Climate Policy: Session Aide - Legislative & Policy Specialist (Environmental Planner 1)

About the Department

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

Location

• Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA .
• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule

• This position may be eligible for telework.
• A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. This position is expected to be in the office for a full workday every Tuesday. More may be required, based on business needs.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline

• Apply by 11:59pm on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
• Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

Position Duties

• Do you have an interest in environmental policy? Would you like to help champion climate policy and contribute to moving it through the Washington State legislative process? If so, we hope you'll join our team! As the Session Aide – Legislative & Policy Specialist with the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP), you will support the fast-paced work of the legislative session by coordinating internal bill-tracking activities, managing legislative workflows, conducting policy research, and preparing high-quality materials that inform decision-makers. Working closely with the Senior Legislative Planner, subject matter experts, agency leadership, Governmental Relations, Budget, and legal staff, you will play a key role in ensuring CPRP’s legislative work is accurate, timely, and aligned with program and agency priorities. Key responsibilities include: Tracking legislation, coordinating internal bill analysis workflows in the agency’s legislative tracking platform, and providing technical assistance to staff as needed. Conducting legislative research and preparing summaries, analysis, and draft materials such as bill analyses, fiscal notes, testimony, letters, and presentations. Preparing program staff for legislative meetings, hearings, and work sessions; taking notes and tracking follow-up items. Coordinating with CPRP and Attorney General staff, Governmental Relations, and Budget on bill analyses, fiscal notes, and hearing outcomes. Assisting with the development of implementation plans for recently passed legislation and planning for legislative reports. Supporting scheduling, agenda development, and preparation of materials for internal and external legislative meetings.
• Do you have an interest in environmental policy? Would you like to help champion climate policy and contribute to moving it through the Washington State legislative process? If so, we hope you'll join our team!
• As the Session Aide – Legislative & Policy Specialist with the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP), you will support the fast-paced work of the legislative session by coordinating internal bill-tracking activities, managing legislative workflows, conducting policy research, and preparing high-quality materials that inform decision-makers. Working closely with the Senior Legislative Planner, subject matter experts, agency leadership, Governmental Relations, Budget, and legal staff, you will play a key role in ensuring CPRP’s legislative work is accurate, timely, and aligned with program and agency priorities. Key responsibilities include:
• Tracking legislation, coordinating internal bill analysis workflows in the agency’s legislative tracking platform, and providing technical assistance to staff as needed.
• Conducting legislative research and preparing summaries, analysis, and draft materials such as bill analyses, fiscal notes, testimony, letters, and presentations.
• Preparing program staff for legislative meetings, hearings, and work sessions; taking notes and tracking follow-up items.
• Coordinating with CPRP and Attorney General staff, Governmental Relations, and Budget on bill analyses, fiscal notes, and hearing outcomes.
• Assisting with the development of implementation plans for recently passed legislation and planning for legislative reports.
• Supporting scheduling, agenda development, and preparation of materials for internal and external legislative meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

• For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Communication Skills – Ability to communicate clearly and promptly in writing and verbally to produce accurate, concise, and well-organized legislative materials and updates to support effective program decision-making. Attention to Detail – Demonstrated competence with reviewing and editing bill analyses, correspondence, and meeting materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Legislative Analysis & Research – Ability to research, analyze, and summarize legislation, policies, and related information to support development of bill analyses, fiscal notes, and program implementation planning. Coordination & Information Sharing – Skilled with gathering, organizing, and communicating legislative information to ensure program staff are aware of key hearings, bill progress, follow-up needs, and session priorities. Meeting & Hearing Support – Ability to prepare agendas, materials, and notes for meetings, hearings, and work sessions to support timely responses and effective participation by program staff and managers. Office Software – Experienced in using Microsoft Office applications. Experience must include at least 60 days working for or with a legislative body. Education involving a major study in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, landscape architecture, geography, land use or environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree or above Desired Qualifications: Legislative & Governmental Understanding – Ability to understand and apply Washington State legislative processes and governmental administrative structures to support clear, accurate legislative tracking, analysis, and coordination. Legislative Tracking Systems – Ability to use legislative tracking tools to enter, track, update, and share bill analyses and legislative documents to maintain accurate and accessible session records. Environmental, Climate, and Transportation Policy Awareness – Ability to work with environmental laws, climate policies, transportation policy, transportation fuels, zero-emission vehicle topics, and tools and principles of environmental justice to support meaningful legislative research and document development. Communication & Presentation Skills – Skilled with preparing presentations, talking points, and written materials to convey complex policy, fiscal, or regulatory information clearly, accurately, and effectively. Customer & Constituent Support – Experienced in responding to questions and requests to provide clear, accurate information and support positive interactions through well-crafted responses and support documents. Research & Analytical Skills – Ability to conduct policy or regulatory research, interpret complex directives and regulations, and compile well-organized written reports to support legislative planning and program decision-making. Collaboration & Problem-Solving – Skilled with working collaboratively, following directions, thinking conceptually, and contributing If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.
• For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website .
• Required Qualifications:

Six years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following

• Communication Skills – Ability to communicate clearly and promptly in writing and verbally to produce accurate, concise, and well-organized legislative materials and updates to support effective program decision-making.
• Attention to Detail – Demonstrated competence with reviewing and editing bill analyses, correspondence, and meeting materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, consistency, and completeness.
• Legislative Analysis & Research – Ability to research, analyze, and summarize legislation, policies, and related information to support development of bill analyses, fiscal notes, and program implementation planning.
• Coordination & Information Sharing – Skilled with gathering, organizing, and communicating legislative information to ensure program staff are aware of key hearings, bill progress, follow-up needs, and session priorities.
• Meeting & Hearing Support – Ability to prepare agendas, materials, and notes for meetings, hearings, and work sessions to support timely responses and effective participation by program staff and managers.
• Office Software – Experienced in using Microsoft Office applications.

Experience must include at least 60 days working for or with a legislative body.

Other Qualifications

• Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations. Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued. Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach the following required documents : Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete. For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation : By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed. Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or [email protected] If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Tamara Jones at [email protected] . If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at [email protected] About the Climate Pollution Reduction Program The Climate Pollution Reduction Program's (CPRP) mission is to guide Washington to a net zero future by 2050. We implement policies that encourage businesses and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy. CPRP focuses long-term, requiring creative and strategic decision-making for implementation to achieve broad statewide and interstate success reducing carbon emissions in the state of Washington so residents have a healthy environment and climate. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following : Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver , Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) , Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog . Equal Opportunity Employer : The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining : This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative. Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days. #LI-Hybrid
• Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov .

Our Commitment to DEIR

How to Apply

• Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach the following required documents :
• Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
• Resume
• Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.
• For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website.
• Application Attestation : By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.

Need an Accommodation?

Questions?

Benefits

• 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 WAC 357-31-165 (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 WAC 357-31-165 (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 WAC 357-58-175 , 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 Parental Leave 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

Supplemental Questions