Communications Specialist

State of Idaho Opportunity

Idaho Commission on the Arts

Applications will be accepted through 4:59 PM MST on the posting end date or until a job offer is extended and accepted; Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

At the Idaho Commission on the Arts (Arts Idaho) we value Curiosity, Adaptability, Connection, Collaboration and Service and work to ensure that all Idahoans have access to the arts, arts education, and their cultural and artistic heritage.

Responsibilities:

As part of a collaborative and adaptive team, the Communications Specialist develops, organizes, directs, and evaluates comprehensive strategies to inform the public of the activities and objectives of Arts Idaho while supporting agency community outreach initiatives. This position displays a strong knowledge of communications, marketing and public information best practices, project management, writing and creative content development, and is skilled at developing and maintaining stakeholder relationships. The Communications Specialist demonstrates an understanding of Idaho's varied communities and working within the state government structure, tailoring engagement accordingly. The Communications Specialist reports to the Deputy Director and works collaboratively in a support role with agency staff.

• Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive communications plan to advance Arts Idaho’s mission and visibility
• Serve as media contact and spokesperson; coordinate interviews, press coverage, and media relations.
• Act as the agency’s principal writer: research, draft, edit, update, and proofread policies, procedures, publications, and web content.
• Source, create, and manage high-quality content that engages audiences and articulates the agency’s mission and impact; utilize Adobe Suite.
• Coordinate design, content, and production of agency collateral and publications; manage relationships with designers and media professionals as needed.
• Lead and implement digital marketing strategies across platforms.
• Oversee crisis communications planning, training, and implementation.
• Represent Arts Idaho at events and public sessions to promote programs, services, and resources.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal requirements, including Governor’s Office and Transparent Idaho initiatives.
• Serve as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer.
• Maintain communications expenses within the agency’s overall budget.
• Provide support for constituents navigating agency programs, services, and resources.
• Manage communications for Commission meetings.
• Collaborate with staff on agency-wide activities, including surveys, planning, and grant procedures as needed.

• Some knowledge of management practices; program or project planning and implementation. MQ Specialties:

• Experience utilizing problem solving strategies as a responsibility of the job; compiling and analyzing information and/or data and writing reports and/or correspondence in a work setting; providing customer service; leading or facilitating teams or groups; collaborating with other business units, agencies, or organizations; technical writing and communication strategies; advanced computer skills as identified by the appointing authority (such as web development, Front Page, Publisher, InDesign, Dream Weaver, etc);

• Experience interpreting and applying laws and regulation; interpreting and applying contracts; explaining technical program related policies and procedures; reviewing documents for accuracy, completeness and compliance.
• Experience developing and evaluating policies, procedures, training and presentation materials; reviewing documents for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Experience using database management systems for tracking and reporting; presenting information, both verbally and in writing, to both technically and non-technically oriented audiences;
• Good knowledge of MS Office, marketing computer software and online applications (CRM tools, Online analytics, Google Analytics, etc.)
• Some knowledge of project management.
• Some knowledge of marketing principles.

• Excellent low-cost Health, Dental and Vision insurance

• Participation in one of the nation's best state retirement systems PERSI Retirement
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual beginning as soon as you start
• Paid parental leave
• Eleven paid holidays a year
• Multiple retirement plans, including an optional 401k & Deferred Compensation plans
• Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Wellness programs
• Robust ongoing training opportunities
• Benefits Summary (Download PDF reader)

To apply for this position, please submit 1.) a customized letter of interest that addresses the questions below, 2.) a resume, and 3) a list of three professional references. Attach the resume to your online application. Insert your letter of interest and references into the space provided in the supporting documents section of the application.

Your letter of interest should specifically address how your education, training and work experience meet the responsibilities, qualifications, and required skills of the position. Also include in your letter 1) which of the agency values, noted at the top of the job posting, resonates with you the most and why, 2) what appeals to you about working at Arts Idaho? Applications that do not include a letter of interest will not be accepted.

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

*Benefits may not be applicable for temporary or seasonal positions.