staff Assistant
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
84 (67 House, 17 Senate)
Office Administration and Support
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Assist with office management duties; sort mail, greet and Support
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Assist with office management duties; sort mail, greet
Drive Member to events, activities
constituents, answer phones, monitor suppliesconstituents, answer phones, monitor supplies
Draft grant or commemorative letters
Coordinate office internship program,Coordinate office internship program,
supervise internssupervise interns
Handle flag, tour, and recognition requestsHandle flag, tour, and recognition requests
Provide tours
Drive Member to events, activities
Draft grant or commemorative letters
May supervise interns
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Motivated
Outgoing, enthusiastic
Appropriate attitude
Hard worker
|
Sense of humor
Self-starter
Flexibility
|
High degree of organization
Attention to detail
Balance multiple tasks
|
Interpersonal skills
Professional manner
Reliable, trustworthy
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Knowledge of congressional schedules, operations
Computer skills, experiences
Hill internship
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Typically an entry-level position
Some college or a bachelor's degree
Long hours
District or state ties
Work environment typicallyProvide tours
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Motivated
High degree of organization
Outgoing, enthusiastic
Attention to detail
Appropriate attitude
Balance multiple tasks
Hard worker
Interpersonal skil s
Sense of humor
Professional manner
Self-starter
Reliable, trustworthy
Flexibility
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Knowledge of congressional schedules, operations
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Computer skil s, experiences
Typical y an entry-level position
Hil internship
Some col ege or a bachelor’s degree May supervise interns District or state ties Work environment typical y described as high described as high
pressure,pressure,
team-based, collaborative
Based on CRS analysis of 188 ads (165 House, 23 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "team-based, col aborative
57 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Categorizing and Coding."
Staff Assistant/Driver58
Ads Driver
Office Administration and Support
7 (3 House, 4 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Drive
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Drive Member to and from meetings and eventsMember to and from meetings and events
Assist with press operation
Provide office support, answer phones, give tours, Provide office support, answer phones, give tours,
Compile press clippings
greet visitors, process flag requests
Draft correspondence
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Motivated
Attention to detail
Sense of humor
Balance multiple tasks, activities
Energetic
Dependable
Adaptable
Good organizational skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
None stated
Strong written and verbal communications skil s May be based in Washington, DC, state, or district “A spotless driving record” Long, irregular, unscheduled hours Appears to be an entry-level position Work environment typical ygreet visitors, process flag requests
Assist with press operation
Compile press/media clippings
Draft correspondence
|
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Motivated
Sense of humor
|
Energetic
Adaptable
|
Attention to detail
Balance multiple tasks, activities
|
Dependable
Good organizational skills
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
None stated
|
Strong written and verbal communications skills
May be based in Washington, DC, state, or district
"A spotless driving record"
Long, irregular, unscheduled hours
Appears to be an entry-level position
Work environment typically described as high pressure, described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative
58 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ team-based, collaborative
|
Based on CRS analysis of 9 ads (3 House, 6 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
45
link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Staff Assistant/Press Assistant59
Media, Mass Communications,
Media, Mass Communications, Messaging, and Speeches
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
Office Administration and Support
|
Widely Expected Duties
|
Other Potential Duties
|
Manage office website, social media posting
and Support
5 (5 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Manage office website, social media posting
Compile press clips
Support office: greet guests, answerSupport office: greet guests, answer
phones, handle phones, handle
Assist mail, conduct tours, process flag requests
Compile press/media clips
Assist Communications DirectorCommunications Director
with press releases, with press releases,
inquiries
|
Applicant Characteristics
|
Applicant Skills
|
|
Enthusiastic
Motivated
Sense of humor
|
Take initiative
Willing to learn, add responsibilities
|
Balance multiple assignments
Detail oriented
|
Digital media
Handle stress
|
|
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
|
Other Expectations
|
Audio, graphic, or video experience
Software applications, social media platform use
Communications, public relations,
mail,
inquiries
conduct tours, process flag requests
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Enthusiastic
Balance multiple assignments
Motivated
Detail oriented
Sense of humor
Digital media
Take initiative
Handle stress
Wil ing to learn, add responsibilities
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Audio, graphic, or video experience
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
MS applications, social media platform use
Work environment typical y described as high
Communications, public relations, experience,
pressure, team-based, col aborative
education
59 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ experience, education
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Work environment typically described as high pressure, team-based, collaborative
|
|
Based on CRS analysis of 10 ads (9 House, 1 Senate) seeking congressional staff for the stated position, as described in "Categorizing and Coding."
