Community Relations Project Manager

Arizona Department of Administration•Phoenix, AZ

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is seeking a talented Community Relations Project Manager who is passionate about conservation and public service and wants their work to make a lasting impact on Arizona’s wildlife and wild places. This position plays a critical role in advancing the Department’s mission to conserve and protect more than 800 wildlife species by connecting people to science-based wildlife management and responsible outdoor recreation. As a Community Relations Project Manager, you will help lead with development of stories to showcase Arizona’s landscapes, species, and the professionals working every day to safeguard them. Through strategic communication, media relations, and direct public engagement, you will build understanding, trust, and support for conservation efforts across the state. You will collaborate with biologists, wildlife managers, and leadership to translate complex conservation issues into clear, engaging messages for diverse audiences. Your work will help ensure Arizonans and visitors understand how wildlife is managed, why stewardship matters, and how outdoor recreation can be enjoyed safely and sustainably—now and for future generations. This role is ideal for a skilled communicator who values teamwork, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is motivated by meaningful work that serves both people and wildlife. At AZGFD, your communications will do more than inform—they will inspire conservation, strengthen community relationships, and support the long-term protection of Arizona’s natural heritage. This position may be available for remote work within Arizona (2 days per week in the office) based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.

Requirements

Knowledge of all aspects of public affairs and community relations
Knowledge of AP style design and layout
Knowledge of marketing and promotion techniques
Knowledge of journalism
Knowledge of state procurement procedures
Knowledge of contract negotiation
Knowledge of personnel management, supervision, mentorship, delegation
Knowledge of Arizona geography
Strong interest in Arizona wildlife species, their habitats, ecology, and outdoor recreation
Skill in communication, writing, editing, organization, listening, problem solving, and production
Skill in personnel, budget, project management, Google suit and Microsoft Office programs and time management
Ability to supervise and coach subordinates
Ability to evaluate work processes and products
Ability to administer the program budget
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
Ability to meet deadlines
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and non-verbally
Ability to adapt to changing priorities
Ability to think strategically
Ability to take initiative
Ability to prioritize projects to completion
Ability to edit, rewrite, proofread copy
Ability to perform editorial research
Ability to evaluate story quality
Ability to originate and develop new article/issue ideas
Ability to write non-fiction material
Ability to guide agency staff on communications and constituent relations strategies
Ability to collaborate and participate with/on projects and teams
Ability to provide exemplary customer service
Possession of and ability to retain a current, valid state-issued driver’s license appropriate to the assignment
Must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify)

Nice To Haves

Bilingual fluency in Spanish

Responsibilities

Plans, supervises and directs public affairs and community relations projects
Plan, implement, and manage public Information communications programs that support the Department's mission
Write and prepare targeted public Information communications, working with internal and external subject matter experts to create accurate, timely and engaging talking points, including news/media releases, electronic newsletters, articles, public service announcements, brochures, web content, etc
Ensure consistent implementation of the Department's brand across various platforms
Build and maintain relationships through communication, outreach and public affairs efforts. Assist with event/conference execution and participate in community engagements
Handle various aspects of media relations which includes; writing and distributing news releases and media advisories, making proactive pitches to news media, handling and coordinating agency responses to media queries, and assisting with critical incident communication.
Select, train, supervise, mentor and provide oversight of subordinate staff
Oversee and manage program budget(s)
Create opportunities to engage constituents, convey narratives, and facilitate dialogue with diverse stakeholders.
Assist internal customers with public information planning and provide advice and counsel on media relations.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

13 days’ of vacation
12 sick days
10 paid holidays
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Participation in the nationally recognized Arizona State Retirement System
Superior health care options
Vision care, dental care, pharmacy benefits, and flexible spending account (options available)
Life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance options are available
Many more benefit programs are available
Paid Parental Leave program