Communications Director
Recruitment #2021-05-2935
This is a Full-time, Exempt position.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Executive Division.

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 about dynamic topics like wildfire, protecting our lands and waters, and boosting rural and urban economies.

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.

As Communications Director, you will supervise a dynamic team of communicators – from a deputy director and 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. And you must have exceptional writing and editing abilities.

This position reports to the Chief of Staff and is part of the agency’s Executive Leadership Team.

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. 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. (Visit careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information).

Expect to build and manage media events. Expect to bring big, ambitious ideas to life. Expect to provide strategic guidance to agency leadership and the Commissioner. Expect a fast-paced work environment. Expect to frequently staff Commissioner Franz at media or speaking events.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience successfully executing high-priority, high profile communications projects using a variety of mediums and tools.
• Exceptional writing/editing skills. Demonstrated ability to write for targeted audiences effectively and to communicate persuasively at all levels.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to supervise multiple projects and build a cohesive, unified team. Strong analytical and time-management skills.
• Strong problem solving skills, creative thinking ability, and vision.
• Innovative mindset and approach.
• Strong background in event planning and event management.
• A strong work ethic and commitment to public service. Ability to work nonstandard hours.
• Experience working for an elected official or high-level executive.
• Proficient computer skills – e.g., Microsoft Office Suite.
• A Bachelor’s Degree or higher in political science, communications, journalism, marketing, or another field relevant to the position’s responsibilities; or equivalent experience.
• A valid driver’s license.

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 on the state capital campus and minutes from downtown. This position also has the option of a hybrid in-office/work-from-home schedule.  For more information on this area visit, http://olympiawa.gov.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 
Our mission is to manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs economically and socially for current and future generations. At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity and inclusion. With nearly 1,500 employees in locations throughout Washington, we manage and protect more than 5 million acres of state-owned forest, range, commercial, agricultural and aquatic lands.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of those include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• A comprehensive benefit package that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.

How to Apply: 
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.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524-5627 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

Application Requirements:

• Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile and the position required, desired and special requirements.
• Attach a resume describing your experience and qualifications.
• Provide three to five professional references – you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include with resume.
• Complete all supplemental questions.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22 or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching.  We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Persons needing accommodation during the screening process or this announcement in an alternative format may contact DNR Recruiting staff at (360) 522-2500 or (360) 522-0143 or by email at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.  Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington State Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) at 1-800-833-6388 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

DNR is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.

Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress

Questions?  Please contact Anna Borris at anna.borris@dnr.wa.gov or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov