What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Lead position at State of Washington?
Description
The Department of Revenue’s Customer Experience and Communications (CEC) Division is a team of creative collaborators, strategic thinkers, and idea generators who bring clarity and connection to every corner of the agency. If you excel at guiding communication strategy, translating complexity into compelling content, and leading cross-divisional projects that shape public understanding—this Communications Lead (Management Analyst 5) role may be your next opportunity.
This position supports Revenue's vision and mission, as well as the Agency's customer experience goal to "Build relationships. Empower Success."
This is a Full-time Project position expected to last through June 30, 2029
Revenue is a dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused on achieving the agency's goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ , people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups, maximizing potential through opportunity. We offer a generous benefits package that includes defined benefit retirement plans; health, dental and vision coverage, deferred compensation plans, and, as a public service employee, you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness.
Visit dor.wa.gov/careers to watch our recruitment video to find out more about our agency and see what our employees say about why Revenue is a great place to work.
Flexibility and Location
We value work-life balance and offer the convenience of hybrid remote and in-person work. This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. Some in-office days are anticipated during the onboarding process and throughout this project. This schedule will be based on in-person needs, largely at our office in Tumwater, WA, and may change from week to week. All employees on this team are expected to be in the office once per month for division-wide meetings. Additional events, meetings, trainings, or other work in the office is scheduled in advance and generally held at our office in Tumwater, WA.
Please review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.
Duties
This Communications Lead sits at the center of CEC’s creative and strategic engine, applying expert analysis and project leadership to develop, implement, and evaluate communication strategies that support some of the agency’s most visible and complex initiatives—including legislative rollouts.
In this role, you’ll help shape how millions of Washingtonians understand tax changes, public services, and new initiatives. Your work will bring clarity to complex topics, strengthen trust in public institutions, and support equitable access to information.
Key Responsibilities Include
Qualifications
The required qualifications are key competencies that have been successfully demonstrated through experience or education. To join our team, you must possess the following knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies:
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-divisional teams and manage complex communication projects, gained through progressive experience coordinating legislative, policy, or organizational initiatives.
Proven ability to translate and simplify complex tax, policy, or legislative information for public audiences, supported by experience developing plain-language materials, presentations, or web content.
Progressive experience conducting communication planning and analysis, including assessing customer needs and determining effective education or outreach methods across multiple delivery channels.
Demonstrated skill in developing, producing, and overseeing communication products such as web content, videos, publications, and presentations using tools like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software.
Proven ability to research, interpret, and summarize complex issues—particularly legislative or policy changes—to support organizational planning, communication strategy, and leadership decision-making.
Demonstrated ability to write, edit, and review materials using Plain Language principles, as shown through experience producing accessible content for diverse internal and external audiences.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams such as digital designers, web specialists, change management experts, and agency leadership in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
Demonstrated interpersonal and relationship-building skills gained through experience working with staff across divisions, representing an organization on interagency initiatives, and supporting customer experience goals.
Progressive experience monitoring and evaluating communication plans or public-facing programs, including presenting findings or feasibility analyses to management or executive stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to manage time and prioritize multiple projects in an office environment with frequent interruptions and competing deadlines, supported by experience working under general direction and independent judgment.
Equity Competencies
Preference may be granted to candidates with complimentary expertise in:
To be considered, complete the online application in detail and attach:
Questions?
Hello, my name is Lance, and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20-year Department of Revenue employee, I understand the importance of finding a rewarding career with a work-life balance. At Revenue, we pride ourselves in connecting talented individuals with opportunity and would like to answer any questions you have.
Please contact any part of the Staffing team at Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.
Supplemental Information
The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
This position may be covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
The Department of Revenue is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and offer a respectful, inclusive culture for people with disabilities, as well as members of all protected groups and statuses. We encourage you to apply.
If you need help during the application process, please call the Human Resources Office at 360-704-5731. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Although this opportunity may have telework options, you must reside in Washington State. Do you live in or plan to relocate to Washington State?
This position requires at least one in-office day per month, and potentially more for specific events, trainings, and activities. Are you able and willing to travel to Tumwater, Washington at least monthly?
How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
Incomplete applications or applications received without these materials may be disqualified. Did you attach the following?
Will you now or in the future require the Department of Revenue to commence ("sponsor") an immigration case in order to employ you (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration case)? This is sometimes called "sponsorship" for an employment-based visa status.
The Department of Revenue’s Customer Experience and Communications (CEC) Division is a team of creative collaborators, strategic thinkers, and idea generators who bring clarity and connection to every corner of the agency. If you excel at guiding communication strategy, translating complexity into compelling content, and leading cross-divisional projects that shape public understanding—this Communications Lead (Management Analyst 5) role may be your next opportunity.
This position supports Revenue's vision and mission, as well as the Agency's customer experience goal to "Build relationships. Empower Success."
This is a Full-time Project position expected to last through June 30, 2029
Revenue is a dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused on achieving the agency's goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ , people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups, maximizing potential through opportunity. We offer a generous benefits package that includes defined benefit retirement plans; health, dental and vision coverage, deferred compensation plans, and, as a public service employee, you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness.
Visit dor.wa.gov/careers to watch our recruitment video to find out more about our agency and see what our employees say about why Revenue is a great place to work.
Flexibility and Location
We value work-life balance and offer the convenience of hybrid remote and in-person work. This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. Some in-office days are anticipated during the onboarding process and throughout this project. This schedule will be based on in-person needs, largely at our office in Tumwater, WA, and may change from week to week. All employees on this team are expected to be in the office once per month for division-wide meetings. Additional events, meetings, trainings, or other work in the office is scheduled in advance and generally held at our office in Tumwater, WA.
Please review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.
Duties
This Communications Lead sits at the center of CEC’s creative and strategic engine, applying expert analysis and project leadership to develop, implement, and evaluate communication strategies that support some of the agency’s most visible and complex initiatives—including legislative rollouts.
In this role, you’ll help shape how millions of Washingtonians understand tax changes, public services, and new initiatives. Your work will bring clarity to complex topics, strengthen trust in public institutions, and support equitable access to information.
Key Responsibilities Include
- Translate complex legislation into clear, accessible stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
- Analyze communication needs and develop strategic plans using expert judgment and a customer-focused lens.
- Lead customer-experience-driven communications for medium to large cross-divisional projects, including legislative rollouts and technology initiatives.
- Advise agency leadership on communication strategy, customer impacts, and effective audience engagement.
- Collaborate closely with digital designers and the website redesign team to shape accessible, user-centered online content.
Qualifications
The required qualifications are key competencies that have been successfully demonstrated through experience or education. To join our team, you must possess the following knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies:
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-divisional teams and manage complex communication projects, gained through progressive experience coordinating legislative, policy, or organizational initiatives.
Proven ability to translate and simplify complex tax, policy, or legislative information for public audiences, supported by experience developing plain-language materials, presentations, or web content.
Progressive experience conducting communication planning and analysis, including assessing customer needs and determining effective education or outreach methods across multiple delivery channels.
Demonstrated skill in developing, producing, and overseeing communication products such as web content, videos, publications, and presentations using tools like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software.
Proven ability to research, interpret, and summarize complex issues—particularly legislative or policy changes—to support organizational planning, communication strategy, and leadership decision-making.
Demonstrated ability to write, edit, and review materials using Plain Language principles, as shown through experience producing accessible content for diverse internal and external audiences.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams such as digital designers, web specialists, change management experts, and agency leadership in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
Demonstrated interpersonal and relationship-building skills gained through experience working with staff across divisions, representing an organization on interagency initiatives, and supporting customer experience goals.
Progressive experience monitoring and evaluating communication plans or public-facing programs, including presenting findings or feasibility analyses to management or executive stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to manage time and prioritize multiple projects in an office environment with frequent interruptions and competing deadlines, supported by experience working under general direction and independent judgment.
Equity Competencies
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Uses an equitable and inclusive approach.
Preference may be granted to candidates with complimentary expertise in:
- Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
- User-centered design principles and complex data analysis.
- Plain Talk writing techniques.
- Methods for determining need for public information/education and evaluating the effectiveness of public relations programs.
- Work cooperatively and effectively within a team environment.
- Effectively communicate with individuals at all levels of the organization.
- Provide leadership and commitment to support continuous improvement of operations.
To be considered, complete the online application in detail and attach:
- A cover letter explaining your qualifications for this position.
- A resume highlighting your work experience.
- Note - Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Questions?
Hello, my name is Lance, and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20-year Department of Revenue employee, I understand the importance of finding a rewarding career with a work-life balance. At Revenue, we pride ourselves in connecting talented individuals with opportunity and would like to answer any questions you have.
Please contact any part of the Staffing team at Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.
Supplemental Information
The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
This position may be covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
The Department of Revenue is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and offer a respectful, inclusive culture for people with disabilities, as well as members of all protected groups and statuses. We encourage you to apply.
If you need help during the application process, please call the Human Resources Office at 360-704-5731. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Although this opportunity may have telework options, you must reside in Washington State. Do you live in or plan to relocate to Washington State?
- Yes
- No
This position requires at least one in-office day per month, and potentially more for specific events, trainings, and activities. Are you able and willing to travel to Tumwater, Washington at least monthly?
- Yes
- No
How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
- Washington State's career website: www.careers.wa.gov
- Washington State Work Source office or website (Go2WorkSource.com)
- Washington State employee
- Dept. of Revenue's career website: www.dor.wa.gov/careers
- Dept. of Revenue Staffing Consultant
- College/university career fair or website
- Diversity network meeting/event
- Online job boards
- Other
Incomplete applications or applications received without these materials may be disqualified. Did you attach the following?
- A cover letter explaining your qualifications for this position.
- A resume, highlighting your work experience.
Will you now or in the future require the Department of Revenue to commence ("sponsor") an immigration case in order to employ you (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration case)? This is sometimes called "sponsorship" for an employment-based visa status.
- Yes
- No
- Required Question