BASIC FUNCTIONS: The Chief of Staff will perform duties, including but not limited to, directing, coordinating, and supervising the daily and long-term operations of the Senator's Capitol and District offices; will also serve as the Senator's top public policy and budget advisor; will serve as the primary contact and liaison with Senate Rules offices and departments, as necessary. The Chief of Staff will also act as the Senate's personnel manager for the office and will serve as the liaison to Human Resources on all personnel matters.
DUTIES: The Chief of Staff is the primary supervisor for both Capitol Office and District Office staff. The Chief, in coordination with the Legislative Director, helps to develop the Member's legislation and policy priorities; analyzes legislation; provides policy recommendations; prepares briefings for the Senator on key legislative and district issues; and oversees the District Coordinator and district activities. The Chief will develop and implement office procedures, mentor staff, maintain office attendance, and handle personnel requests.
DESIRABLE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Excellent research, oral, and written communication skills are required, along with the ability to manage multiple projects, work well under deadlines, embrace a team-oriented philosophy and environment and have knowledge of best practices for supervising employees. The ideal candidate will be able to analyze complex policy issues and "think outside the box" to solve problems and propose solutions. The ideal candidate will be effective at coalition building; politically astute; discrete when necessary; comfortable with disagreement and debate; and open to learning. Candidates should thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic office, and be comfortable juggling multiple priorities. Candidates must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; design, manage, and evaluate programs; and maintain a cooperative and effective working relationship with the staff and the Senator. Knowledge of the Senate's personnel rules, policies and best practices on staff supervision, sexual harassment, and Equal Employment Opportunities is helpful.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree required. Please include verification of your degree with your completed application.
At least five (5) years
relevant experience, three (3) years minimum direct legislative experience, excellent oral and written communication skills, and a strong policy and legislative process background are required. At least two (2) years supervisory experience required.
Before being hired, incumbents for this position may be required to participate in the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Employee Pull Notice Program and must complete a DMV Form INF 1101, which authorizes the release of the incumbent's driving record to the Senate Rules Committee. Those who drive on legislative business must carry a valid driver's license and proof of liability insurance at all times. NOTE: Information from your driving record will be shared with the hiring supervisor which may impact your hiring status.
LOCATION, HOURS, SALARY AND FILING DATE: This position is located in Sacramento, CA and requires in person attendance .
The Senate's core business hours are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and may require after hours or weekend work.
Final salary will be commensurate with experience and education. Seniority and significant experience are required to reach the higher end of the salary range.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
BENEFITS: The Senate offers a competitive benefits package, which includes:
- Health
- Dental
- Vision
- California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
- 401(k) and 457 plans
- Flexible spending accounts
SUBMIT COVER LETTER, RESUME, AND SENATE APPLICATION VIA EMAIL TO : Senate Human Resources
[email protected]
The Senate application form is available through the Senate job webpage: www.senate.ca.gov/senatejobs
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodation(s) if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding or requests for reasonable accommodations may be directed to Senate Human Resources at [email protected] .
Date Posted 8/24/2026