|
Jamie V. Lee, User Support Specialist, provided formatting and production support. Casey Burgat, formerly a Research Assistant, assisted in the development of variable categorization and provided extensive coding support for an earlier edition of this report.
Footnotes
| 1.
|
Staff roles and duties in committee or leadership settings are beyond the scope of this report.
|
| 2.
|
See U.S. House of Representatives, "Employment Information," at https://www.house.gov/employment.
|
| 3.
|
See U.S. Senate, "Employment Bulletin," at https://www.senate.gov/employment/po/positions.htm.
|
| 4.
|
In addition, some job ads available prior to the spring of 2021 were collected by House leadership officials, including the House GOP Job and Resume Bank, which publicly posted ads on behalf of the House Republican Conference on Facebook between approximately January 2017 and November 2020. Other ads were collected from the period between approximately December 2014 and January 2017 from the website of Representative Virginia Foxx during part of her tenure as the House Republican Conference Secretary. Other sources were the Job Announcements Board hosted by Representative Steny Hoyer during parts of his tenures as House majority leader and as House minority whip. Data were collected from ads posted between approximately December 2020 and March 2021, and January 2016 and December 2017.
|
| 5.
|
Frequently reposted ads include those that appeared in sequential editions of the House Employment Bulletin, and ads for the same position posted by identifiable offices more than once over a period of six months.
|
| 6.
|
Other congressional settings for which ads were collected include committee, leadership, officer, official, shared Member and committee, party conferences and caucuses, and House congressional member organizations.
|
| 7.
|
For example, the ad sources used did not contain analyzable numbers of ads for Casework Supervisors in either chamber or State Director positions in the Senate.
|
| 8.
|
For examples, see differences in expectations between some positions and identically titled positions designated as "Not Entry Level" or "Senior;" House and Senate Legislative Directors; or similarities between Legislative Assistant, Military Legislative Assistant, Legislative Aide, and Legislative Correspondent.
|
| 9.
|
See, e.g., Legislative Correspondent and Legislative Correspondent/Staff Assistant, or Digital Director, Press Secretary, and Press Secretary/Digital Director, among others.
|
| 10.
|
The smallest Senate personal office typically has twice the number of staff as the maximum staffing levels authorized for House Member offices, which is typically higher than the actual level of staffing in personal offices in that chamber.
|
Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Systems Administrator60
Ads
Office Administration and Support
10 (0 House, 10 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Update, maintain DC and state office computer systems
Update office IT policies and procedures
Ensure network and email availability Recommend purchases of IT hardware, software Instal service packs, virus definition updates Develop, maintain information management system Provide user training and support
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
Motivated
Highly organized
Takes initiative
Good interpersonal skil s
Patience
Attention to detail Able to balance multiple tasks, projects Analytic thinking
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
Work with office productivity software, CMS
Strong written and verbal communications skil s
Understanding of Senate IT assets, processes, policies
Work environment typical y described as high pressure,
Systems administrator, 0-5 years
team-based, col aborative
60 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills
Author Information
R. Eric Petersen
Specialist in American National Government
Acknowledgments
Casey Burgat, formerly a Research Assistant, assisted in the development of variable categorization and provided extensive coding support.
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should n ot be relied upon for purposes other than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.
Congressional Research Service
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