State of Colorado
CDA Marketing & Comm & Outreach Director (Marketing & Communications Spec IV).
State of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, United States
CDA Marketing & Communications Spec IV – Director (Marketing & Comm Outreach)
Position posted 6 days ago. Apply among the first 25 applicants.
Department Overview Agriculture is a part of all our lives. When you eat, put on clothes, or care for an animal—your life is touched by agriculture. Colorado's food and agriculture industry generated $47 billion of economic activity in 2019 and supports nearly 5% of the state's workforce. CDA is proud to be a part of such an important industry.
The CDA’s mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado’s agriculture; promote a safe and high‑quality food supply; protect consumers; and foster responsible stewardship of the environment.
Core Values: Partnership, Service, Professionalism, Proactivity, and Respect.
Goal 1: Advancing Local Food Access
Goal 2: Expanding Water‑Resilient Agriculture
Goal 3: Supporting the Next Generation in Agriculture
Goal 4: Advancing Animal Health and Welfare
To learn more about our Department and our wildly important goals, visit our performance plan on the website.
What You Get From Us
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus optional 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical and dental health plans
Employer‑supplemented Health Savings Account ($60 per month)
Paid life insurance and optional additional life insurance options
Paid short‑term disability and optional long‑term disability coverage
11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave accruals
BenefitHub state employee discount program
Employee Wellness program – State of Health
Excellent work‑life programs: flexible schedules, remote work opportunities, free parking, professional development, and more
For the total compensation package, visit https://www.colorado.gov/dhr/totalcompensation.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. We encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. We provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Description Of Job Communications Work Unit duties include direct interaction and service to the public, media, industry groups, and CDA staff. Responsibilities include maintaining the CDA website and general information email account, social media management, public relations, promotions, educational and marketing projects, photography, video, and graphic design production. The unit collects, coordinates, and prepares information, including CORA responses, to release to news media, the agency, the public, and other entities. This includes drafting and distributing news releases, creating social media posts, developing and distributing regular and special internal and external communications, and creating graphic designs. Collaboration with existing Communications staff to support workload and identify areas for process improvement is also essential.
Major Objectives Of The Position The Deputy Communications and Outreach Director drafts communications and messaging for internal and external audiences, ensures materials convey the proper message tailored to their intended audience, and serves as backup to the PIO in the absence of the Communications Director. The position develops and implements CDA’s community and stakeholder engagement strategy, creates a comprehensive suite of communications materials, and supports the Commissioner's Office. It also guides strategic outreach plan creation for other divisions and programs. Key functions include partnering with inter‑agency and external partners for community events, field tours, and conferences, serving as event facilitator, and ensuring accessibility compliance.
Primary Duties Deputy Communications Director
Implement agency communication and stakeholder strategies in coordination with the Communications team.
Research additional avenues to reach public and stakeholder groups.
Create, research, and write department messages, presentations, talking points, and speeches.
Stay current with marketing and communication trends.
Advance statewide promotional and educational campaigns.
Write, edit, and proofread department documents and publications.
Respond to media articles at the direction of the Communications Director.
Coordinate with other state agencies.
Manage the CDA general information mailbox (cda_info@state.co.us).
Respond to general information inquiries promptly and professionally.
Draft, proofread, and edit communications materials and press releases.
Assist in event logistics: loading, unloading, setup, cleanup, and event displays.
Support internal employee communications, including emergency alerts and newsletters.
Act as CDA’s general CORA liaison and custodian of records.
Deputy Public Information Officer (PIO)
Maintain media, stakeholder, and industry mailing lists.
Serve as backup Department contact for media inquiries and news.
Assist media with information about Colorado agriculture.
Respond to media articles and requests.Write and distribute media releases.
Research information for distribution.
Communicate with Governor's Office and other agencies.
Lead crisis communications when serving as backup PIO.
Lead Colorado State Fair communications when assigned.
Agricultural Community Outreach and Engagement
Build and strengthen relationships across the state through targeted outreach.
Serve as Primary Point of Contact for field and community events for the Commissioner.
Collaborate with the Director of Communications on messaging and materials.
Develop and update outreach plans with division directors.
Manage outreach unit budget in collaboration with Business Operations.
Guide community engagement plans across all divisions.
Implement CDA strategic plan and departmental goals related to outreach.
Support Digital Media Specialist’s outreach, planning, and training efforts.
Coordinate with the Commissioner’s executive assistant for field tours and activities.
Identify and develop spokespeople and partners.
Develop talking points and presentation materials.
Serve as point of contact with Commissioners’ Office to other agencies for mutual engagement opportunities.
Organize CDA’s annual legislative river trip (if feasible).
Serve as CDA’s Tribal Liaison.
Crisis Communication Support
Execute crisis communication plans during emergencies.
Engage as part of CDA’s Incident Command System.
