Job Details
Public Information Officer: Senate Republican Caucus
2026-08-28 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
REQUIRED:
Exercises sound judgment when writing on behalf of a Senator, in a manner consistent with the views and voice of that Senator. Edit and write in a professional manner, under tight deadlines. Accurately interpret, clarify, and express the views and positions of diverse members without inserting your personal views. Develop and maintain cordial, effective working relationships with co- workers, legislators, the media, interest group representatives and the public. Attention to detail and adherence to Senate rules and The Ethics Act.
EDUCATION:
Bachelor's degree involving major study in journalism, public relations, communications, political science or a closely related field. Certifications in special job-related skills a plus (e.g. - SEO, digital communications, speech writing, etc.)
EXPERIENCE:
Minimum three years of professional journalism, public relations, or public affairs experience or on the staff of another legislative body.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Supplemental Information
COMPENSATION:
RCW 49.58.110 requires employers to provide a full salary range in job postings. The salary range for this position is $6.388 - $11.071 monthly. The hiring salary offered will consider internal equity and will be based on relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. A hiring salary will be less than the top of any range, however.
The Senate offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance; vacation, sick, military, bereavement, and civil leave; twelve paid holidays per year; a state retirement plan; deferred compensation; healthcare flexible spending account; dependent care assistance; infant at work policy, optional credit unions; paid subscription to DeleteMe; and tuition reimbursement.
TO APPLY: Please also attach a cover letter, resume, references and writing sample. E-mail contact Applicants will list their full legal name: first, middle, last. Applicants will also list their current address. Applicants will also list why they want to be part of the Senate Republican Caucus team.
Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the Senate Human Resource Office at
The Washington State Senate is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, physical, sensory, or mental disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the use of a service animal by a person with a disability.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
Salary: $6,388.00 - $11,071.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: SRC-08262026
Department: Washington State Senate
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/15/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
JOB TITLE: Public Information Officer: Senate Republican Caucus
REPORTS TO: Communications Director, Chief of Staff and assigned Senators.
SALARY: $76,656 - $132,852 annually depending on qualifications.
LOCATION: Olympia, Washington
CLOSES: September 15, 2026
SENATE PROFILE:
The Washington State Legislature is a bicameral body comprised of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Legislature meets annually in the Capitol Building in Olympia beginning on the second Monday in January. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed. Permanent staff work year-round supporting the Senate and its members.
POSITION PROFILE:
Team member will create and distribute communication and media materials and develop constituent information for your assigned Senators. You are required to use numerous communication tools that include traditional media, social and web-based platforms, and direct mail services for strategic communication purposes. You are required to source, track, and summarize policy initiatives and legislation in order to meet communication goals and objectives.
Duties
- Performs professional informational work by writing and editing news releases, opinion-editorials, speeches, talking points, radio scripts, newsletters, presentations as well as creating social media and blog content.
- Performs media outreach responsibilities, to create interview opportunities and serves as a liaison to the media for your Senate members, by developing strong and effective relationships with the press corps.
- Accesses information through research, member and staff interviews, and legislative sources;
- Manages projects for direct mail and information collateral pieces such as district mailings and e-newsletters. Works with graphic, video and photography staff to create final products for mailing, display and digital distribution;
- Monitors media coverage of assigned Senators and the media environment important to the Senator's legislative goals;
- Develops in-depth familiarity with policy areas on which assigned members work.
- Embraces emerging technologies and incorporates them into production of deliverables so Senators maximize new and relevant tools;
- Performs other work as required under the direction of the Communications Director
REQUIRED:
- Strong writing and editing in journalism style and AP style
- Working knowledge of media outreach and management practices
- Demonstrated aptitude for quickly acquiring new information - such as legislative knowledge or breaking news
- Proficiency in MS Office products, as well as social media and generative AI platforms
- Demonstrated aptitude for quickly learning to use new technology
- Working knowledge of the legislative process and the committee and leadership structure within the state Senate
- Experience with public relations strategies and practices
- Experience using Canva
- Proficient in social media video production
Exercises sound judgment when writing on behalf of a Senator, in a manner consistent with the views and voice of that Senator. Edit and write in a professional manner, under tight deadlines. Accurately interpret, clarify, and express the views and positions of diverse members without inserting your personal views. Develop and maintain cordial, effective working relationships with co- workers, legislators, the media, interest group representatives and the public. Attention to detail and adherence to Senate rules and The Ethics Act.
EDUCATION:
Bachelor's degree involving major study in journalism, public relations, communications, political science or a closely related field. Certifications in special job-related skills a plus (e.g. - SEO, digital communications, speech writing, etc.)
EXPERIENCE:
Minimum three years of professional journalism, public relations, or public affairs experience or on the staff of another legislative body.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
- During the official legislative session and other periods when members are on campus, the work environment is fast-paced and can include irregular hours. As a member of the caucus staff, you work collaboratively as a team with the policy, committee, and administrative staff members. Maintaining strong Senate member relations and confidence is a top priority.
- During the interim, travel to your members' districts and engagement and promotion of in-district activity is expected.
- During the legislative session, this position is in-person in Olympia and often requires work outside of the normal 8 am - 5 pm workday, including evenings and weekends.
- During interim, flexible work schedules and remote work are available.
- Must be a Washington State resident or willing to relocate to Washington.
Supplemental Information
COMPENSATION:
RCW 49.58.110 requires employers to provide a full salary range in job postings. The salary range for this position is $6.388 - $11.071 monthly. The hiring salary offered will consider internal equity and will be based on relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. A hiring salary will be less than the top of any range, however.
The Senate offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance; vacation, sick, military, bereavement, and civil leave; twelve paid holidays per year; a state retirement plan; deferred compensation; healthcare flexible spending account; dependent care assistance; infant at work policy, optional credit unions; paid subscription to DeleteMe; and tuition reimbursement.
TO APPLY: Please also attach a cover letter, resume, references and writing sample. E-mail contact Applicants will list their full legal name: first, middle, last. Applicants will also list their current address. Applicants will also list why they want to be part of the Senate Republican Caucus team.
Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the Senate Human Resource Office at
The Washington State Senate is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, physical, sensory, or mental disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the use of a service animal by a person with a disability.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026