Job Specification Details

Senior professional level outreach program development, implementation, and management. Responsible for developing and coordinating a variety of public outreach, education, and communications initiatives and materials. This position has primary responsibility for planning, developing, and managing, marketing plans and outreach efforts for program activities with particular attention to diversity, equity and inclusion. The position ensures Department objectives are being adequately addressed with effective content and that technology is optimally utilized. The incumbent will report to the Director of Consumer Affairs and Public Information.

Works directly with program staff, managers, division directors, and the Commissioner to facilitate communication with Department’s various constituencies. This position is responsible for identifying, designing, and executing outreach and communications strategies related to the Department’s implementation of programs. Design, recommend, implement, and manage communication plans to support the Department’s strategic objectives. A significant amount of writing is required in various formats from social media to reports and others. Quick comprehension of technical data and programs and an ability to distill that information into easily understood communication to the public is critical. Coordinate public events, such as press events and other community marketing activities throughout the year. Monitor the Department website to ensure appropriate content, consistency, and timely updates of communication content and messaging. Writes, formats, and updates text, lists, graphics, and other information delivered to the public and media, in accordance with established State brand standards. Oversee consultant contracts as needed. Assist program staff on specific projects as needed. Performs related duties as required.

Duties are performed primarily in a standard office setting, with required travel to field locations and out of state travel for which private means of transportation must be available. Evening and weekend duty may be necessary. Meetings with interest groups and the public will occur, including meetings with irate members of the public which will require good human relations skills and tact.

Considerable knowledge and experience of the principles and practices of stakeholder engagement, marketing, public relations, and communication techniques. 

Ability to merge existing and evolving all types of communications activities including social media technology into the agency's daily workflow.

Ability to develop outreach programs suitable for a variety of audiences.

Ability to synthesize input and feedback from a range of stakeholders for incorporation into programs. Must be able to communicate in a clear and concise manner and possess superior written and public speaking communication skills.

Ability to write with little editing needed.

Ability to absorb and communicate information of a technical nature in a short amount of time is necessary.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with constituents, colleagues, and the media is required.

Knowledge of energy, telecommunications, and broadband issues in Vermont is helpful.

Ability to stay abreast of emerging trends in social media, website development, and other outreach practices

Knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite of programs.

Knowledge of website analytics; and ability to develop surveys and use them to identify Agency communication outreach needs.

Ability to develop and implement a public relations/communication strategic plan.

Ability to prioritize and coordinate multiple tasks, ability to be flexible and ability to meet deadlines.

Two (2) years or more of professional experience in a wide range of communication and outreach duties such as stakeholder engagement, marketing, emergency/risk/crisis communication, public relations, graphic design, audio/visual production, designing and managing the organizations social media and other communication and networking activities.

Bachelor’s degree or higher in public relations, communications, marketing, graphic design, or related field.

Professional or volunteer experience in a field related to equity, social justice, and/or diversity/inclusion.