Research and write appropriate messages for specific audiences.
Secure translation and interpretation services when necessary.
Train staff for interviews.
Assist the public with follow‑up questions.
Coordinate with federal partners, other states, industry, and agencies.
Distribute information to defend and uphold the agency’s mission.
Participate in the Office of Emergency Management systems such as the Joint Information Center (JIC).
Represent CDA in the JIC and lead JIC work as necessary.
Coordinate with staff to communicate recovery resources.
Draft and revise talking points and messaging.
Develop content and outreach for emergency information for staff and stakeholders.
Prioritize requests and responses in a timely manner.
Apply professional judgment and best practices for public and stakeholder information.
Develop written media responses to public comments and/or media inquiries.
Salary
Biweekly: $2,751.69 – $2,889.23
Annual: $71,544.00 – $75,120.00
Minimum Qualifications
Seven (7) years of experience in community engagement relations, public relations campaign management, project management, community organizing, or related areas. Experience must include work with rural communities and diverse populations.
Preferred Qualifications
One year of experience building relationships with Colorado rural communities and/or the Colorado Agriculture industry.
Experience living in a rural or agricultural community.Experience drafting strategic communications and outreach plans.
Understanding of accessibility principles and guidelines.
Experience in emergency communications or work with a Joint Information Center (JIC).
Conditions of Employment
Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado Driver’s License with ability to travel independently.
Position may require work outside regular business hours.
Must be able to load and unload materials, set up displays, including heavy lifting and outdoor venues.
Must be willing to meet scheduled travel, including overnight travel on short notice.
Required Competencies
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
Knowledge of emergency communications.
Project management skills: multitasking, problem‑solving, prioritization, systems creation, collaboration.
Ability to work in fast‑paced environment and adapt quickly.
Detail oriented.
Strong written and oral communication with diverse communities.
Work well under pressure.
Strong relationship management and representation skills.
Experience with diverse constituencies, rural stakeholders, and communities of color.
Experience with media and proven track record for developing and maintaining trusted relationships.
Excellent negotiation and consensus building skills.
Proactive problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.
Team player, also effective independently.
Additional language skills desired but not required.
Seniority Level Not Applicable
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Other – Government Administration
Additional Information For questions regarding the hiring freeze or employment of a position posted after August 26, 2025, contact CDA Human Resources. All applications must be submitted by the closing date. Please ensure your application fully addresses all minimum and preferred qualifications.
Sections on appeal rights, ADA accommodations, technical support, and E‑Verify are included for applicant guidance.
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Department Overview Agriculture is a part of all our lives. When you eat, put on clothes, or care for an animal—your life is touched by agriculture. Colorado's food and agriculture industry generated $47 billion of economic activity in 2019 and supports nearly 5% of the state's workforce. CDA is proud to be a part of such an important industry.
The CDA’s mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado’s agriculture; promote a safe and high‑quality food supply; protect consumers; and foster responsible stewardship of the environment.
Core Values: Partnership, Service, Professionalism, Proactivity, and Respect.
Goal 1: Advancing Local Food Access
Goal 2: Expanding Water‑Resilient Agriculture
Goal 3: Supporting the Next Generation in Agriculture
Goal 4: Advancing Animal Health and Welfare
To learn more about our Department and our wildly important goals, visit our performance plan on the website.
What You Get From Us
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus optional 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical and dental health plans
Employer‑supplemented Health Savings Account ($60 per month)
Paid life insurance and optional additional life insurance options
Paid short‑term disability and optional long‑term disability coverage
11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave accruals
BenefitHub state employee discount program
Employee Wellness program – State of Health
Excellent work‑life programs: flexible schedules, remote work opportunities, free parking, professional development, and more
For the total compensation package, visit https://www.colorado.gov/dhr/totalcompensation.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. We encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. We provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Description Of Job Communications Work Unit duties include direct interaction and service to the public, media, industry groups, and CDA staff. Responsibilities include maintaining the CDA website and general information email account, social media management, public relations, promotions, educational and marketing projects, photography, video, and graphic design production. The unit collects, coordinates, and prepares information, including CORA responses, to release to news media, the agency, the public, and other entities. This includes drafting and distributing news releases, creating social media posts, developing and distributing regular and special internal and external communications, and creating graphic designs. Collaboration with existing Communications staff to support workload and identify areas for process improvement is also essential.
Major Objectives Of The Position The Deputy Communications and Outreach Director drafts communications and messaging for internal and external audiences, ensures materials convey the proper message tailored to their intended audience, and serves as backup to the PIO in the absence of the Communications Director. The position develops and implements CDA’s community and stakeholder engagement strategy, creates a comprehensive suite of communications materials, and supports the Commissioner's Office. It also guides strategic outreach plan creation for other divisions and programs. Key functions include partnering with inter‑agency and external partners for community events, field tours, and conferences, serving as event facilitator, and ensuring accessibility compliance.
