Responsibilities

• Write, Editing, and Editorial Leadership – Serve as the division’s principal writer and editor for communications supporting DWDAL’s workforce programs, policies, and initiatives.
• Produce high-quality written products, including executive speeches, event remarks, briefing documents, talking points, key messages, press releases, newsletters, website and social media content, and other communications products.
• Translate complex workforce policies, legislation, technical information, and program information into clear, concise, and compelling communications that effectively convey the importance and impact of DWDAL programs.
• Review, edit, and provide editorial guidance on communications developed by staff to ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency, and alignment with agency messaging, branding, and editorial standards.
• Ensure all written and digital content meets plain language principles and complies with Section 508, WCAG, and ADA accessibility requirements.
• Strategic Communications Planning and Project Management – Develop and implement strategic communications plans in support of the priorities and direction established by the Director of Communications.
• Develop messaging frameworks and recommend communications approaches, audience targeting, sequencing, and implementation strategies for workforce programs and initiatives.
• Coordinate communications planning across DWDAL program offices to promote consistent messaging and effective delivery of program information.
• Anticipate communications needs related to program launches, policy changes, grant announcements, events, milestones, and leadership priorities.
• Manage multiple communications projects by establishing timelines, coordinating resources, monitoring progress, and ensuring deliverables are completed on schedule.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• At least eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, journalism, public relations, marketing, digital communications, or a related field, including at least six (6) years of supervisory experience.
• Notes: The following experience can be substituted in lieu of a bachelor's degree: At least ten years of experience of professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, journalism, public relations, marketing, digital communications, or a related field, including at least eight (8) years of supervisory experience, and at least eight (8) years of developing and implementing strategic communications plans and messaging frameworks plus eight (8) years serving as a principal writer.

Preferred

• Five (5) or more years of experience serving as a principal or lead writer for executive speeches, remarks, briefing documents, talking points, press releases, newsletters, and other public-facing communications.
• Five (5) or more years of experience translating complex government programs, policies, legislation, or technical information into clear, plain-language communications that tell compelling stories and engage diverse audiences.
• Three (3) or more years of experience developing and reviewing digital and written communications to ensure compliance with Section 508, WCAG, and ADA accessibility requirements.
• Professional proficiency in both English and Spanish.

Benefits

• Flexible hours and hybrid teleworking
• 12-13 paid holidays per year
• Paid leave, including annual, sick, personal, and compensatory
• State Pension (“defined benefit” plan).
• Tax-deferred supplemental retirement savings plans - 401(k) and 457
• Comprehensive subsidized health, dental, and prescription plans with little to no deductibles, free generic subscriptions, and free preventive health services.
• Flexible Spending Account plans for Health Care and Daycare
• Free mass transit benefit
• State Employees Credit Union