Communications Specialist

This posting is for the State of Hawaii, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Office of the Director.

The position is located on Oahu (Downtown Honolulu).

Salary commensurate with education and experience.

The position is located in the Office of the Director, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The function of the organizational unit is to coordinate the various activities of the department within the scope of laws and established policies and rules. The Office of the Director is responsible for the over-all management and administration of the department and its programs and activities.

The primary purpose of the position is to independently perform duties in support of the department's public information program and the department's consumer protection education program. The position prepares informational material for dissemination through various media and outreach events. The position also initiates, plans and executes activities relating to statewide consumer protection education programs for the public and implements programs to foster effective communication within the department.

Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferably in journalism, communications, or related field of study

Possess a minimum of two and one-half (2-1/2) years of progressively responsible professional work experience in one or more of the following fields of work: communications, public relations, digital media production, education, and marketing.

Journalism, communications, marketing, digital media, and/or public relations principles and best practices; principles, concepts and techniques used in developing communications strategy and writing informational materials; processes involved in disseminating information through the various media and the most effective means of utilizing each medium; information gathering and interviewing techniques; and processes involved in the production, and presentation and dissemination of a variety of informational material.

Methods of public information and communications; public relations, economic, cultural or other factors which motivate consumer actions; principles and techniques in preparing informational and educational materials; effective means of educating various segments of the population.

Understand and apply the principles, theories and concepts of public information and consumer education campaigns. Communicate effectively verbally and in writing; develop, write, design, edit and produce effective informational material in a timely manner and under deadline pressure; identify and/or appropriately respond to media and public inquiries; develop and execute a statewide consumer protection education program; establish and maintain a positive and effective working relationship with staff, outside organizations, other departments and jurisdictions, media representatives, vendors and the general public;

deals tactfully with the public; provide guidance and training on communication strategies; and understands department mission and policies.

Exercise sound judgment and discretion in dealing with confidential matters. Ability to drive a vehicle for business activities; work flexible hours; and travel off-island as required.

This position is exempt from the civil service and considered temporary in nature. Therefore, if you are appointed to the position, your employment will be considered to be "at will," which means that you may be discharged from your employment from the department head or designee at any time.