Communications Specialist

Strategy and Performance Division – Communications Team Department of Economic Development Harry S Truman Building – 301 W. High Street, Jefferson City, MO ANNUAL SALARY : $47,000 – $53,200 (based upon credentials) The salary indicated represents a base pay rate. If the individual selected is eligible for a pay differential (e.g., years of service), it will be added to the total compensation in your paycheck. A pay differential does not raise your base pay. Why You’ll Love This Position The Communications Specialist supports DED’s mission by creating digital content, strengthening online accessibility, and producing high-quality visual communications that elevate the department’s brand. This role plays a critical part in ensuring information is accurate, accessible, visually engaging, and aligned with strategic priorities to help Missourians prosper. As a member of the DED Communications Team, duties for this position exist to help promote the department’s services and protect its reputation by telling stories through trustworthy communication. Graphic Design & Visual Communications Design graphics and visual assets for digital, print, social media, reports, presentations, and events. Ensure all creative materials reflect DED brand standards and maintain visual consistency. Develop visual storytelling tools that simplify complex economic development information. Support multimedia efforts, including visual elements for video production. Website Content Maintain DED website content through the state’s Drupal platform. Ensure content is timely, accurate, and aligned with department messaging and branding standards. Coordinate with internal divisions to update program pages, announcements, reports, and resources. Monitor website performance and recommend improvements to enhance user experience and engagement. Digital Accessibility & Compliance Guide and support implementation of state and federal digital accessibility requirements (including ADA and WCAG standards). Conduct regular audits of web pages, documents, and multimedia content to ensure compliance. Provide guidance and training to staff on accessibility best practices. Collaborate with ITSD and program teams to remediate accessibility issues. Additional Responsibilities Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) tools and large language models (LLMs) to enhance content development, research, message testing, and workflow technology. Provide communications support to all DED divisions across platforms and initiatives, while serving as cross-trained backup to Communications team members as needed. Serve as department liaison with OA Division of General Services – Document Solutions for DED print requests. Handle photography for internal and external events to support communications, marketing, and organizational storytelling. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Development, or related field (or equivalent experience). Experience managing website content through the Drupal (or similar) platform. Knowledge of digital accessibility standards and best practices. Proficiency in graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite or comparable platforms). Strong written and verbal communication skills, strict attention to detail, and ability to collaborate with multiple internal teams. Preferred Qualifications Experience working in public sector or economic development environments. Basic understanding of web design tools, such as HTML/CSS. Competencies Strategic thinker with strong organizational and verbal communication skills. Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and compliance. Collaborative team player with a service mindset. Adept at managing multiple projects (from initiation to completion) in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and ensure client needs are met through excellent customer service. The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here. HRHelpdesk@ded.mo.gov. #J-18808-Ljbffr