Communications Officer

Initial Posting Date: 08/03/2026

Final date to receive applications: 08/10/2026

Agency:
Oregon Health Authority

Salary Range: $6,581.00 - $10,105.00

Position Type:
Employee

Position Title:

Communications Officer

This is a hybrid position offering significant work-from-home flexibility If this opportunity aligns with your strengths, background, and commitment to fostering inclusivity, we encourage you to apply! At Oregon Health Authority (OHA), we value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to help us build a stronger, more equitable future for all.

A bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, public relations, marketing, journalism, behavioral science, social science, or related field AND five years of professional level experience in public relations or public affairs; OR Eight years of experience directly related to the position under recruitment. Five of the eight years must have been at the professional level.

• Demonstrated experience developing, implementing and managing strategic communications and crisis communications plans for complex or high-profile issues.
• Experience building and maintaining strong working relationships with members of the media, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews and responding to media inquiries under tight deadlines.
• Experience serving as an agency or organizational spokesperson in interviews, presentations, press briefings or livestream settings involving sensitive or complex topics.
• Strong writing, editing and storytelling skills with the ability to create clear, concise and culturally responsive communications for diverse audiences across multiple platforms.
• Experience identifying and elevating compelling stories, including community-based, lived-experience and public interest stories that increase public engagement and media coverage.
• Demonstrated ability to strategically manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, prioritize competing deadlines and adapt quickly in fast-paced or emergency response environments.
• Experience overseeing or collaborating on multimedia content creation, including web content, social media, video production, graphic design and/or other digital communications materials.
• Skill in advising leadership and cross-functional teams on communications strategy, reputational risk, public engagement and effective messaging related to public policy or public health initiatives.

We offer a workplace that balances productivity with enjoyment; promotes an atmosphere of mutual respect, dedication, and enthusiasm. You will collaborate with a team of bright individuals to work with and learn from.

Ifyou'redriven by the passion to do something meaningful that changes lives, the Oregon Health Authorityis the place for you.

We also offer a competitive benefits package including:
Excellent, low-cost medical, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family. Optional benefits like life insurance, disability coverage, deferred compensation, and FSA options for health and childcare. Generous paid time off: 11 holidays, 3 personal days, monthly sick leave, and vacation accrual starting at 8 hours/month. Potential eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Retirement security through

Public Employees Retirement System(PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan(OPSRP). Training and development opportunities to grow your career with the State of Oregon.

This announcement is for one, full-time, permanent, management service, Communications Officer, Oregon Public Health Division (Classification: Public Affairs Specialist
3) position based in Portland, Oregon. This position is hybrid but may work out of the Salem or Portland OHA offices as needed to meet business needs. The schedule and hybrid work approval will be discussed and agreed upon between the hiring manager and selected candidate. Employment is contingent upon a criminal records check that meets OHA criteria at the time of hire and throughout employment.

The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying range.…