Director of Communications – Department of Human Services; DoHS

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt At-Will

Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 annually

The Department of Human Services (DoHS) seeks a visionary Director of Communications to join our Executive Team. In this role, public relations, complex policy, and executive strategy converge. You will lead all public information, crisis management, and media activities to ensure transparent stewardship of the public trust.

As the chief communications expert, you will oversee a team of specialists and public information officers while managing high-stakes agency messaging.

• Executive
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Partner directly with the Governor’s Office, Secretary of Human Services, Legislature, and key stakeholders to align public engagement with strategic goals.
• Crisis & Media Command: Serve as the primary architect for rapid-response planning and high-profile risk mitigation. Author executive statements and direct on-site press logistics for legislative sessions, hearings, and briefings.
• Campaigns & Digital Ecosystems: Oversee multi-channel strategies (web, social, traditional press) and execute large-scale public education campaigns.
• Compliance: Ensure all communications meet accessibility standards (ADA, plain language), multi-language translation protocols, and public disclosure laws.
• On-Site Operational Leadership: Provide hands-on direction during mandatory, high-priority events, including agency press conferences, State Legislative sessions, and emergency operations.

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or a related field.
• Public Sector PR & Media: Extensive experience in strategic communications, public relations, and public media management within complex organizational or public sector environments.
• Crisis Management: Proven track record in rapid-response planning and high-profile risk mitigation.
• Legislative & Policy Fluency: Deep familiarity with federal and state legislative processes; skilled at translating complex policy into accessible public narratives.
• Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Proven success supervising communications staff and managing relationships with government officials, news media, and community partners under tight deadlines.
• Tools & Compliance: Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and digital content management tools. Strong understanding of ADA standards and public disclosure requirements.
• Emergency Operations: Experience handling public information oversight during active emergency operations and utilizing media data to pivot strategies.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your long-term security:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Retirement Planning: Secure state retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave (vacation/sick time) and paid state holidays.

At DoHS, your work directly impacts citizens statewide. We offer a unique opportunity to lead at the highest level of state government, driving transparency, innovation, and trust when it matters most.