Responsibilities

• lead and manage SDDOT’s public policy communications, with primary responsibility for implementing the Strategic Communications Plan and achieving agency communication goals;
• foster positive relationships with media outlets by proactively managing news, social media, and other communication platforms to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information;
• identify target audiences and determine optimal platforms and messaging strategies to effectively engage customers and stakeholders;
• oversee external communications, including press releases, speechwriting, talking points, press conferences, social media, agency website, briefing materials, and other communication methodologies;
• coordinate and manage communication during emergency response events during off hours or weekends and holidays, such as winter;
• coordinate and manage public events such as ribbon cuttings, award announcements, and other activities designed to engage SDDOT’s target audiences;
• measure and report outcomes of communication efforts, providing actionable feedback to agency leadership based on public input;
• participate in survey initiatives to assess public perceptions and feedback regarding the agency’s communication effectiveness;
• identify and address issues that may impede the progress of agency communication initiatives;
• collaborate with agency leaders in departmental strategic communications planning;

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing communications, mass communications, public relations, or equivalent professional experience.
• Knowledge of: strategic communications planning; marketing strategy development; public and media relations; customer engagement tactic; editing and copywriting; and issues management.
• Skills: demonstrate excellence in written and oral communication, strong organizational skills, self-motivation, punctuality, and a commitment to public service; proven problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Abilities: communicate effectively; foster team collaboration; lead new objectives and initiatives to ensure delivery of measurable outcomes and return on investment outlined in the departments strategic plan; research and implement innovative communications strategies and techniques.
• The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

Benefits

• The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here .