Principal Consultant

Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career that is actively working on critical legislation to improve California, address issues in our communities and to meet the needs of all Californians? Consider the California State Senate and be part of an organization that serves to strengthen the State through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity in a high-energy, team-oriented environment, you are encouraged to apply.



BASIC FUNCTIONS :
The State Senate Judiciary Committee (Committee) is seeking candidates for Principal Consultant to serve as Counsel. Applicants must be licensed California attorneys with experience in California's legislative process, and broad legal knowledge of areas within the Committee's jurisdiction. The successful applicant must be able to work under tight deadlines, have flexibility to work nights and weekends as needed, and have the ability to succeed in a fast-paced and high-pressure work environment.



DUTIES :
The Principal Consultant will: draft Committee and floor analyses; negotiate legislation; organize oversight and informational hearings; staff legislation; conduct legal research; engage in oral briefings; and draft memoranda.



DESIRABLE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
Candidates should have broad legal knowledge of areas within the Committee's jurisdiction, including significant experience with identifying and resolving constitutional and statutory issues. The ideal candidate will have significant civil legal and legislative experience, in addition to a working knowledge of California's court system. Candidates should have civil litigation experience. Judicial clerkship experience is preferred.


The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated ability to build and foster relationships with elected officials and their staff; excellent negotiation skills; and the ability to succeed in a fast-paced and high-pressure work environment while working in a cohesive team of Counsel and other legislative staff. Candidates must be able to work nights and weekends as needed to fulfill the job requirements.



EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS :
The candidate must be an active member of the California State Bar and have a J.D.


At least three (3) years relevant experience is required. Five (5) years legislative experience preferred. Please include verification of your degree with your completed application.


Excellent oral and written communication skills, and a strong policy and legislative process background are required.


Candidates must have a background and familiarity with policy and analysis. Candidates must also have experience and knowledge of the legislative and committee process, the ability to maintain a high level of analytical proficiency, and/or the ability to develop strong programmatic expertise. The ability to foster positive working relationships in a team environment is essential.



LOCATION, SALARY AND FILING DATE :
This position is located in Sacramento, CA and requires in person attendance.
Final salary will be commensurate with experience and education. Seniority and significant experience is 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

HOW TO APPLY:
Please use the "Apply Online" button above to apply.


A cover letter and resume are required in addition to the Senate application. NOTE : Please complete the Senate application in as much detail as possible. Include all work history for a complete review of your experience.


If you are unable to complete the online application, please email all required documentation to the contact listed below.


Margie Estrada, Chief Counsel
Senate Judiciary Committee
[email protected]


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] .


The California State Senate values diversity at all levels of the organization and is committed to fostering an environment in which employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. The Senate believes the diversity of our employees and their unique ideas inspire innovative solutions to strengthen our ability to support the legislature. Join the California State Senate and help us support California communities.


Date Posted 2.9.2026