Primary Duties Deputy Communications Director
Implement agency communication and stakeholder strategies in coordination with the Communications team.
Research additional avenues to reach public and stakeholder groups.
Create, research, and write department messages, presentations, talking points, and speeches.
Stay current with marketing and communication trends.
Advance statewide promotional and educational campaigns.
Write, edit, and proofread department documents and publications.
Respond to media articles at the direction of the Communications Director.
Coordinate with other state agencies.
Manage the CDA general information mailbox (cda_info@state.co.us).
Respond to general information inquiries promptly and professionally.
Draft, proofread, and edit communications materials and press releases.
Assist in event logistics: loading, unloading, setup, cleanup, and event displays.
Support internal employee communications, including emergency alerts and newsletters.
Act as CDA’s general CORA liaison and custodian of records.
Deputy Public Information Officer (PIO)
Maintain media, stakeholder, and industry mailing lists.
Serve as backup Department contact for media inquiries and news.
Assist media with information about Colorado agriculture.
Respond to media articles and requests.Write and distribute media releases.
Research information for distribution.
Communicate with Governor's Office and other agencies.
Lead crisis communications when serving as backup PIO.
Lead Colorado State Fair communications when assigned.
Agricultural Community Outreach and Engagement
Build and strengthen relationships across the state through targeted outreach.
Serve as Primary Point of Contact for field and community events for the Commissioner.
Collaborate with the Director of Communications on messaging and materials.
Develop and update outreach plans with division directors.
Manage outreach unit budget in collaboration with Business Operations.
Guide community engagement plans across all divisions.
Implement CDA strategic plan and departmental goals related to outreach.
Support Digital Media Specialist’s outreach, planning, and training efforts.
Coordinate with the Commissioner’s executive assistant for field tours and activities.
Identify and develop spokespeople and partners.
Develop talking points and presentation materials.
Serve as point of contact with Commissioners’ Office to other agencies for mutual engagement opportunities.
Organize CDA’s annual legislative river trip (if feasible).
Serve as CDA’s Tribal Liaison.
Crisis Communication Support
Execute crisis communication plans during emergencies.
Engage as part of CDA’s Incident Command System.
Research and write appropriate messages for specific audiences.
Secure translation and interpretation services when necessary.
Train staff for interviews.
Assist the public with follow‑up questions.
Coordinate with federal partners, other states, industry, and agencies.
Distribute information to defend and uphold the agency’s mission.
Participate in the Office of Emergency Management systems such as the Joint Information Center (JIC).
Represent CDA in the JIC and lead JIC work as necessary.
Coordinate with staff to communicate recovery resources.
Draft and revise talking points and messaging.
Develop content and outreach for emergency information for staff and stakeholders.
Prioritize requests and responses in a timely manner.
Apply professional judgment and best practices for public and stakeholder information.
Develop written media responses to public comments and/or media inquiries.
Salary
Biweekly: $2,751.69 – $2,889.23
Annual: $71,544.00 – $75,120.00
Minimum Qualifications
Seven (7) years of experience in community engagement relations, public relations campaign management, project management, community organizing, or related areas. Experience must include work with rural communities and diverse populations.
Preferred Qualifications
One year of experience building relationships with Colorado rural communities and/or the Colorado Agriculture industry.
Experience living in a rural or agricultural community.Experience drafting strategic communications and outreach plans.
Understanding of accessibility principles and guidelines.
Experience in emergency communications or work with a Joint Information Center (JIC).
Conditions of Employment
Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado Driver’s License with ability to travel independently.
Position may require work outside regular business hours.
Must be able to load and unload materials, set up displays, including heavy lifting and outdoor venues.
Must be willing to meet scheduled travel, including overnight travel on short notice.
Required Competencies
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
Knowledge of emergency communications.
Project management skills: multitasking, problem‑solving, prioritization, systems creation, collaboration.
Ability to work in fast‑paced environment and adapt quickly.
Detail oriented.
Strong written and oral communication with diverse communities.
Work well under pressure.
Strong relationship management and representation skills.
Experience with diverse constituencies, rural stakeholders, and communities of color.
Experience with media and proven track record for developing and maintaining trusted relationships.
Excellent negotiation and consensus building skills.
Proactive problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.
Team player, also effective independently.
Additional language skills desired but not required.
Seniority Level Not Applicable
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Other – Government Administration
Additional Information For questions regarding the hiring freeze or employment of a position posted after August 26, 2025, contact CDA Human Resources. All applications must be submitted by the closing date. Please ensure your application fully addresses all minimum and preferred qualifications.
Sections on appeal rights, ADA accommodations, technical support, and E‑Verify are included for applicant guidance.
#J-18808-Ljbffr