Job Description
THE POSITION
This is a limited-duration opportunity, funded through June 30, 2026. This position is eligible for benefits and has a primarily in-person schedule with some remote work as determined by business needs.
Washington County's Administrative Office (CAO) is now seeking a Public Affairs and Communications Coordinator to assist with the county’s strategic initiatives over the next two years. This position will be part of the overall communications function of the CAO and will work closely with and serve as a communications liaison between the departments and offices associated with the County’s public safety and justice system services, as well as external partners. The successful candidate will be skilled at using public opinion research and consultants to develop communications plans and disseminate content to key audiences through earned and social media channels.
Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable of county-related services and projects, including but not limited to, local government strategic planning and budgeting, the criminal justice system in Oregon and Washington County, mental health care, addiction treatment, and programs to address houselessness. The selected candidate will have broad communications skills and a commitment to making public services more accessible to underserved and marginalized community members, an understanding of community engagement processes and activities, and extensive experience as a public information officer or a similar position in a government agency.
Washington County is currently experiencing numerous systemic and interconnected challenges straining existing resources. The organization is experiencing critical systemic change to build a comprehensive capital improvement plan, implement a leading-edge enterprise resource planning tool, modernize the County’s financial policies and systems and several other major projects. In addition, the Board of County Commissioners will consider replacing or renewing two fundamental local option property tax measures that currently fund a significant portion of the countywide public library system and public safety and justice services provided by Washington County. These resource and workforce challenges and potential solutions must be thoughtfully and strategically communicated to various stakeholders including community leaders, legislators, service delivery partners and the general public.
Washington County is eager and committed to hiring individuals who reflect the many and diverse communities within Washington County. We are extremely interested in hiring individuals with a variety of language abilities that reflect the many cultures within the county, which we know will only strengthen and bring improvements to our work. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. Together, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. With the help of every employee, our customers, our partners and our community – we can make meaningful progress in our mission of equity! For more information about the County Administrative Office and Washington County, visit this link: Washington County, Oregon
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MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
- A Bachelor's Degree in Public or Business Administration, Political Science, Communications, Journalism, or related degree; AND
- Two (2) years’ experience related to public or governmental affairs.
- Graduate level training in a related field.
- Must possess a driver's license valid in the State of Oregon and have an acceptable driving record.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Selection Process
- MQ Review: HR will screen applications for minimum qualifications after the posting closes.
- SME Review: Applications for candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be forwarded to a panel of subject matter experts (SME) who will review and score your application This process may take up to 2 weeks.
- Panel Interview(s): Our goal is to schedule panel interviews with candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and pass the SME review as soon as possible.
We are committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills and abilities. Washington County values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration and work-life balance. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package and an opportunity to serve and support our diverse community. We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity and an inclusive workforce. Women, minorities, veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- Veterans' Preference: If you are a veteran and would like to request veterans' preference points for this recruitment,
- Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: A reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance, please contact Human Resources at 503-846-8606 or careers@washingtoncountyor.gov at least 48 hours before the step(s) of the selection process for which you feel you need an accommodation.
Additional Resources
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Elle Krueger, Talent Acquisition Business Partner
Management, Administrative and Professional Personnel System (MAPPS) - FLSA exempt employees are paid on a salaried basis. The premise of salaried/exempt employment is that established compensation recognizes the time and effort needed to accomplish all assigned job duties. Job responsibilities may require work outside of the employee's standard work week or a work week in excess of 40 hours.