Job Description

The Michigan Sentencing Commission (MSC) was created in the Legislative Council by Public Act 273 of 2024. The duties of the MSC, which are described in MCL 769.34b, include making recommendations for modifications to the sentencing guidelines and conducting research on the sentencing guidelines and state and local sentencing and release policies. Additionally, the MSC has the authority to "recommend modifications to any law that affects sentencing or the use and length of incarceration."
The MSC's chief of staff will consult regularly with the chair of the MSC, supervise staff members of the MSC, and furnish information to the sentencing commissioners, the Legislature, and the Executive Branch. The MSC's chief of staff will also coordinate research projects, engage with stakeholders in the development of sentencing and imprisonment policies, and oversee the preparation of periodic reports of the MSC's activities.
The chief of staff serves in a nonpartisan role with the Michigan Sentencing Commission and the Legislative Council.
Required Education and Experience
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or criminology required.
• 2-4 years of previous professional experience in criminal law required.
• A background in data collection, data analysis, and data reporting required.
• Excellent oral and interpersonal communication skills required for effective communication with members of the Legislature and other government leaders.
• Strong organizational skills required.
• Previous experience with state statutes, state government operations, and the legislative process helpful.
• Prior management experience desirable.
• Must be willing and able to occasionally work overtime and irregular hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Additional Requirements and Information
Online applications only are being accepted through the State of Michigan's NEOGOV job posting website at .
Applicants must include the following three items as separate attachments in the online application for full consideration: * Cover letter outlining interest and qualifications addressed to Christopher P. Yates, MSC Chair.

• Resume.
• A copy of college transcripts.

The deadline to apply is 5:00 pm on Sunday, December 21, 2025.
The Legislative Council is a nonpartisan legislative information and service agency. This is an unclassified, non-Civil Service position in State government. All Legislative Council employees are considered "at-will," except for LSB Printing Division union members. Employees are required to be non-partisan and maintain confidentiality.
This job is located at Boji Tower, 124 W. Allegan Street, Lansing, Michigan.
For job-related questions, call the Legislative Service Bureau Human Resources Office at (517) 373-9643.
For technical support with your online application, call NeoGov Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627.
Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State employment benefits include everything from health insurance to retirement income and are worth about 40% of your salary. Employee premiums shares are required for most insurances.
This page gives a brief explanation of some of the benefits that are provided by the Legislative Council. See details on these and other employment information.
Leave Time
Full-time employees receive between 15 and 35 vacation leave days per year and13 sick days per year.
Holidays
Legislative Council employees receive 13 scheduled holidays each year.
Alternative Work Schedules
Flexible work schedules are available in some jobs. Flexible schedules may be limited to certain time periods per year.
Insurance and Other Benefits
Insurances include health, vision, dental and life. Employees also have the option to purchase voluntary insurances for additional life, accidental death, long term disability, long term care, and legal services, to name a few. Premiums vary for these insurances. Flexible spending accounts for medical expenses and child care are also available.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may invest income in a tax-deferred retirement investment program. The state offers two optional deferred compensation plans, the 457 and 401(k). Employees decide the amount deducted from each paycheck.
Retirement
Employees receive a minimum 4% state contribution toward their defined contribution retirement fund. If an employee elects to contribute more, the state will match that percentage (up to 3%).

Skills Required