Press Secretary (00011)

State of Montana • Helena, MT

23h

About The Position

The Press Secretary serves within the Superintendent’s Office as a key member of the Communications team. Under the direction of the Communications Director, the position supports the development and execution of strategic communications for the Superintendent and the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI). Duties include 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 role requires strong writing, editing, interpersonal, organizational, and communications skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced public-sector environment while responding appropriately to time-sensitive media and communications needs.

The position works closely with the Communications Director, Superintendent’s Office, OPI divisions and programs, state agencies, education stakeholders, and members of the media to ensure agency information is communicated accurately, promptly, consistently, and effectively. The employee must reside in Montana. The role serves at the pleasure of the Superintendent and may end with the Superintendent’s term or at any time the Superintendent determines. It is a noncompetitive appointment and does not confer eligibility for permanent status.

Requirements

• Reside in Montana.
• Have 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.
• Knowledge of video production techniques and equipment operation.
• Knowledge of creative writing, photography, videography, and basic multimedia production.
• Knowledge of special interest groups and 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, orally and in writing.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and execution of strategic communications for the Superintendent and OPI.
• Draft and distribute press materials, including press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, speeches, and other public information materials.
• Develop digital and social media content.
• Maintain website content.
• Support public events.
• Assist with photography and multimedia production.
• Work with the Communications Director, Superintendent’s Office, OPI divisions and programs, state agencies, education stakeholders, and media members to ensure agency information is accurate, timely, consistent, and effective.

Benefits

• Full-time benefits, including vacation, personal, and sick leave.
• Health coverage.
• Retirement plans; this position is in the PERS retirement system.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays (a combination of up to 38 per year).
• Opportunities and room for professional growth.
• Employment with the State of Montana may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree