Communications Specialist

The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), Division of Family Health and Wellness is seeking a talented and motivated contract Digital Communications Specialist to support statewide maternal health initiatives. This position plays a vital role in creating clear, engaging, and culturally relevant communications that inform and inspire positive health outcomes for Tennesseans.

This is a hybrid role that requires both communications and graphic design skills.

We’re seeking a collaborative and creative thinker who is passionate about public health, values teamwork, and brings fresh ideas to help strengthen our outreach efforts. The ideal candidate is adaptable, detail-oriented, and thrives in a mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Content Development & Strategy

• Assist the design team in developing and managing content across a variety of platforms, including websites, newsletters, social media, print materials, and reports.

• Assist the design team in translating complex health topics into clear, accessible, and engaging communications for diverse audiences.

• Collaborate with subject matter experts, creative teams, and community partners to design culturally competent and visually compelling materials.

• Maintain and update program web pages in alignment with ADA/WCAG 2.1 AA and Revised Section 508 accessibility standards.

• Produce a monthly newsletter using My Emma or similar platforms and track engagement metrics.

• Prepare quarterly reports that measure communications performance and recommend areas for improvement.

Community Engagement & Collaboration

• Support communication planning and outreach for the Maternal Health Task Force and partner organizations.

• Build and sustain productive relationships with internal and external partners to enhance maternal health visibility and impact.

• Contribute to campaign development and community education projects that highlight maternal health initiatives statewide.

• Work collaboratively within a supportive, multidisciplinary team and demonstrate flexibility when priorities shift.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field OR the equivalent reflected in a non-collegiate portfolio.

• 2–5 years of experience in public health, nonprofit, or government communications preferred.

• Proficiency in Canva and Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel. Graphic design samples required.

• Experience using My Emma or similar email marketing tools. Experience reporting platform metrics.

• Knowledge of, or willingness to learn, digital accessibility standards in compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508, ensuring that online content is accessible to individuals with visual and other disabilities.

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills (please include writing samples or bylined links).

• Knowledge of cultural competency and sensitivity in health communications.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while working remotely.

Additional Details:

• Tennessee Residents Only

• Monday–Friday, Standard Business Hours (8:00AM-4:30PM CST) - 37.5 hours per week

• Hybrid with some in-office meetings are required every quarter at supervisor discretion

• 6 Month Contract | Strong Potential for Extension or Temp-to-Perm - funding provided by TDH Screening and Treatment for Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders (MMHSUD) grant program.