Communications Manager (WMS1)

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Communications Manager (WMS1)

Salary

$64,000.00 - $86,000.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County – Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

2021-ARTS-005

Department

Arts Commission

Opening Date

12/08/2021

Closing Date

1/5/2022 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

This position is assigned to our Olympia location; however, most positions are currently teleworking daily due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

**This posting has been reopened and extended.  If you've previously applied, you need not reapply.  
Application review will begin immediately.  The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time.**

Work hours are typically 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Alternative and telework options are available.
 
**Special Note:  We encourage everyone to apply, but please note that currently ARTSWA is unable to accommodate relocation reimbursements.
 
Who we are:
The mission of the Washington State Arts Commission, also known as ArtsWA, is to be a catalyst for the arts, advancing the role of the arts in the lives of individuals and communities throughout the state. We have a particular interest in serving diverse populations and increasing equity and access in the arts. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit our website www.arts.wa.gov to gain insight into the agency's mission and strategic plan.
  
What you will be doing:
In addition to supervising the Communications Consultant 2 position, you will plan, develop, and implement extensive information and public relations communication plans/activities based on the internal and external needs and goals of the agency. You will also serve as ArtsWA’s public records officer and legislative liaison, with responsibility for tracking bills and advising agency staff and board on key issues.
 
In concert with executive management, you will establish communications priorities, identify communication needs, and develop/facilitate products, or projects to address those needs. You will serve as the agency contact for media, the communications manager will field all inquiries, work with subject matter experts on talking points, information requests, and set timelines for responses as well as manage communication’s assets such as photos, videos, audio files, and archives.  You will be managing agency publications, newsletters, website, press releases, and social media presence as well as produce tools such as charts, graphs, briefing papers, and surveys to assist staff and commissioners in performing their jobs more effectively.  
 
You will also conduct and coordinate research and evaluation of legislation, briefing papers, and industry surveys; facilitate the communication needs of agency programs; manage budgets; respond to and track public requests for information according to the Washington State Public Records Act; serve as Legislative liaison and is responsible for tracking and reporting on legislation that affects the agency and the arts and cultural sector in the state; manage contract for graphics design services; develop crisis and risk communication strategies; develop policies for the agency’s web presence; manage requests for public information; evaluates effectiveness of implemented communications strategies.
 
Who we are looking for:
The work you will do requires strong attention to details and the ability to manage multiple overlapping projects and deadlines. You must understand the importance of adhering to deadlines. You must appreciate the importance of relationship building as you will be interacting with a diversity of constituents, partners, and stakeholders across the state.
 
Why YOU would be interested in this position:
Your work will help provide information and support for agency activities focused on the arts, cultural and creative economy sectors of Washington State.
 
Because we are a small agency, you will have opportunities to develop, grow, and become deeply involved in ArtsWA’s mission and vision.  We work hard and enjoy what we do, while maintaining pride in our work. We are busy year-round.
 
If this position fits your experience and you would like a job with a variety of duties and projects to hone your skills, we encourage you to apply.  

Duties

In short, you will be responsible for the agency’s communications, marketing and customer relations policy and implementation. You will support the agency’s mission by developing and implementing effective communications of services and opportunities available to constituents; surveying the arts sector stage to provide director and staff with a deeper understanding of the needs of the state to inform program development; and ensure internal and external communications are clear, using an equity lens.
 
Your primary responsibilities are to develop and enforce agency branding standards, provide graphic, photographic, video and web design services, manage digital platforms and serve as content creator for web properties and other digital communication platforms. As the agency’s contact for media, you will field all inquiries, work with subject matter experts on talking points, information requests, and set timelines for responses. You will develop and implement media campaigns for special projects as well as support media needs during board meetings and advise the board on interactions with the Legislature.
 
