Public Relations Officer- Helena

State of Montana • Helena, MT

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Montana Department of Livestock is seeking a creative, professional communicator with a passion for Montana’s livestock industry to join the Centralized Services Division as a Public Relations Officer. The Public Relations Officer develops and delivers clear, consistent communication that promotes the Department’s mission and programs. This role manages internal and external communications; prepares informational materials; coordinates social media and media relations; responds to public inquiries; and supports special projects directed by the Director’s Office. The position also serves as a communications liaison to internal stakeholders and external partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with a major in public relations, communications, marketing, or journalism.
• Two years of directly related experience.
• Knowledge of Montana livestock, agriculture, and related programs.
• Experience in public relations, social media management, and multi‑format communication.
• Strong writing, editing, public speaking, and relationship‑building skills.
• Understanding of mass media and public‑sector communication.
• Proficiency with social media platforms, traditional media processes, and emerging communication tools.
• Proficiency with MS Office, graphic design and publication programs, and audio/visual equipment used for photography, recording, and editing.
• Ability to quickly learn agency programs, systems, and functions.
• Ability to communicate professionally, respectfully, and persuasively with diverse audiences.
• Ability to maintain organized electronic and physical files.
• Skill in identifying operational and customer needs and resolving problems using critical thinking.
• Ability to deliver exceptional customer service.
• Ability to prioritize workload, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing conditions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated accountability and ethical work practices.

Nice To Haves

• Other combinations of education or experience may be substituted on a case-by-case basis.

Responsibilities

• Develop, edit, and promote informational materials regarding agency programs and activities.
• Distribute materials through press releases, websites, social media, and other communication channels.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with external stakeholders and partner organizations.
• Represent the agency to the public, media, and other agencies.
• Respond to information requests in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain and update agency websites.
• Ensure consistent messaging across all communication platforms.
• Write and/or deliver talking points, speeches, and press releases.
• Engage and influence diverse stakeholder groups.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic communications plan for agency-wide information and outreach.
• Interpret and apply relevant laws, rules, and policies in communications.
• Prepare factual, compelling presentations for various audiences.
• Prepare testimony and supporting materials for legislative committees, boards, and public councils.
• Carry out special projects requested by other Department divisions.
• Serve as Communications Liaison with the Governor’s Office.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and EAP services.
• Retirement: Choice between two retirement plans with strong employer contributions (8.73%–9.07% of annual salary).
• Work/Life Balance: Approximately 38 paid days off annually (vacation, sick leave, and holidays).
• Hybrid or partial‑telework options may be available.
• Career Growth: Extensive opportunities for training, development, and advancement.
• Financial Benefits: Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and potential longevity raises.
• On‑Site Benefits: Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through the state medical plan.

What This Job Offers

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