Communication Specialist

STI • Nashville, TN

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Tennessee Department of Health is seeking a contract Communication Specialist for its Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs program. The role leads content creation and community engagement initiatives and develops communication plans aligned with program goals. The specialist works with subject matter experts, community partners, and a supportive multidisciplinary team to create culturally competent communications and highlight statewide initiatives involving children and youth with special healthcare needs.

The position is for Tennessee residents and follows Monday–Friday standard business hours, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CST, for 37.5 hours per week. It is hybrid, with a minimum in-office requirement of one day per week; additional office days may be required at the supervisor’s discretion, and the policy may change. The first day is in person for laptop deployment and orientation. The contract is listed as 06+ months with the possibility of long-term extension and is renewable annually on June 30 in accordance with the state fiscal calendar.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent demonstrated in a non-collegiate portfolio.
• Proficiency in Canva and Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.
• Experience reporting platform metrics.
• Knowledge of, or willingness to learn, WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 digital accessibility standards.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills; writing samples or bylined links should be included.
• Knowledge of cultural competency and sensitivity in health communications.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while working remotely.
• Graphic design samples are required.
• Must be a Tennessee resident.

Nice To Haves

• Two to five years of experience in public health, nonprofit, or government communications is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement a communication plan aligned with program goals and objectives.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts and community partners to design compelling, culturally competent digital and printed materials.
• Update and maintain program websites.
• Create and report on indicators that measure communications performance.
• Develop and implement monthly newsletters, social media campaigns, public service announcements, and related communications.
• Develop community engagement initiatives, including stories, interviews, videography, and photography.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external partners.
• Contribute to campaign development and community education projects highlighting statewide initiatives for children and youth with special healthcare needs.
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and demonstrate flexibility when priorities shift.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level