Job Description
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).
DUTIES:
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.
QUALIFICATIONS:
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.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
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
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
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