Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills Identified by Members of Congress for Selected Positions

March 10, 2020 – April 23, 2021 R46262

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
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
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
which staff are necessary. Accordingly, a group of job advertisements for those positions from a number of
different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for position duties, as wel as staff skil s,
characteristics, experience, and other expectations. This report provides a set of 41 widely expected job duties,
applicant skil s, characteristics, prior experiences, and other expectations based on a sample of ads placed by
Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and March 2021 seeking staff in their offices for
35 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
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. 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 in some ways
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
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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ongressional employees are retained to perform public duties that include assisting
Members in official responsibilities in personal, committee, leadership, or administrative
C office settings. The roles, duties, and activities of congressional staff are matters of
ongoing interest to Members of Congress, congressional staff,1 groups,2 and individuals,3
including those who raise concerns about congressional operations. Most observers recognize that
Congress does not function without staff,4 but there is little5 systematic attention to what staff do,
or what Members expect of them.
In congressional offices, there may be interest in identifying Member expectations of
congressional staff duties by position from multiple perspectives, including assessment of staffing
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
position expectations. Members of the House and Senate general y establish their own
employment policies and practices for their personal offices.6 It is arguably the case that within
Member offices, a common group of activities is executed for which staff with relevant skil sets
and other qualifications are necessary. A body of publicly available job advertisements for staff
positions from a number of different offices can shed light on the expectations Members have for
position duties, as wel as staff skil s, characteristics, experience, and other needs.
For 35 commonly used congressional staff position titles, this report provides a set of 41 sample
position descriptions including widely expected job duties, applicant skil s, characteristics, prior
experiences, and other expectations based on information found in a sample of job advertisements
placed by Members of Congress between approximately December 2014 and March 2021 seeking
staff in their offices. 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 publicly available
sources, including the following, over the periods specified:
 The House Employment Bulletin, published weekly by the House Vacancy
Announcement and Placement Service (HVAPS) in the Human Resources Office
of the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).7 Data were collected from ads
published between approximately January 2015 and March 2021.
 The Employment Bulletin, published 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
public congressional employment solicitations. Duplicate ads resulting from posts to more than
one source, and ads that appear to have been frequently reposted,11 were removed, as were ads for
positions in congressional settings other than personal offices,12 yielding 931 ads for positions in
Member personal offices. Substantial y similar position titles (e.g., deputy scheduler and state
deputy scheduler) for which there were five or more ads were identified and grouped together, as
were related job titles (e.g., positions designated as district, field, or regional representative that
had essential y similar job duties and expectations) for which there were five or more
substantial y similar ads, yielding a total of 763 ads. Ads for the 35 identified position titles were
further categorized if there were five or more ads that specified the advertised position as “not

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
variety of variables within eight categories, including ad tracking information; ad details; position
responsibilities and responsibility areas; expected job skil s, qualifications, and credentials;
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
manner. Means of identifying appropriate candidates might potential y include reassigning staff
within offices, placing ads in services that make them available by subscription,14 word of mouth,
and other nonpublic means of identifying potential applicants for congressional staff positions.
Consequently, it cannot be determined whether the dataset of ads analyzed in this report is
representative of al 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, most position titles were identified by one of the
following five primary responsibility areas (some positions were identified by up to three
responsibility areas):
 Legislative, Policy, and Oversight,
 Media, Messaging, and Speeches,
 Constituent Communications, Outreach, and Service,
 Office Administration and Support, and
 Staff Leadership.
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:
 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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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. 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
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,
or differences in the expectations of an employee in that position.17 Some other titles suggest that
congressional employing offices might assign a number of titles to substantial y similar groups of
position expectations, duties, knowledge and skil s.18 Consequently, assumptions about job titles
as a singular organizing concept might be questionable.
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
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
made available to operate the personal offices of Members of the House and Senators.19
These and other explanations may limit the extent to which sample position expectations
provided here match operational practices in al congressional 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
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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.
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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.”
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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,
team-based, col aborative

21 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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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, support,
Mentor staff
and other staff
Manage Member’s offices and operations
Manage senior staff, monitor DC and state staff (Senate ads
only)
Supervise up to 18 ful -time staffers in DC and district
offices (House ads only)
Oversee al personnel matters: staff reviews; salary
decisions; and hiring (House ads only)
Manage the MRA 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 described as high
pressure, team-based, col aborative
Thorough knowledge of legislative process and chamber
rules
Work hours typical y include long hours, weekends
Up to 5 years relevant experience
State or district ties general y preferred but not
required

22 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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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 y described as high
pressure, team-based, col aborative

23 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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Communications Director, “Senior Level” or “Not Entry Level”24
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 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
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 Staff, Press
Assistant, Press Secretary, Social Media Assistant
Submission of various writing samples
Work environment typical y described as high
pressure, team-based, col aborative

24 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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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 y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

25 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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Correspondence Manager26
Constituent Communications,
Outreach, and Service
Ads

