Fuse Washington

Communication Specialist, Washington State Senate Democratic Caucus

Salary Range: Based on previous job experience
Closing Date: August 28, 2008

The Senate Democratic Caucus (SDC) consists of all Democratic members of the Washington State Senate. The SDC communications Office is seeking candidates to fill a job opening for Communications Specialist. This is a full-time permanent position.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Communication Specialists are experienced communications professionals who coordinate media, public and stakeholder relation activities for Democratic state senators.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Developing plans for helping senators communicate their policy message to the media, the public, and the stakeholder groups in their districts and beyond;
• Identifying unanticipated communications opportunities in print, TV, radio, and internet outlets;
• Writing speeches and talking points, as well as producing multi-media Web content, news releases, op-eds, letters to the editor, and newsletter and e-newsletter copy;
• Advising senators on effectively communicating a message and how to link communications goals with legislative goals;
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with representatives of regional media, stakeholder groups and local blogs;
• Identifying new tactics for targeted, direct communication efforts with constituents in each member’s district
• Coordinating as needed with policy staff, senators’ legislative assistants and nonpartisan committee staff; and

• Tracking media coverage of senators’ public policy proposals

QUALIFICATIONS:

Successful candidates must be excellent writers who are able to handle multiple tasks, work well under pressure, meet tight deadlines and be proactive. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications or a related field.

Work experience should include five years experience in one or more of the following: writing about public policy, writing for new media, direct communications including but not limited to campaigns, web design and/or web branding and marketing.

Applicants should have a passion for the legislative process have excellent political and strategy judgment, be able to frame complex political issues into a coherent and simple message, and be familiar with new media and the blogosphere.

Candidates able to translate into Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY:

INTERESTED CANDIDATES should send a cover letter, resume and three writing samples
to:

Jeannine Roe
Senate Democratic Caucus
358 Cherberg Building
Olympia, WA 98504-0464
360-786-7477
roe.jeannine@leg.wa.gov

The Washington State Senate is an Equal Opportunity Employer.