The Maine Senate Majority (Democratic) Office is currently hiring for the position of Communications Director. The ideal candidate is resourceful, adept at balancing and pivoting between multiple priorities, and can work both as part of a team and independently.

The Senate Majority Office staff supports and enhances the work of the Maine State Senators in the Democratic caucus as they carry out their duty to serve their constituents and strives to have tangible, positive impacts on the lives of all Maine people. The SMO Communications Director works with the Senate President’s Office Communications Director in designing and implementing an effective communications strategy on behalf of caucus members and legislative leaders.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $80,000-$92,000 (Grade 9 of the Legislative Salary Schedule) depending on skills and experience; salary is accompanied by the strong state employee benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, paid vacation and sick time, retirement benefits and paid parental leave.

Job Description:

The Communications Director works directly with the Majority Leaders and under general supervision of the SMO Chief of Staff, and with the SPO Communications Director, to serve all members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. At present, the caucus is 22-members strong — the largest majority either party has held in approximately 30 years. The Communications Director helps message the legislative priorities of the caucus to the press, constituents and members of the public, adjusting strategies based on target audience and medium. The Communications Director must be able to problem-solve and trouble-shoot issues brought to them from both senators and fellow staff members.

Responsibilities

● Oversees the day to day communications deliverables of the SMO including:

○ Regular email newsletters

○ Scheduled columns and op-eds

○ Interviews with and statements for media outlets

○ Speaking opportunities

○ Talking points on major issues

○ Annual print newsletter project

● Serves as a point of contact for members of the press, and helps caucus members effectively communicate their priorities through the press

● Provides guidance and resources to Legislative Aides and other SMO staff in the development of constituent communications, newsletters, as well as radio, video and other social media outlets.

● Researches, writes, assigns and edits press releases, as needed and in collaboration with the SPO Communications Director

● Organizes press events for caucus members

● Drafts or delegates speeches for caucus members, especially caucus leadership

● Drafts columns for caucus leadership

● Works with the Digital Communications Manager on digital communications planning and the maintenance/update of website, https://www.mainesenate.org/

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree and four years of experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Journalism, public relations, political or legislative background is preferred.

· Excellent writing skills including demonstrated understanding of AP Style, and ability to address diverse audiences.

· Familiarity with Maine’s news landscape, including print and broadcast outlets, as well as knowledge of emerging media tools and trends.

· Working knowledge of the following programs and platforms:

o MailChimp

o WordPress

o Canva

o Adobe InDesign and Photoshop

· Proven ability to meet deadlines and maintain quality of output.

· Ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team; strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to develop and manage systems.

Knowledge of the functions of Maine state and local government and the legislative process.

To apply:

Interested applicants should send a cover letter, current resume, two brief writing samples at least one of which is written in someone else’s voice, and minimum two references by email to the Chief of Staff at jenna.howard@legislature.maine.gov. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.