Dir. of Communications and Digital Media

State of North Carolina

3d • $67,996 - $116,444 • Hybrid

About The Position

The NC State Highway Patrol is seeking an enthusiastic team member to join the Public Information Office (PIO) as Director of Communications & Digital Media. The Director of Communications & Digital Media assists with strategic planning for public relations, branding, and publicizing all agency programs, advising agency personnel on best methods for promoting activities/program awareness and serving as one of the spokespeople for the agency or Colonel to the media. This position is deemed eligible for hybrid telework under SHP’s Telework Policy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, public affairs, media, journalism, English, OR a related field from an appropriately accredited institution and six years of experience in communications, public relations, or publicity work; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of planning, developing, and managing agency-wide public information or public relations programs, including dissemination of information about operations and initiatives to diverse audiences.
• Ability to write, edit, and translate complex or technical information into clear, accurate, and audience-appropriate content using correct English, AP style, and accepted journalistic standards.
• Knowledge of journalistic principles and modern communications platforms, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media; proficiency with posting strategies, analytics, social listening tools, and emerging communications technologies.
• Proficiency in desktop publishing, graphic design, digital media production, website content management systems, and an understanding of printing, video, and digital production processes.
• Ability to supervise communications staff; establish and maintain effective relationships with leadership, media, and the public; exercise sound judgment under pressure; and meet high-pressure deadlines, including emergency or on-call situations.
• Qualified recommended applicant(s) must undergo and successfully pass: ·Criminal Background Investigation ·Drug Screening Test

Responsibilities

• Serve as the agency’s primary spokesperson and media liaison, representing leadership in interactions with the press and public.
• Develop and execute strategic communications and public relations plans, ensuring consistent messaging across earned media, digital platforms, and outreach channels.
• Lead media relations and content development, including drafting, reviewing, and approving press materials, speeches, talking points, and coordinating interviews and press events.
• Direct and supervise communications staff and functions, including graphic design, video, photography, and digital media production.
• Manage crisis and emergency communications; advise leadership on public messaging; monitor media coverage and public sentiment; and ensure compliance with journalistic standards, AP style, and agency policies.

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
• If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees