Communications Strategist

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

7d•$6,581 - $10,105•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Communications Section is seeking a senior-level strategic communications expert for its road usage charge (RUC) program and the legislative effort (HB 3991) to make this program required for electric and hybrid vehicles starting in July 2027. In this role, you will plan and develop public affairs and public information/education campaigns to inform the public on who needs to pay the road usage charge and how to pay it. You will also help set program policy, provide strategic communication counsel to management, create and manage strategic communications for the Governor’s Office, legislature, federal, state and local officials around the implementation of the road usage charge, and represent ODOT at meetings, to public groups, and to the media. This is an opportunity to support an effort with statewide and national significance and impact. ODOT provides a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive. We encourage people from all backgrounds and abilities to apply for our positions.

Requirements

Eight years of experience directly related to the position under recruitment. Five of the eight years must have been at the professional level.
OR 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.
Driving is an essential function of this position. You must have a valid U.S. driver license and an acceptable driving record. We will conduct pre-employment driving records checks on our final candidate(s). Your license does not have to be issued in Oregon to be considered.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing marketing and paid media campaigns.
Knowledge of strategic communications and effective communications planning.
Effective verbal and written communications (including storytelling).
Proven experience organizing community engagement events.
Experience writing news releases, giving on-air interviews and pitching stories to media.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement communication strategies and long-range plans that advance goals and priorities of the agency and Oregon’s road usage charge program.
Plan and lead statewide marketing and outreach efforts to launch and increase awareness of agency programs.
Establish new communication policies, procedures and standards.
Evaluate and prepare reports and recommendations to agency and program staff.
Develop, procure and manage consultant contracts for public marketing and education campaigns.
Build and maintain partnerships with local governments, community organizations, private sector partners, other state agencies and news media.
Respond to media inquiries and provide guidance to leadership.
Develop and supervise the creation of digital and physical communication materials.