Legislative Support Specialist and Special Assistant to the Secretary

Agency

Dept of Transportation

Division

Secretary

Job Classification Title

Program Coordinator III (NS)

Position Number

60030770

Grade

NC12

About Us

It’s the mission of the NC Department of Transportation to connect people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability, and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina. We encourage you to consider joining NCDOT where our work not only serves the citizens of North Carolina but has an impact on our world through all modes of transportation.

Description of Work

Please note that all positions close at 12:00 AM on the posted closing date. You must apply by 11:59 PM prior to the posted closing date.

The Legislative Support Specialist and Special Assistant to the Secretary is an important role within the Legislative Affairs Office at NCDOT, designed for an early-career professional seeking hands-on experience in government, public policy, and executive operations.

Reporting to the Legislative Affairs Director, this position serves as a primary point of contact for constituent concerns related to NCDOT and NCDMV, ensuring timely, accurate, and effective resolution. The role coordinates across divisions within the department to gather information, assess needs, and implement solutions in alignment with agency policies and procedures. The role also conducts research and outreach as needed to support the legislative affairs team.

In addition, this position serves as a special assistant to the Secretary of Transportation, providing support in external engagements as necessary, and helping ensure follow-through on key priorities. This includes driving and traveling with the Secretary as needed and capturing key takeaways and ensuring timely follow-up with internal teams and external partners.
This role offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to senior leadership, legislative strategy, and the operations of a large state agency while contributing meaningfully to its success.

Key Responsibilities:

•Manage constituent cases from intake through resolution, ensuring responsiveness, accuracy, and accountability.
•Serve as a connector between constituents, legislative offices, and NCDOT staff.
•Track, monitor, and summarize legislation and committee activity relevant to the department.
•Coordinate required legislative reports, including tracking deadlines and facilitating internal review and submission to the Legislature.
•As needed, work closely with the Secretary’s team to support engagements, particularly those that require travel. This includes driving the Secretary and assisting with prep and follow-up.
•Collaborate across teams to align messaging and policy priorities for constituent responses.
Applicants with the following are encouraged to apply:
•Strong interest in government, public policy, or legislative affairs.
•Exceptional organization and attention to detail
•Strong written and verbal communication skills.
•Initiative and a willingness to take ownership in a fast-paced environment.
•Comfort working directly with senior leadership and representing the department externally.
•Knowledge of the legislative process and governmental affairs is a plus, but not a requirement.

The program area for this position includes one or more of the following: working knowledge of legislative affairs, experience working as a liaison between management teams, experience working with constituents, working knowledge of a broad range of NCDOT policies and procedures, and/or experience directly supporting senior staff members with calendar and assignment coordination.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Salary Grade and Salary Range:  NC12 $47,703 - $83,479

Management prefers applicants with the following:

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.  

• Demonstrated ability to think critically, synthesize information quickly, and follow through on next steps.  

• Experience maintaining confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive constituent matters. 
• Experience composing written communication for a diverse audience

Minimum Education and Experience

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution and two (2) years of experience related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

Recruiter:

Phagan Joe Hudson

Email:

DOT-WorkdayJobRecruitment@ncdot.gov