Deputy Director of Communications

State of Maryland • Baltimore City, MD

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The MD Labor Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL) operates a statewide network of workforce programs and partnerships through its six program offices, which administer workforce development, registered apprenticeship, adult education, correctional education, strategic workforce initiatives, and the statewide network of American Job Centers, helping individuals gain the skills needed for successful careers while strengthening Maryland’s economy. The Communications team leads strategic communications for the division’s workforce development initiatives. The team develops and executes communications strategies, digital content, executive communications, and public outreach initiatives that elevate DWDAL’s programs and connect Marylanders with workforce resources. Working closely with executive leadership and program offices, the team helps ensure clear, consistent, and impactful communications across the division and with agency leadership, external partners, and audiences. DWDAL is seeking a highly motivated Deputy Director of Communications who develops and implements strategic communications plans and messaging frameworks, possesses exceptional writing skills and a talent for storytelling, produces high-quality communications, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Experience working within the public sector is a plus. Knowledge of workforce development, registered apprenticeship, adult education, correctional education, and/or grant-funded workforce programs is desirable.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• At least eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, journalism, public relations, marketing, digital communications, or a related field, including at least six (6) years of supervisory experience.
• At least five (5) years of experience developing and implementing strategic communications plans and messaging frameworks.
• At least five (5) years of professional writing and editing experience producing communications for executive, public, or stakeholder audiences, including speeches, talking points, press releases, briefing documents, and similar products.
• At least four (4) years of experience managing multiple communications projects simultaneously, including establishing timelines, coordinating resources, prioritizing competing demands, and ensuring deliverables are completed on schedule.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working within the public sector is a plus.
• Knowledge of workforce development, registered apprenticeship, adult education, correctional education, and/or grant-funded workforce programs is desirable.
• Five (5) or more years of experience serving as a principal or lead writer for executive speeches, remarks, briefing documents, talking points, press releases, newsletters, and other public-facing communications.
• Five (5) or more years of experience translating complex government programs, policies, legislation, or technical information into clear, plain-language communications that tell compelling stories and engage diverse audiences.
• Three (3) or more years of experience developing and reviewing digital and written communications to ensure compliance with Section 508, WCAG, and ADA accessibility requirements.
• Professional proficiency in both English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the division’s principal writer and editor for communications supporting DWDAL’s workforce programs, policies, and initiatives.
• Produce high-quality written products, including executive speeches, event remarks, briefing documents, talking points, key messages, press releases, newsletters, website and social media content, and other communications products.
• Translate complex workforce policies, legislation, technical information, and program information into clear, concise, and compelling communications that effectively convey the importance and impact of DWDAL programs.
• Review, edit, and provide editorial guidance on communications developed by staff to ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency, and alignment with agency messaging, branding, and editorial standards.
• Ensure all written and digital content meets plain language principles and complies with Section 508, WCAG, and ADA accessibility requirements.
• Develop and implement strategic communications plans in support of the priorities and direction established by the Director of Communications.
• Develop messaging frameworks and recommend communications approaches, audience targeting, sequencing, and implementation strategies for workforce programs and initiatives.
• Coordinate communications planning across DWDAL program offices to promote consistent messaging and effective delivery of program information.
• Anticipate communications needs related to program launches, policy changes, grant announcements, events, milestones, and leadership priorities.
• Manage multiple communications projects by establishing timelines, coordinating resources, monitoring progress, and ensuring deliverables are completed on schedule.
• Plan, gather, and report on metrics to gauge the efficacy of communications work, and use these findings to inform future communications plans.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, program managers, subject matter experts, and external partners to identify communications needs and recommend messaging and communications approaches.
• Coordinate closely with the Department’s Office of the Secretary and other internal partners to support communications initiatives and ensure alignment with departmental communications priorities and standards.
• Build strong working relationships across the division to support effective communications planning and execution.
• As delegated and in the Director’s absence, oversee day-to-day Communications team operations to ensure continuity of communications activities.
• Assign and review work, monitor project timelines, mentor Communications team members, and provide constructive editorial feedback.
• Assist with coordinating workloads, maintaining quality standards, and supporting Communications team operations.

Benefits

• Flexible hours and hybrid teleworking
• 12-13 paid holidays per year
• Paid leave, including annual, sick, personal, and compensatory
• State Pension (“defined benefit” plan).
• Tax-deferred supplemental retirement savings plans - 401(k) and 457
• Comprehensive subsidized health, dental, and prescription plans with little to no deductibles, free generic subscriptions, and free preventive health services.
• Flexible Spending Account plans for Health Care and Daycare
• Free mass transit benefit
• State Employees Credit Union

What This Job Offers

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