Communications Manager (Communications Consultant 5

Communications Manager (Communications Consultant
5)

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Communications Manager (Communications Consultant
5) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program.

This is a temporary position that will end 12 months from date of hire.

Note:

this may be extended based on funding availability.

Location:

• Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule:

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• One to two days per week of on-site attendance is required.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• Apply by August 12, 2026.

Duties:

This Communications Manager position offers a unique opportunity to lead high-impact, agency-wide communications efforts within Ecology's Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program and the Office of Chehalis Basin (OCB). In this role, you will guide strategic internal and external communications that help Washington communities understand, engage with, and influence some of the most complex environmental issues facing the state. You will partner closely with program leadership, technical experts, and executive-level decision-makers to shape communication strategies that explain the work Ecology does, why it matters, and the science behind it.

You will serve as the SEA Program's lead spokesperson, providing clear, accurate, timely information across multiple channels—including news media, digital and social media, web platforms, public events, and crisis-response communications. You will independently develop high-quality written products, translate technical and politically sensitive information for diverse audiences, and ensure our communications meet plain-language, accessibility, and equity expectations. As a member of the SEA Program Management Team, you will help set program priorities and strengthen public understanding of Ecology's environmental stewardship through innovative, strategic, and audience-centered communication.

What you will do:

• Lead strategic internal and external communications for the SEA Program and Office of Chehalis Basin, developing and implementing comprehensive public information and public involvement strategies that support agency priorities.
• Serve as the program's primary spokesperson, managing media relations, preparing leadership and subject matter experts for interviews, and representing Ecology at public meetings, briefings, and events.
• Write, edit, and oversee high-quality communication products—including news releases, key messages, social and digital content, web materials, speeches, and strategic documents—translating complex environmental and policy information into clear, accessible messages.
• Direct the program's web content strategy, ensuring digital information is accurate, user-centered, and aligned with agency standards for accessibility and plain language.
• Provide communications leadership across internal and external partnerships, collaborating closely with SEA and OCB leadership, Communications Program staff, outreach professionals, and interagency partners to align messaging and support statewide initiatives.
• Supervise and mentor a Communications Consultant 3, setting priorities, reviewing work products, and supporting professional development to meet program communication needs.
• Advise program managers and agency leadership on communication strategy, policy considerations, public involvement approaches, and response strategies for sensitive or time-critical issues.
• Ensure timely, clear communication during high-visibility or urgent situations, providing support outside regular business hours when needed to maintain transparency and public trust.

Qualifications:

For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website.

Required Qualifications:

Eight (8) years of experience and/or education as described below:

Experience:

professional-level experience in journalism, public relations/information, news media, digital/social media, marketing, digital accessibility,…