Communications Consultant

Description

The State Auditor’s Office offers a chance for you to make a difference in how government operates. During these uncertain times, our audit work and non-audit services are more important than ever. Governments in Washington are navigating historic cross-currents – a sudden influx of emergency federal funding and a steep drop in local tax revenue. Transparency is essential, and our work plays a key role in providing this, as well as offering essential guidance and support to the governments we serve.

Reporting to the Director of Communications while "embedded" within the Center for Government Innovation, this position is responsible for managing communications and marketing of The Center across multiple platforms. This includes creation and/or editing and basic design of brand stories, resources, brochures, training materials, scripts, multi-media presentations, videos and others as conceived, that serve the Center’s needs while reflecting the brand direction of the Office of the Washington State Auditor.

This position will develop then execute short- and medium-term communication campaigns, in coordination with the agency’s overall marketing efforts. The goal of these campaigns will be to inform state and local government agencies about the Center’s products and services, as well as demonstrate that the Center’s work is essential to the Office’s vision of increased trust in government.

It is anticipated that this position will be filled at the Communications Consultant 3 level, with the potential to be filled as a Communications Consultant 4.

SAO offers a rare opportunity to work in a government environment that is high profile but also even paced. While we have high expectations for the depth and quality of work, we are also able to manage our project schedules to sustain a healthy work/life balance.

To learn more about our agency, the work we do, and the opportunities here for you, visit our website at http://www.sao.wa.gov/.

Duties

This position acts as the primary editor and contributing writing of Center articles, scripts, resources, presentations, brochures, newsletters, conference handouts and other materials for the "plain talk" and language that is appropriate for the audience. Duties include:

Execute communications strategies to raise the profile of Center for Government Innovation’s programs, services, experts, and mission as developed by leadership of the Center and Director of Communications

Collaborate with and advise Center staff on how to develop and format materials that help Washington governments reduce costs, solve problems and improve performance and address their changing needs and emerging issues

Collaborate with and advise Center staff on how to gather and format materials that effectively tell local government stories of struggles and success, such as case studies and testimonials suited to a various audiences including local elected officials, state legislators and other policymakers, state agency leaders, the news media and the public

Work as the primary writer and editor of internal communications to announce new and updated Center’s projects and services on the agency Intranet, Weekly Manger Communication and other internal communication channels

Work as the primary project manager for the Center’s resource database. Oversee regular content review and needed updates of embedded links in Center tools and resources. Establish and maintain publication plans and schedules, to be coordinated with other communications projects and efforts.

Work collaboratively with the Graphic Design Lead in developing and executing visual communication strategies that cross multiple platforms, including newsletters, brochures, multi-media presentations, videos and others as conceived that support the work of the Center.

Coordinate with the Digital Marketing and Communications Lead to develop, design, and format visually-engaging materials for website, social media and other electronic platform distribution that enhance the Center’s online presence

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in English, communication, journalism, public relations, marketing or related field.
AND
At least three year’s experience developing, producing and posting materials in print and online, as well as leading ad-hoc teams to create original informational campaigns for targeted audiences for a private or public sector company, corporation, government agency or other organization.

The most successful candidate will have:

The ability to work independently and take personal initiative to plan and organize their own work day, assignments and tasks

Thorough grounding in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and SharePoint, and Adobe products, including inDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator

A strong understanding of communications industry trends

Skills that are welcome but not required:

Training and demonstrated skills in conceiving and producing video materials and social media content

Basic competencies in WordPress as a CMS and blog software

Skills in data visualization

Supplemental Information

Benefits of Working for the State of Washington and the State Auditor’s Office (SAO)

As a full-time State employee you accrue vacation (12-22 days per year) and sick leave (1 day per month). Full-time employees are entitled to 11 paid holidays. You and your family members are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. As a new employee you will have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs to enroll in. We also offer paid training programs, flexible schedules and shared commuter options.

As a Washington State employee you will also enjoy other benefits and discounts from various companies. Here are a few:

WGU Washington is proud to offer a special discount for Washington state employees. As a Washington state employee, you are entitled to a 5 percent discount on our already affordable tuition rates for your first two terms!

Discounts on phone services through Verizon, AT&T and Sprint.

Ability to take advantage of the Home Use Program, allowing you to get selected Microsoft software at a reduced price.

Application Process:

To be considered, applicants must submit a completed application and letter of interest detailing how your training or experience meets the qualifications listed.

Degrees awarded outside the United States must include a credential evaluation report.

If you are a US Veteran and would like to apply for Veteran’s Preference, attach a copy of Form DD214 military record showing honorable discharge.

Questions may be directed to the applications unit at applicationsunit@sao.wa.gov

The Office of the Washington State Auditor is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability, who need assistance in the application or testing process, or who need this announcement in an alternative format, may call (564) 999-0947 or via the telecommunications relay service by dialing 7-1-1.