STATE SENATOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

Develop, introduce, or enact laws and statutes at the local, tribal, state, or federal level. Includes only workers in elected positions.

JOB TASKS

  • Analyze and understand the local and national implications of proposed legislation.

  • Appoint nominees to leadership posts, or approve such appointments.

  • Confer with colleagues to formulate positions and strategies pertaining to pending issues.

  • Debate the merits of proposals and bill amendments during floor sessions, following the appropriate rules of procedure.

  • Develop expertise in subject matters related to committee assignments.

ANNUAL SALARY

  • Workers on average earn – $33,200 annual.
  • Projected Growth (2019-2029) Faster than average (5%-7%)
  • Projected job openings (2019-2029) 3900

REQUIRED EDUCATION

High school diploma/GED, Bachelor’s Degree not required

LOCAL CAREER SPOTLIGHT

SENATOR KAREN SPILKA

Being a legislator was the last career I thought I have—and I especially never dreamed of become Massachusetts State Senate President. My path to becoming a state legislator was not straightforward, but I utilize all the skills and experiences I picked up along the way.

I studied French early in my college career, but I eventually shifted my major, and my school, to Cornell University, where I received my bachelor’s in social work. Inspired by my mother who was a social worker, and having grown up in a household with a father with mental illness, I was compelled to help others access the mental and behavioral health care services we all deserve.

My path eventually led me back to school, this time to Northeastern University to become a lawyer specializing in labor and employment law, as well as arbitration and mediation. I loved being able to combine everything I learned as a social worker with these new skills. I’ve always believed that you can accomplish big things when you welcome everyone to the same table.

I stayed true to that value after I moved to Ashland and got involved in fighting for more equity, adequacy, predictability and simplicity in way the public K-12 schools are funded in Massachusetts—my first foray into statewide advocacy. This led me to run for office, first as a member of the House of Representatives and then as a state Senator. As Senate President in 2019, I was proud to help pass the bill that would finally reform how our public schools are funded so that every district has the resources it needs, regardless of zip code.

I may have started my career as a social worker to help people, but I’m happy to say that I still help people today as Senate President, mostly by bringing people together to tackle big problems. It’s what motivates me every day. Representing the people of the Commonwealth is one of the greatest privileges and responsibilities I can think of, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do it every day.

REFLECT ON THE CAREER

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RESOURCES

O*NET ONLINE

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OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK

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MY NEXT MOVE

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STEP THREE – PLAN

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