Legislative Editor - Colorado General Assembly

The Office of Legislative Legal Services (OLLS) is recruiting to fill several full-time Legislative Editor positions. The OLLS serves as nonpartisan legal counsel for and provides legal services to the Colorado General Assembly. It serves all legislators elected to the General Assembly equally, without regard to party affiliation or political views.

A Legislative Editor in the OLLS works with OLLS attorneys and other Legislative Editors in the preparation of bills and resolutions, the annual publication of statutes, and the review of executive branch rules. Ideal candidates possess strong editing, writing, and communication skills.

The OLLS does not make or influence policy decisions. OLLS employees do not attempt to influence members of the General Assembly, other state employees, or members of the public regarding policy matters or pending legislation. Given the nonpartisan nature of the OLLS, all employees are prohibited from engaging in certain political activities. Employees are also expected to maintain high ethical and confidentiality standards consistent with OLLS policies.

For more information about the OLLS and the job functions of Legislative Editors, please visit our web site at www.leg.colorado.gov/agencies/office-legislative-legal-services/employment-opportunities

A Legislative Editor performs a variety of functions, both independently and in a team environment. Job functions and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

● Editing legislative bill and resolution drafts and amendments, legal memos, and other written documents for grammar, spelling, punctuation, understanding, and readability;

● Providing constructive feedback to OLLS attorneys and coworkers regarding the editing of bills and other documents;

● Proofreading and examining various materials by reading aloud with another Legislative Editor and inputting revisions into electronic documents;

● Reviewing and preparing the Colorado statutes for publication;

● Drafting resolutions and memorials;

● Performing legal research; and

● Prioritizing multiple tasks, working efficiently within time constraints and deadlines, and handling stressful situations.

A Legislative Editor may also be asked to staff legislative committees or to serve as an amendment clerk in the House or Senate chambers, which involves working directly with legislators and other legislative staff.

The complete job description can be found at:

www.leg.colorado.gov/agencies/office-legislative-legal-services/legislative-editor-job-description

Applicants must possess an undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution of higher education.

The OLLS offers a total compensation package that includes a starting salary ranging from $51,750 - $58,000/year, commensurate with demonstrated qualifications and experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance and short-term disability insurance; employer contributions to retirement; paid leave benefits, including annual vacation leave, sick leave, holidays, and compensatory time; a monthly transit allowance; seasonal flexible work schedules; and optional FSA and HSA accounts. OLLS Legislative Editors may also qualify for a public service loan forgiveness if they meet certain requirements while employed full-time in public service.

The OLLS offers a flexible work environment that is designed to meet the needs of the legislature and allow staff to work remotely throughout the year. During the four-month legislative session (January to May), this position may frequently require in-person work at the State Capitol. During the eight-month legislative interim (May through December), the OLLS offers a hybrid work environment where employees may choose to work remotely or come into the office, although in-person attendance may be required on occasion.

To apply, submit a cover letter expressing interest in the position and a current resume to olwr.ga@state.co.us and include "Legislative Editor" in the subject line of the electronic mail message.

Cover letters and resumes must be received by the OLLS no later than August 21, 2022.

Applicants selected for interviews are also required to complete a formal employment application, including providing at least three professional references, and to complete an editing skills test. A finalist for a Legislative Editor position must pass a basic criminal history record check.

The OLLS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions are based on job related factors.