Description

Deputy Communications Director
Executive Management Division – Olympia
Recruitment # 2020-07-7706
This is a full-time, exempt position.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

Work for Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to promote our efforts to lift up all Washingtonians. This includes informing the public around dynamic topics like wildfire, protecting our lands and waters, boosting rural and urban economies, and renewable energy development.

Our public lands create incredible economic benefit and generate tens of millions of dollars for schools, hospitals, and libraries. Under the leadership of Commissioner Franz, the agency is expanding opportunities that protect our lands and benefit our communities. We want you to help us share how we are pushing the agency forward and maximizing the social, economic, and environmental value of public lands.

The successful candidate will be motivated, creative, hardworking, and have a successful track record of communicating complex issues using a variety of mediums and tools. Writing and editing skills will be an area of expertise.

As Assistant Communications Director, you will supervise a team of 7 – from communications consultants to a social media manger and graphic designer. Effectively managing this team will be critical to your success.

You will be responsible for crafting communications plans, identifying positive media opportunities, pitching stories, editing/writing news releases, editing/developing talking points, coordinating media interviews, and serving as an agency spokesperson when needed. You must be hungry to promote the value and visibility of this agency.

You will provide strategic guidance to agency leadership, including the Communications Director and Commissioner Franz, agency staff, and industry partners to help DNR engage the public and stakeholders.

Expect to help build and manage media events. Expect to bring big, ambitious ideas to life. Expect a fast-paced work environment. Expect to staff Commissioner Franz at key events.

At DNR, you will join a tight-knit team of skilled communicators who work on topics that are incredibly rewarding. You will be empowered to be creative and think boldly, but will always have the support and guidance of the Communications Team. We move fast, and want you to help us make the world a better place. You will work in close proximity to a statewide elected official and will have the opportunity to travel throughout the state and experience our incredible communities. Plus, awesome benefits.

Who are we looking for?

The right candidate has:
Hands-on experience in content management.
Great writing/editing skills following AP Style.
Excellent communication skills.
Advanced knowledge of photo and video editing software.
Knowledge of building a large Facebook and Twitter following.
Familiarity with HTML/WordPress.
Knowledge of SEO, keyword research, and Google Analytics.
Strong familiarity with best practices for the social media accounts of an elected official.
Excellent analytical and time-management skills.
Strong project management skills with ability to supervise multiple projects.
Proficient computer skills, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel).
Ability to work nonstandard hours.
Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing or relevant field.
The incumbent in this position is required to travel.
Must have a valid driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function. Employees who drive for state business, whether in a state or privately-owned vehicle, are required to possess a valid license as defined in policy PO02-006 and abide by all other driver responsibility requirements. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.

Desirable Qualifications:
Experience working for an elected official is preferred, but not required.

The Location

One of the world’s most scenic places, Washington State offers breathtaking discoveries for people who love natural beauty and outdoor recreation, from the Pacific Coast shores to the rugged Cascade Mountains to the rolling hills of the Palouse. Your office will be located in Olympia, Washington on the state capitol campus and minutes from downtown and the South Puget Sound.

Application Process

To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
You must attach the following:
A letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile, required and desired position qualifications, and special position requirements.
A resume including the names of three to five professional references
Carefully review your application materials before submitting. If you fail to submit the required documents or complete the entire online application, you may no longer be considered for the position by the supervisor.

Application Status – once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. Finalists for the position will be contacted by the hiring manager directly. Recruitment may be extended depending on the quantity and quality of the application pool.

Questions? Please email Bobbi Cussins at bobbi.cussins@dnr.wa.gov or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities in a fair and impartial manner for all persons without regard to age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, pregnancy/parental status, genetic information, military status, political affiliation, criminal history or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability. Persons with a disability who need assistance during the screening process or those needing this announcement in an alternative format may contact DNR Recruiting staff (360) 902-1350 or (360) 902-1139. DNR may be contacted using the Washington State Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) by dialing 711.