Legislative Intern Job Description
A legislative intern assists a legislator in fulfilling obligations to the public. He does this by carrying out administrative tasks, research, and public relations as well as communication duties. A legislative intern works under the legislator, the chief clerk and the caucus staff director.
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Education and Qualifications
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In order to qualify to work as a legislative intern, it is fundamental that a person have a Bachelor of Arts degree. This should be in Political Science, Economics, International Relations, Business, Public Policy and Administration.
Responsibilities and Duties
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A legislative intern is responsible for writing and researching on different issues. She writes and edits letters responding to queries. She attends all briefings and hearings in her assigned area of work. She also does administrative tasks that are required. She runs the office’s daily operations and manages the legislator's schedules, ensuring that all relative arrangements for meetings and travel are made. When assigned, she supervises volunteers. She is responsible for the management of casework, and acts as a connection between the legislator and the rest of the legislative. She keeps track of all expenses that are incurred when working on a project. She can also act as a representative of the legislator in various events.
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Desirable Skills and Abilities
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Good communication skills are important to work as a legislative intern. He should have excellent personnel and office management skills, coupled with outstanding verbal and written communication skills. He should be able to draft letters and memos that the legislator can use when making speeches. He should have a keen eye for detail as well as be able to maintain organization in the office. He should be able to maintain confidentiality on matters pertaining to clients. He should be self-motivated and able to work without supervision. He should also have good interpersonal skills as he is expected to work with other people. He should be able to multitask as well as carry out thorough research on all cases he is dealing with. He has to have proficiency with computers, and should be familiar with the judicial, administrative and legislative systems.
Job Outlook
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The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that opportunities for legislative interns are above average. However, there is much competition for these positions as many people wish to become legislative interns. Legislative intern positions are projected to grow at the rate of 28 percent between 2008 and 2018. This is above the average for many other occupations.
Compensation
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According to PayScale, a legislative intern earns an annual salary that ranges between $29,566 and $41,356. This is inclusive of all bonuses earned.
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References
- Photo Credit Legal Law Justice image by Stacey Alexander from Fotolia.com communication 2 image by indochine from Fotolia.com
