State of Oregon · 3 weeks ago
Public Information Officer (Public Affairs Specialist 3)
Salem, OR
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level
$7,004/mo - $10,311/mo
5+ years expThe Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care is seeking a Public Information Officer (Public Affairs Specialist 3) to lead media strategies and connect communities with services for children and families. The role involves overseeing communications, managing media relations, and providing strategic guidance to internal teams.
AssociationGovernmentNon Profit
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Lead media relations and communications strategies as the chief spokesperson and primary point of contact for news media
Oversee message development and ensure consistent, accurate, and inclusive communications across earned media, emergency and crisis situations, and public outreach efforts
Write and coordinate press materials, manage media inquiries and events, maintain strong relationships with reporters and partners, and support executive leadership, the Governor’s Office, and the Legislature on communications matters
Provide strategic guidance to internal teams, ensure materials are accessible and in plain language, develop crisis communication plans, and train staff and subject matter experts to effectively engage with the media, while upholding records management standards and fostering an equitable and respectful work culture
Qualification
Required
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or related field AND five years of professional level experience in public relations or public affairs; OR
Eight years of experience in public relations or public affairs. Five of the eight years must have been at the professional level
Demonstrated experience serving as a primary media contact or spokesperson, including responding to media inquiries and representing an organization publicly
Ability to develop, align, and manage clear, consistent messaging across media, crisis communications, and public-facing materials
Experience planning for and responding to high-profile, time-sensitive, or emergency situations with sound judgment and accuracy
Strong ability to write and edit press releases, talking points, briefs, and other communications tailored to diverse audiences
Proven skill in building and maintaining effective working relationships with reporters, partners, leadership, and interagency or external parties
Commitment to inclusivity. Experience ensuring communications are inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible, including plain language and multilingual approaches
Ability to work effectively with executive leadership, cross-functional teams, and subject matter experts to provide strategic communications guidance and training
Experience managing records, tracking communications, and ensuring compliance with public records requirements, policies, and standards
A valid driver license and acceptable driving record is required, unless the successful applicant can provide a satisfactory alternate mode of transportation
Preferred
Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is preferred but not required. Please note, if the successful applicant is bilingual in Spanish, they will receive an additional 5% differential for performing bilingual translations
Benefits
Comprehensive Benefits: Low-cost medical, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family, plus optional benefits like life and disability insurance, deferred compensation, and flexible spending accounts.
Work-Life Balance: 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days, 1 special day, monthly sick leave, and vacation accruals that increase every 5 years.
Student Loan Forgiveness: Potential federal loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments.
Inclusive Culture: A diverse, welcoming workplace committed to equity and continuous improvement.
Company
State of Oregon
State of Oregon is a government organization that focuses on employment, businesses, education, recreation, and public safety.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
William Wise
Chief Executive Officer
Kate Nass
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
2025-05-04
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