What are the responsibilities and job description for the Workforce Services Communications Manager position at State of Washington?
Description
The ideal candidate for this role brings a thoughtful, proactive approach to communication and thrives in a fast-moving environment. You are skilled at building relationships, navigating diverse stakeholder needs, and translating policy and program information into compelling, accessible communications. In addition, you lead with integrity, center equity, and bring a steady, solutions-oriented approach to your work. The ideal candidate is confident advising executives, skilled at managing sensitive issues, and experienced in representing an organization publicly.
As the Workforce Services Division (WSD) Communications Manager, you will lead strategic and tactical communications for programs that serve job seekers, employers, and the statewide WorkSource system. You will be a key member of the central Communications Office and an active participant in WSD’s leadership team. Your work ensures that the division’s priorities, services, and initiatives are clearly communicated to the public, partners, and stakeholders. You will also serve as the primary media contact for WSD, working closely with the agency’s Communications Director and colleagues across ESD.
This role directly supports ESD’s mission to promote economic resilience and prosperity by ensuring that Washingtonians have clear, accurate, and accessible information about workforce services and resources.
Duties
Some Of What You Will Do
Qualifications
Required:
Option 1
Must be able to pass Unemployment Insurance (UI) & Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check.
Please submit only the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy.
Additionally, we ask that you not include photographs or external links within your documents. Any documents uploaded through this platform will be securely transmitted electronically to support application review.
Please submit your Resume and Cover Letter with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Supplemental Information
Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson, 360-742-8208 or the Talent Acquisition Team, or Washington Relay Service 711 prior to the recruitment closing. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
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
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a resume and a letter of interest with this applicant packet. Please submit only the required documents and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers, etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy. Please indicate you have attached the required documentation.
Are you a current or former Washington State employee?
Please describe your experience in information, journalism, and/or public relations, including where you obtained that experience.
04
How do you ensure that your communication strategies are data-driven and align with organizational goals? Could you please provide an example of a successful campaign you led using research and data?
05
Can you discuss your familiarity with legislative processes and authorizing environments? How have you incorporated this knowledge into your communication strategies?
06
ESD How did you hear about this job opportunity?
The ideal candidate for this role brings a thoughtful, proactive approach to communication and thrives in a fast-moving environment. You are skilled at building relationships, navigating diverse stakeholder needs, and translating policy and program information into compelling, accessible communications. In addition, you lead with integrity, center equity, and bring a steady, solutions-oriented approach to your work. The ideal candidate is confident advising executives, skilled at managing sensitive issues, and experienced in representing an organization publicly.
As the Workforce Services Division (WSD) Communications Manager, you will lead strategic and tactical communications for programs that serve job seekers, employers, and the statewide WorkSource system. You will be a key member of the central Communications Office and an active participant in WSD’s leadership team. Your work ensures that the division’s priorities, services, and initiatives are clearly communicated to the public, partners, and stakeholders. You will also serve as the primary media contact for WSD, working closely with the agency’s Communications Director and colleagues across ESD.
This role directly supports ESD’s mission to promote economic resilience and prosperity by ensuring that Washingtonians have clear, accurate, and accessible information about workforce services and resources.
Duties
Some Of What You Will Do
- Lead development of strategic and tactical external communications plans for WSD programs and the statewide WorkSource system.
- Serve as the division’s principal communications advisor to executives, program leaders, and partners.
- Develop, administer, and direct complex public information and outreach efforts aligned with agency goals.
- Identify target audiences and craft communication strategies using data, analytics, and customer insights.
- Provide strategic oversight for WorkSourceWA.com and related web properties, ensuring usability, accessibility, and content quality.
- Coach and collaborate with WSD staff on communication planning and execution.
- Write and review a wide range of external communications, including newsletters, updates, reports, social media content, video scripts, and outreach materials.
- Ensure compliance with agency writing, branding, and accessibility standards.
- Organize and lead meetings, workshops, and training sessions related to public information and communications.
- Represent WSD in leadership meetings, cross-agency workgroups, advisory committees, and community forums.
- Coordinate with the Governor’s Office on communications related to WSD programs, as needed.
- Evaluate communication strategies and recommend improvements based on data, research, and stakeholder feedback.
- Maintain relationships with local governments, state agencies, and public/private partners to support communications efforts.
- Lead resource development and execution of annual workplans for the WorkSource Brand and Media (BAM) group.
- Respond to media inquiries and serve as spokesperson for WSD and the statewide WorkSource system.
- Assist with planning and executing news conferences, publicity events, and other public-facing engagements.
Qualifications
Required:
Option 1
- Eight (8) years of equivalent/education experience.
- Experience includes information, journalism or public relations.
- Associates degree involving major study in journalism, communications, public relations, or closely allied field and
- Six (6) years of professional experience in information, journalism, or public relations.
- A Bachelor's degree involving major study in journalism, communications, public relations, or closely allied field and
- Four (4) years of professional experience in information, journalism, or public relations. Additional professional experience in information, journalism, or public relations will be substituted, year for year, for education.
- Public Speaking & Media Relations Competency: Effectiveness in representing the organization externally.
- Strategic Planning & Public Relations Expertise: Proficiency in designing and executing communication strategies.
- Consultation & Leadership Skills: Ability to advise and guide leadership in communication strategies.
- Administrative & Program Management Competency: Proficiency in setting objectives and overseeing communication programs.
- Research & Analysis Skills: Ability to assess public engagement and identify informational needs.
- Program Evaluation Expertise: Proficiency in assessing and enhancing communication initiatives.
- Advisory & Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret public sentiment and advise leadership accordingly.
- Collaborative Communication Skills: Effectiveness in coordinating communication initiatives across departments.
- Training & Facilitation Competency: Proficiency in educating and empowering personnel on communication practices.
- Flexibility & Adaptability Skills: Ability to handle dynamic responsibilities and evolving priorities.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Must be able to pass Unemployment Insurance (UI) & Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check.
Please submit only the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy.
Additionally, we ask that you not include photographs or external links within your documents. Any documents uploaded through this platform will be securely transmitted electronically to support application review.
Please submit your Resume and Cover Letter with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Supplemental Information
Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson, 360-742-8208 or the Talent Acquisition Team, or Washington Relay Service 711 prior to the recruitment closing. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
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
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a resume and a letter of interest with this applicant packet. Please submit only the required documents and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers, etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy. Please indicate you have attached the required documentation.
- Yes
- No
Are you a current or former Washington State employee?
- Yes
- No
Please describe your experience in information, journalism, and/or public relations, including where you obtained that experience.
04
How do you ensure that your communication strategies are data-driven and align with organizational goals? Could you please provide an example of a successful campaign you led using research and data?
05
Can you discuss your familiarity with legislative processes and authorizing environments? How have you incorporated this knowledge into your communication strategies?
06
ESD How did you hear about this job opportunity?
- WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
- WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
- Washington State Employee Referral
- ESD Employee Referral
- Employment Security Department's job web page: WWW.Esd.Wa.Gov
- Monster
- College/university career fair or website
- VERG
- Craigslist
- CareerBuilder
- Diversity Jobs
- Handshake
- Other
- Required Question