Assistant Communications Manager (CC5)



Assistant Communications Manager (CC5)

Salary

$67,548.00 - $90,808.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

21DOT-NWR-13101e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

10/25/2021

Closing Date

11/8/2021 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure that people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 

 

The Opportunity

WSDOT is eager to hire a communications and public relations professional looking to advance their career into a leadership role to serve as our next Assistant Communications Manager for Major Construction to identify, develop, and implement strategic communications for major I-5 construction projects throughout the Snohomish and King County areas. As the Assistant Communications Manager, this position will prepare and participate with WSDOT managers and executives to make informed policy decisions, respond to on-site emergencies, answer media inquiries and interview requests, and proactively communicate complex issues. This supervisory role will also inspire, motivate, develop, and support staff in alignment with WSDOT’s mission and strategic plan. The Assistant Communications Manager will play a vital role in WSDOT's successful delivery of major I-5 construction projects, maintaining public confidence and helping the public travel safely.
 
 What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Communications Manager will:

  • Serve as primary media contact for the major construction activities on the I-5 corridor in King and Snohomish counties and may coordinate directly with the Governor’s Press Secretary as needed. 
  • Work independently or as a part of a team to supervise, train, and manage a communication consultant who is required to provide just in time information to the public that aligns with WSDOT’s communication plan. 
  • Lead staff and others during planned construction disruptions and crisis situations, and also advise NWR Administrator, NWR Communications Manager, and Director of Communications on planned response. 
  • Identify, develop, and implement strategic communications for major construction projects throughout the region. 
  • Work independently or as a part of a team to advise NWR leadership regarding media and public information activities related to legislative activities, initiatives, and directives during crisis situations affecting major projects in the I-5 corridor. 
  • Leverage WSDOT social media platforms for campaigns to support major construction projects in the I-5 corridor, and effectively engage the media and respond to constituents using various social media platforms. 
  • Serve as the agency’s information manager responsible for responding to significant emergency or crisis situations involving construction, advising NWR leadership and management on public information strategies, coordinating information to disseminate with appropriate local, state and federal officials in times of emergency crisis. 
  • Represent WSDOT in meetings with partner agencies and influential stakeholders and serve as agency spokesperson on a 24x7 basis. 

 

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in English, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, Social Science or related fields and four (4) years of writing, editing, and/or translating experience. 
    1. Additional years of experience in information, journalism, or public relations may be substituted for the education requirement on a year for year basis.
  • Four (4) years of experience in information, journalism, or public relations. 
  • Current FEMA ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, 800 certifications or the ability to obtain with 18 months of employment. 
  • Ability to lift and transport materials that up to 40lbs. 

 

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Ability to organize and prioritize work despite tight deadlines, multiple customers and competing priorities.
  • Ability to work independently and work as part of a team.
  • Ability to foster and maintain excellent working relationships even in time of stress and conflict.
  • Ability to advise top management officials regarding program impact upon public; organize, prepare, and present comprehensive public information and education programs using mass media; write and speak effectively; coordinate and supervise subordinate personnel; establish and maintain cooperative relations with members of the media and the public; select effective methods and techniques of disseminating a variety of information.
  • Knowledge of methods of determining needs for public information and education; methods and techniques of evaluating effectiveness of public relations programs; mass news media capabilities, procedures, and techniques; state government and departmental organization, programs and functions.
  • Knowledge and experience working in crisis communications, transportation operations and construction.
  • Knowledge and background in public speaking, writing and editing; public composition and layout. English grammar, punctuation, spelling and diction; graphic arts and printing methods and materials.
  • Knowledge of public relations, public involvement, marketing, customer service, transportation, media relations, community relations (including working with disadvantage, minority and non-English speaking communities) and construction.
  • Background in and thorough understanding of construction communications, media relations, public outreach, and politics.

 

Important Notes 

  • By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes, however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.
  • The information provided on your application profile, any supplemental material attached to your application, and the responses to the supplemental questions will be used to determine qualifications for interview selection. Therefore, it is to your advantage that your application packet be completed in as much detail as possible. 
  • The listed salary includes the Legislative approved King County Premium. 
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted on XXXX. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

 

Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available to staff, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 11 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options, and free dental coverage! Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
  • Tuition Assistance – Our employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.  

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

 

How to Apply 

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further details your qualifications, and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact information to be included in the “References” section of the online application for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, knowledge base, and job-related competencies.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in, or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

 

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

 

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

 

Contact us: 

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Eric Saniatan, at SaniatE@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 21DOT-NWR-13101e in the subject line. 

 

Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

 



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
Do you have a current Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No
02
Do you have a Bachelors degree in English, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, Social Science or related fields?
  • Yes
  • No
03
Please list the highest level of education you have completed, as well as any other academic and/or professional development course you have completed.
04
How many years of experience do you have in writing, editing, and/or translating?
  • Less than 4 years of experience
  • 4 – 5 years of experience
  • 5 – 6 years of experience
  • More than 6 years of experience
  • No relevant experience
05
Please describe your experience in information, journalism, or public relations. If you do not have said experience, please type N/A.
06
Do you current possess any of the following FEMA ICS certifications (select all that apply)?
  • ICS 100
  • ICS 200
  • ICS 300
  • ICS 400
  • ICS 700
  • ICS 800
  • None of the above
07
This position requires the ability to lift and transport materials up to 40lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation. Are you willing and able to perform this essential job function?
  • Yes
  • No
08
By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all WSDOT employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (Exemptions may be granted for religious or medical purposes). Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No
09
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
10
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact