Press Secretary (00011)

State of Montana•Helena, MT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position serves at the pleasure of the Superintendent and could end at the end of the Superintendent’s term or at any time the Superintendent determines. Due to the nature of this assignment, you are not eligible for permanent status. However, you are eligible for full-time benefits such as vacation, personal, and sick leave. You are also eligible for a full range of benefits administered by the Healthcare and Benefits Division. This position serves as the Press Secretary within the Superintendent’s Office and is a key member of the Communications team. Working under the direction of the Communications Director, the Press Secretary supports the development and execution of strategic communications for the Superintendent and the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI). The Press Secretary is responsible for drafting and distributing press materials, developing digital and social media content, maintaining website content, supporting public events, and assisting with photography and multimedia production. The position requires strong writing, editing, interpersonal, organizational, and communications skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced public-sector environment and respond appropriately to time-sensitive media and communications needs. The position will work closely with the Communications Director, Superintendent’s Office, OPI divisions and programs, state agencies, education stakeholders, and members of the media to ensure accurate, timely, consistent, and effective communication of agency information. This position serves at the pleasure of the Superintendent and could end at the end of the Superintendent’s term or at any time the Superintendent determines. Due to the nature of this assignment, you are not eligible for permanent status.

Requirements

Knowledge of video production techniques and equipment operation.
Knowledge of creative writing, photography, videography, and basic multimedia production.
Knowledge of special interest groups.
Knowledge of recreational resources.
Knowledge of digital communications, social media, website content management, and public engagement.
Skill in developing press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, speeches, social media content, and other public information materials.
Skill in operating professional cameras and basic photography and video equipment.
Skill in using common computer software, digital communications tools, social media platforms, and website content management systems.
Ability to communicate ideas in an understandable and practical fashion.
Ability to communicate in both oral and written form.
Ability to establish effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, the media, and the public.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team and adapt communications to different audiences and platforms.
Ability to represent the Superintendent’s Office and OPI professionally.
Two years of relevant professional experience in communications, journalism, public relations, media relations, marketing, digital communications, government communications, or a related field; OR An associate degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, digital media, or a related field. Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted.
Must reside in Montana.

Responsibilities

Drafting and distributing press materials
Developing digital and social media content
Maintaining website content
Supporting public events
Assisting with photography and multimedia production
Working closely with the Communications Director, Superintendent’s Office, OPI divisions and programs, state agencies, education stakeholders, and members of the media to ensure accurate, timely, consistent, and effective communication of agency information.