 Some of what you will enjoy doing includes:

  • Provides leadership, vision and direction on the agency’s high-level communication strategy
  • Serves as the agency’s brand manager, develops and implements brand guidelines ensuring a consistent brand 
  • Ensures compliance with graphic standards throughout the agency; ensures compliance with all state and federal laws
  • Develops policy and strategy for, creates, and manages agency publications, newsletters, websites, press releases, and social media presence
  • Advises agency director, staff, commission on public information strategies; develops key messages; and coordinates information dissemination with appropriate local, state and federal officials
  • Produces tools such as charts, graphs, briefing papers, and surveys to provide staff and commissioners with communications tools to perform their jobs more effectively
  • Develops, conducts, and coordinates agency research and evaluation for strategic planning surveys and other surveys as directed by the Agency Director
  • Facilitates the communication needs of agency programs including granting and other opportunities for constituents, and produces a monthly newsletter
  • Researches, negotiates, and manages contracts for graphics design services
  • Develops policies for the agency’s web presence
  • Manages agency communications assets, such as photos, videos, audio files and archives
  • Evaluates effectiveness of implemented communications strategies and develops improvement policies
  • Advises the director on needed resources, assets, and people to meet future communications needs and challenges
  • Develops crisis and risk communication strategies
  • Develops media campaigns and manages special events and projects for the agency, including the annual Governor’s Arts and Heritage Awards, Poetry Out Loud annual competition, the agency’s Annual Report, and other programs
  • Works with the non-profit organization, Humanities Washington, to help promote and market co-supported programs, such as the Washington State Poet Laureate program and the Center for Washington Cultural Traditions
  • Serves as legislative liaison and is responsible for tracking and reporting on legislation that affects the agency and the arts and cultural sector in the state; coordinates research and evaluation of legislation and develops applicable briefing papers 
Responds to and tracks public requests for information according to the Washington State Public Records Act

Qualifications

REQUIRED
A Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism or closely allied field, policy development,
AND 
At least five (5) years of professional experience in communications, journalism, public relations or related experience
 
NOTE:  Combination of equivalent experience and education may be substituted for educational requirement
 
AND

  • Two years of experience using communications hardware and software in a business setting, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, Indesign, audio and video equipment, and digital cameras
  • Five years of experience of written and oral communication skills including the ability to interpret legislation, write speeches, briefing papers, or reports
  • Five years working in communications and professional understanding of professional media practices. This will include managing a website and generating web and social media content in a professional setting
  • Experience can be gained concurrently
  • High level communications skills
  • Attention to detail: Proofreading, editing, layout for print and online
  • Communicating complex facts to a broad audience; written, oral, and on-line presentations
  • Proficiency in crafting messages for varied audiences
PREFERRED:
  •  Familiarity with the state and/or federal legislative process
  • Knowledge of the arts or arts administration
  • Five or more years managing a website and generating web content in a professional setting
  • Experience using social networking technologies in a professional setting
  • Three or more years of experience in crisis communications and strategic planning
  • Five or more years of project management experience, including building and monitoring a budget
  • Knowledge of new technologies including online meetings tools, social media, webinars, online survey tools, and data collection/analysis
  • Advanced understanding of desktop publishing and graphic design concepts
  • Master’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism or closely allied field
  • Professional communications experience in management or arts administration
  • Knowledge of Washington State government
  • Ability to interpret and analyze narrative, budget and statistical information and to convey such information effectively to various audiences using written, graphic and oral communication
  • Research and information gathering
  • Media relations
  • Proficiency and experience with print and web publishing platforms
  • Experience as an agency spokesperson
  • Some graphic design and desktop publishing experience. 
  • Strategic thinking and planning
  • Advanced program management skills Negotiation and dispute resolution
  • Managing public perception and risk management
  • Managing all public records requests
  • Conducting public meetings, public process, state ethics laws and standards; working with a commission/board of directors; the decision-making structures of the state’s institutions
  • Grant-writing to state and federal agencies


Supplemental Information


Please provide the following documents in order to be considered; failure to do so may result in you not being considered for the position:

  • A letter of interest, describing how you meet the qualifications for this position as outlined in the job posting; 
  • A current resume, detailing experience and education; and 
  • A current list of at least three (3) professional references with current contact information (attached or available to provide at the time of interview)
NOTE:  By submitting these materials, you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.  A resume will not substitute for completing the “duties summary” section of the application.  Please do not refer to resume for detail, or your application may be disqualified.  

Condition of Employment:
COVID Vaccination Requirement: Per Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 21-14(Download PDF reader), state employees must be fully vaccinated no later than October 18, 2021, as a condition of employment. Being fully vaccinated means that an individual is at least two weeks past their final dose of an authorized COVID-19 vaccine regimen. If you are a selected candidate, you will be required to provide proof of vaccination. You may request an accommodation if you are unable to meet the requirement due to a medical or religious necessity.  

Opportunity for All: 
The Washington State Arts Commission  celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws.
 
You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.
 
Contact Information:
Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.
 
For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Angie Anderson at (360) 407-8446 or email jobs@des.wa.gov.  

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
What is your level of education
  • Some or no college
  • 1 year of college (30 semester or 45 quarter credits)
  • Associate's degree OR 2 years of college (60 semester or 90 quarter credits)
  • 3 years of college (90 semester or 135 quarter credits)
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in communications, public relations, journalism or closely allied field, policy development, AND IT experience
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in an unrelated field
02
How many months of professional experience do you have in communications, journalism, public relations, or related experience?
  • 0-11 months
  • 12-23 months
  • 24-35 months
  • 36-47 months
  • 48-59 months
  • 60-71 months
  • 72-83 months
  • 84-95 months
  • 96-107 months
  • 108-119 months
  • 120 months or more
03
Select ALL you have experience:
  • At least 2 years of experience using communications hardware and software in a business setting, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, Indesign, audio and video equipment, and digital cameras
  • At least 5 years of experience of written and oral communication skills including the ability to interpret legislation, write speeches, briefing papers, or reports
  • At least 5 years working in communications and professional understanding of professional media practices. This will include managing a website and generating web content in a professional setting
  • High-level communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail: Proofreading, editing, layout for print and online
  • Communicating complex facts to a broad audience: Written, oral, and online presentations
  • Proficiency in crafting messages for varied audiences
  • None of these apply
04
Select those you have experience with:
  • Familiarity with the state and/or federal legislative process
  • Knowledge of the arts or arts administration
  • Experience using social networking technologies in a professional setting
  • Three or more years of experience in crisis communications and strategic planning
  • Five or more years of project management experience, including building and monitoring a budget
  • Knowledge of new technologies including online meetings tools, social media, webinars, online survey tools, and data collection/analysis
  • Advanced understanding of desktop publishing and graphic design concepts
  • Master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism or closely allied field
  • Professional communications experience in management or arts administration
  • Knowledge of Washington State government
  • None of these apply
05
Select those you have experience with:
  • Ability to interpret and analyze narrative, budget and statistical information and to convey such information effectively to various audiences using written, graphic and oral communication
  • Media relations
  • Proficiency and experience with print and web publishing platforms
  • Experience as an agency spokesperson
  • Some graphic design and desktop publishing experience.
  • Advanced program management skills
  • Negotiation and dispute resolution
  • Managing public perception and risk management
  • Managing all public records requests
  • Conducting public meetings, public process, state ethics laws and standards; working with a commission/board of directors; the decision-making structures of the state's institutions
  • Grant-writing to state and federal agencies
  • None of these apply
06
How did you hear about this job posting?
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • College Job Board
  • Friend
  • Indeed
  • Job Fair
  • Job Board
  • Linkedin
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Other
07
We would like to know where you heard about this position. If you selected College Job Board, Job Fair, Job Board, or Other, please let us know the specific name of the college, job board, or place you heard about this position. If you selected a specifically named job board or webpage (listed above), please enter "n/a".

Required Question

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