11 (0 House, 11 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Coordinate with office leadership, LCs to produce,
Provide CMS reports, system maintenance
deliver substantive, timely written responses to
Train interns, LCs, and Staff Assistants in
constituent inquiries
correspondence processes
Draft, edit outgoing correspondence
Manage 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 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,
team-based, col aborative

26 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
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Deputy Press Secretary27
Media, Mass Communications,
Messaging, and Speeches
Ads

8 (0 House, 8 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Writing in numerous formats including press releases,
Maintain office website
op-eds, talking points, newsletters, speeches, social media
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.”
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Deputy Scheduler28
Office Administration and Support
Ads

7 (0 House, 7 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Sort, track, and respond to Senator’s state invitations
Greet Senator’s meeting attendees
Assist other staff to execute Senator’s daily 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 described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

28 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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
Office Administration and Support
Ads

7 (0 House, 7 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Provide administrative and staffing support to Scheduler
Handle Chief of Staff correspondence
Plan, maintain Chief of Staff’s calendar
Prepare correspondence for signature
Drive Senator on occasion
Provide executive secretarial support
Organize, vet, respond to invitations
Facilitate 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 described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

29 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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
Messaging, and Speeches
5 (3 House, 2 Senate)
Widely Expected 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 described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

30 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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 described as high
pressure, 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 y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

32 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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,
team-based, col aborative

33 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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,
team-based, col aborative

34 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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,
team-based, col aborative

35 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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
pressure, 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
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
12 (6 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Draft constituent correspondence legislation, memos
Oversee office mail program
Meet with constituents, agency staff, other 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 described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

37 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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,
team-based, col aborative

38 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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
Handle portfolio of 1-7 issues
Meet with constituency and advocacy groups
Identify and advance policy proposals
Represent Member in congressional and public settings
Monitor legislation 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 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

15 (14 House, 1 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Provide office support; greet visitors; answer phones;
Train and supervise interns
process flag, tour requests
Coordinate and conduct Capitol tours
Support Member and Chief of Staff
Manage constituent correspondence program
Monitor, track mail, respond 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 described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

42 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Handle policy portfolio of 2-11 issues
Write memos, speeches, and talking points
Plan, execute legislative strategy
Monitor legislative activity
Support, staff Member’s committee activities,
Support communications team, district office
preparation
Applicant Characteristics
Applicant Skills
None stated
Conceptual, analytic thinking
Balance multiple tasks, projects
Strong interpersonal skil s
Applicant Knowledge and Prior Experience
Other Expectations
House, 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 described as high
pressure, 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 team in support of Member legislative
Brief Member on al policy matters
goals
Meet interest groups, constituents
Supervise and mentor legislative staff
Handle 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
pressure, 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
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
6 (6 House, 0 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Manage legislative team activity
Legislative portfolio of 1-5 issues
Supervise legislative staff
Work with Member, Chief 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,
team-based, col aborative

45 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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 y described as high
pressure, 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

Military Legislative Assistant47
Ads
Legislative, Policy, and Oversight
12 (9 House, 3 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Handle Member’s work on Armed Services, 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
pressure, 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 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
Messaging, and Speeches
37 (31 House, 6 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Write and edit press releases, op-eds, talking points,
Oversee day-to-day press operations in DC, state, or
newsletters, and franked communications
district
Develop and maintain effective relationships with
Manage office website, social media
district, state, and national media
Prepare Member for media interactions
Work with office staff to identify news hooks and
Write speeches
story pitches
Book, coordinate interviews with reporters
Plan, 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, including press releases,
Content design, audio, graphics, video
talking points, tweets
On and off the record briefing experience
Media contacts
Work environment typical y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

49 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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
Create 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 described as high
pressure, 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 y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

51 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing 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,
team-based, col aborative

52 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
39

link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills

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,
team-based, col aborative

53 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
40

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
pressure, 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
41

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 y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

55 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
42

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 and committee
Manage social media accounts
statements,
talking points, and scripts
Conduct supporting historical and policy research
Assist in drafting op-eds, press statements, web 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
pressure, 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
43

link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills

Staff Assistant57
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
Drive Member to events, activities
constituents, answer phones, monitor supplies
Draft grant or commemorative letters
Coordinate office internship program, supervise interns
Handle flag, tour, and recognition requests
Provide 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
pressure, 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
44

link to page 6 link to page 6 Congressional Staff: Duties, Qualifications, and Skills

Staff Assistant/Driver58
Ads
Office Administration and Support
7 (3 House, 4 Senate)
Widely Expected Duties
Other Potential Duties
Drive Member to and from meetings and events
Assist with press operation
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 y described as high pressure,
team-based, col aborative

58 Based on CRS analysis of selected advertisements seeking congressional staff, as described in “ 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,
Messaging, and Speeches
Constituent Communications,
Ads
Outreach, and Service
Office Administration 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, answer phones, handle
Assist Communications Director with press releases,
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 “ Categorizing and
Coding Job Advertisements.”
Congressional Research Service
46

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.”
Congressional Research Service
47

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
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copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

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American Law

Foreign Affairs

Report Type: CRS Report

Source: CRSReports.Congress.gov, EveryCRSReport.com

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