Communications Specialist Mental Health and Substance Use Services

About Us

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest, most complex agencies in the state, and has approximately 17,000 employees. It is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all North Carolinians, providing human service needs for special populations including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, and mentally ill, and helping poor North Carolinians achieve economic independence.

The Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services is seeking a Communications Specialist who believes in the power of storytelling to move people toward services that can transform lives. As part of the Division’s External Affairs team, you’ll help shape the public voice of one of North Carolina’s most impactful health divisions.

Embedded within one or more of the Division’s program areas, you’ll surface compelling stories, elevate community voices, and make sure people know how and where to get help.

• Build and refine communication processes that keep our messaging sharp, consistent, and effective.
• Develop content for a twice-weekly newsletter that highlights funding opportunities, new initiatives, events, awareness recognitions, and real stories from across the state.
• Write high-visibility messages for the Division Director and craft strong, engaging social media content.
• Produce timely awareness messaging that keeps stakeholders informed.
• Plan and support communications for campaigns, events, and webinars across your program area.
• Coordinate closely with subject matter experts to translate complex work into accessible, meaningful updates.
• Partner with the NCDHHS Office of Communications on media events, press releases, and cross-division messaging.

Every message you craft helps someone understand a system, find a resource, or feel seen. Your work will reduce stigma, increase access to services, and elevate the voices of people and families across North Carolina.

• Writes clearly, quickly, and with purpose
• Thrives in a fast‑moving, collaborative environment
• Knows how to translate complex ideas into compelling, people-centered stories
• Values diversity, inclusion, and dignity in every communication
• Is excited to build processes while also being a go-to creator of timely content

Salary Range: $57,983 - $101,470

Recruitment Range: $57,983 - $74,000

Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement. The Knowledge

Skills and Abilities

/ Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred.

• Knowledge of DMH/DD/SUS and its programs
• Experience writing for executive leaders
• Experience using Social Media

This position is funded in part through federal funds. This position will close at 11:59 p.m. the night before the end date.

The North Carolina Department of Mental Health provides quality support to achieve self-determination for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and quality services to promote treatment and recovery for individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders.

The State of North Carolina offers excellent comprehensive benefits.

• Employees can participate in health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program (numerous high-quality, low-cost benefits on a pre-tax basis).
• Employees also receive paid vacation, sick, and community service leave.
• In addition, paid parental leave is available to…