Government Relations State and Regional Affairs Coordinator

Multnomah County seeks a talented professional for the position of Government Relations State and Regional Affairs Coordinator in the Office of Government Relations. This is a fast-paced position that requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills and strong writing. As the State and Regional Affairs Coordinator, you will work with elected leaders and staff from local governments within and around Multnomah County and lobby members of the Oregon Legislature to further the mission of the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners.

The position also serves as a state legislative analyst and political advisor to Multnomah County staff and the Board of County Commissioners.

• Develop an outreach plan and maintain relationships with area local governments and community advocacy organizations
• Collaborate with state legislators, state agencies, local governments and interest groups to get legislation introduced, defeated, modified or passed by the Oregon legislature and signed by the Governor
• Monitor hearings, meetings, and other legislative activities in state, regional and local government
• Utilize bill tracking management software to track, analyze, research, issue spot, and interpret legislation in order to provide legislative updates for commissioners and departments
• Advise the Government Relations team and Board when formulating strategies for a wide range of complex and politically sensitive legislative issues informed by community, local, regional and state relationships
• Represent Multnomah County at hearings, meetings, regional policy tables and other legislative activities, including drafting and delivering testimony
• Work internally with elected and departmental leaders to develop county positions on complex issues that reflect internal and sometimes competing priorities

• You are familiar with using an equity or racial justice lens in decision making processes and knowledgeable about the principles and practices of collaborative decision-making; you have experience facilitating and engaging in conversations about race, social justice, economic mobility and/or other intersectional experiences that play a critical role in engaging a diverse community
• Knowledge of legislative or local government processes and protocols
• Experience working with and lobbying elected officials
• Excellent and effective communication skills, including outstanding writing skills
• Demonstrated skill in collaborating with staff, community stakeholders or public officials to advance the County's agenda
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to manage stress and remain flexible in a changing environment
• Passion for County issues
• Knowledge of communications portals and web-based resources for legislative activity
• Have knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply relevant sections of local, regional, state, and federal mandates
• Knowledge of Multnomah County government, its mandates and functions, and familiarity with the regional and local policy issues and challenges that affect Multnomah County is a plus
• Ability to conduct an analysis of issues and policies with an equity lens and in accordance with County values and priorities
• Ability to remain objective in a political environment and to properly handle private and confidential matters

Who we are, what we do, where we work, and why it matters.

At Multnomah County, our top priority is to meet the many needs of our residents. We provide a wide array of essential services in the areas of health, community justice, roads, elections, libraries, jails, bridges, tax and assessment, records, animal services, mental health and addiction services, and more.

The county and its departments are governed by our non-partisan, publicly-elected Board of County Commissioners. The board is made up of four commissioners representing their respective districts and the Chair, who serves as the chief executive officer for the County. Our diverse, dynamic workforce consists of more than 6,000 employees whose work collectively touches every person who lives, works or does business in Multnomah County.

We value a culture of inclusivity, sustainability and innovation, and we continuously strive to improve the quality of life for County employees and residents alike. When you work for Multnomah County, you will make a positive impact on the community, no matter what position you hold.

We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific about how your background is relevant.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of relevant experience
• 1-2 years of experience working in a local government, legislative and/or public policy-making position
• Familiarity working with community groups, government entities, or elected officials
• Demonstrated experience effectively communicating…