ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

100 North 15th Avenue

Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Annual Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000

Grade: 24

This position will remain open until filled  

Responsible for overseeing the implementation of both internal and external communication strategies; managing external communication channels like social media platforms, the website, and media relations; writing copy; and growing brand trust by publishing regular content and informational materials.

Responsible for organizational and creative tasks to standardize and improve the communication efforts of the agency.

This position reports to the Deputy Director of Border Coordination.

• Consults with BCO team to develop effective communication procedures and policies for various situations or crises. Drafts and publishes media releases to announce and promote agency news and critical public information. Develops talking points for agency and state leadership. Responds to media inquiries. Writes letters, memos, and other business correspondence. Communicates with media outlets and journalists and create press kits. Develops materials to educate staff on communication practices

• Develops branding materials and templates for standard work use (e.g., style guides, communications materials, media releases, and brand templates). Coaches and assists team members on improving communication skills. Performs communications research and monitors the progress of various communications strategies

• Represents AZDOHS at conferences and events, on task forces and workgroups, and with communities as needed

• Participates in general AZDOHS staff activities and performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge:

• To perform satisfactorily, an individual in this position should have knowledge of Arizona state, and local and tribal government. Proficiency in various marketing tools and technologies, including social media platforms, membership platforms and analytical tools

Skills:

• To perform the work satisfactorily, an individual should possess advanced interpersonal skills for building relationships with stakeholders and the media; excellent oral and written communication skills, public speaking skills and the confidence to address large audiences; networking and relationship-building skills; management and administrative skills, typing, note taking, research skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office operating systems and software (e.g., Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) as well as G-Suite

Ability:

• The desirable candidate for this position will have the ability to translate complex issues into easily understood content; work in a non-partisan, issue-focused way with policymakers aligned with both political parties; manage multiple projects dealing with a wide range of issues; adapt to frequent change; prioritize tasks; recognize and be politically sensitive; work in a team environment; handle sensitive documents; and will possess excellent listening skills; be self motivating/self-driven; and be able to travel frequently; operate a motor vehicle; and have a clean driving record

Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree, demonstrable experience with public messaging, availability for critical incidents that may occur outside of regular business hours

• Possession of and ability to retain a current, valid state-issued driver's license

Preferred:

• Public Information Officer experience or training

• Experience working with a State agency

• Master’s degree (or in process)

• Existing media portfolio

• Bilingual

• Ability to maintain a clean driving record; Ability to pass a background check performed by Arizona Department of Public Safety

• Ability to possess and maintain a valid Arizona Driver's License and operate a motor vehicle

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.

The State of Arizona offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:

• Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance

• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance

• Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year

• Health and dental insurance

• Retirement plan

• Sick leave

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

• Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)

• Please note, enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment

• If you have any questions please feel free to contact Ariel Gonzalez at agonzalez@az.gov for assistance