Director of Communications

The Communications Director is located in the Office of the Director within the Department of Public Works (DPW) and reports directly to the agency Director. This position is responsible for providing strategic communications leadership in supporting the Department of Public Works in advancing the mission of the agency and the District of Columbia.

This position plans, designs and executes comprehensive, citywide campaigns to convey information concerning the Department of Public Works programs and services to persons served or affected by such programs and/ or services. In addition, the Communications Director is responsible for managing and directing the efforts of the Office of Communications and assigned staff.

Duties and Responsibilities

Plans and administers multi-faceted, comprehensive, internal, and external communications programs. Serves as the primary communications person for the Department of Public Works. Evaluates information problems encountered in communicating the organization's programs. Advises on and recommends specific information activities designed to meet these programs. Analyzes information needs in terms of the public needs to be met and provides advice on program information problems to program staff.

Develops a long-range strategic communications plan to improve and sustain agency missions. Develops and executes short and long-term marketing, communications, and public relations strategies on behalf of the Department of Public Works. Works with the Director and their cabinet; agency departments; and other education stakeholders to strategically position and advance issues of importance to Public Works and advised on policy issues. Assists the Director and other key DPW staff in the development and delivery of agency messages, with emphasis on all areas of communications including writing, presentation developments, and marketing.

Qualifications and Education

Specialized Experience is experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. An example of Specialized Experience are skills in developing written materials, applications of analytical and evaluative theories, concepts, procedures, methods, standards, and practices in marketing, public relations, and communication.

Bachelor’s degree in public relations and/or related field or equivalent combination of education and/or experience is preferred.

Work Conditions/Environment

The work is performed in a typical office setting which is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated.

Other Significant Factors

Tour of Duty: Monday – Friday, 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.

Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: MS-1001-15

Collective Bargaining Unit (Non-Union): This position is not in the Collective Bargaining Unit

Duration of Appointment: MSS At-Will. Positions in the Management Supervisory Service (MSS) serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.

Position Designation: This position has been designated as security sensitive therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability and as such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, and background investigations, as applicable.

Essential Designation: This position has been designated as an essential employee position under the provisions of the District Personnel Manual, Chapter 12. As such, your services may be required in emergency situations to perform crucial duties, i.e., snow removal, debris removal, transportation, shelter operation, food distribution, and communications. These duties may be performed when the government is closed or when most employees are dismissed early. Critical District government operations cannot be suspended or interrupted during emergency situations.

Residency Requirement Statement: If the position you are applying for is in the Career, Management Supervisory, or Educational Service at an annual salary of one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) or more, you must establish residency in the District of Columbia within one hundred eighty (180) days of the effective date of the appointment and continue to maintain residency within the District of Columbia throughout the duration of the appointment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.