Communications Associate Jobs in Rensselaer, NY (NOW HIRING)

Duties Description The New York State Department of Labor's Communications team is looking for a Public Information Specialist 2 (Digital Content) who has experience interacting with the news media, has exceptional writing and proofreading skills, and can simultaneously manage several projects on tight deadlines. The ideal candidate has experience serving as an official spokesperson, dealing with crisis communications and brand management, identifying opportunities for organizational amplification, and supervising and mentoring staff. Public Information Specialist 2 (Digital Content) duties include, but may not be limited to: In coordination with the Communications management team, responding to media inquiries and protect the DOL brand.

Writing impactful news releases, speeches, and talking points. Identifying opportunities to amplify the DOL brand. Pitching story ideas to news outlets.

Helping manage news conferences, media engagements, and other live events across NYS. Developing and maintaining solid relationships with news outlets. Supervising and mentoring staff lower-level subordinates.

Minimum Qualifications NON-COMPETITIVE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Seven (7) years of experience* in public relations, social media, and digital communications. *Associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in Communications, English, Public Relations, Social Media, Digital Communications, or similar degree, may substitute for two, four, or five years of experience respectively. Or one (1) year of experience as a Public Information Specialist 1 (Digital Content).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to initiate and maintain relationships across a diverse set of stakeholders. Experience working with local and national media outlets. Proven work experience developing and delivering informative, well-written messaging.

Excellent creative and institutional writing skills for news releases, video scripts, and executive speeches. Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize a busy workload to meet tight deadlines. Experience working with and writing for a principal.

Exceptional customer service skills. NYS government experience a plus. Two years related experience helping to plan and manage the implementation of assigned digital communications projects.

Strong written and verbal communication skills. You must submit at least three writing samples that showcase your skills. (news releases, op-eds, digital content scripts, speeches, etc.) Additional Comments Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the salary range listed above

If you are a current NYS employee and have questions regarding salary, please contact the Business Services Center (BSC): 518-457-4272, BSCHR@ogs.ny.gov. Telecommuting is available and can be discussed during the interview. NYS Department of Labor does not participate in E-Verify and does not sponsor visa applications

Employment at the Department of Labor is contingent upon the maintenance of a valid work authorization and necessary documentation to work legally in the United States. Please note: Due to operational requirements and funding considerations of various divisions/positions, there could be occasions in the future where unit assignments may change. Should this occur, it will not impact your title, salary or location.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: 13 paid holidays, 5 personal days, and a minimum of 13 vacation days per year Paid sick leave (CSEA and PEF employees- 13 days; M/C employees- 8 days plus free enrollment into the Income Protection Program for short-term and long-term disability coverage). Choice of several affordable and competitive health insurance plans Dental and vision insurance plans at no additional cost Membership in the NYS Employee's Retirement System NYS Deferred Compensation Investment Plan Eligibility to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) (full-time employees) Eligibility to apply for tuition reimbursement for qualifying employees and courses Paid Parental Leave Our mission is to provide outstanding services to our customers - the workers and business that call New York home. We help New Yorkers find careers they will love.

We build and support New York's businesses. We empower and protect New York's workers. To learn more about our mission and the exciting work of the DOL, please visit: https://dol.ny.gov/about-us DOL is committed to fostering employee engagement and work-life balance

We offer telecommuting and alternative work schedules to eligible employees. Eligible employees may be approved to telecommute, if operationally feasible, up to 2 days per regular work-week, and not to exceed 4 days per two-week pay period. Telecommuting can be discussed at the time of interview.

Our exciting training and development opportunities, including Coursera and our formal Employee Recognition Program allow us to develop, recognize, and celebrate our workforce. Please note that specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, length of State service, and program area. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.