Communication Specialist

Location:

710 James Robertson Parkway 7th Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower, Nashville, Tennessee 37243 (Hybrid)

Duration:

3+ Months (Possibility of Extension)

Job Summary
The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) seeks a contract Communications Specialist to support statewide maternal health initiatives. This position creates clear, engaging, culturally relevant communications that inform and inspire positive health outcomes for Tennesseans. The role combines strong communication (writing and strategic thinking), graphic design, and critical thinking within a structured government environment.

Key Responsibilities

Content Development & Strategy

Assist the design team in developing and managing content across websites, newsletters, social media, print materials, and reports.

Translate complex health topics into clear, engaging communications for diverse audiences.

Collaborate with subject matter experts, clinical teams, and community partners to create culturally relevant, visually compelling materials.

Create and revise program documents to ensure compliance with ADA requirements, WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines, and Revised Section 508 accessibility standards. Prior experience beneficial but not required; training will be provided.

Produce a monthly newsletter using MyEmma and track engagement metrics.

Prepare quarterly reports measuring communications performance and recommend areas for improvement.

Community Engagement & Collaboration

Support communication planning and outreach for the Maternal Health Task Force and partner organizations.

Build and sustain relationships with internal and external partners to enhance maternal health visibility.

Contribute to campaign development and community education projects that highlight maternal health initiatives statewide.

Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and demonstrate flexibility when priorities shift.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, graphic design, or related field OR equivalent in a non-collegiate portfolio.

2‑5 years of experience in public health, nonprofit, or government communications preferred.

Proficiency in Canva and Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel). Writing and graphic design samples are required.

Experience using MyEmma or similar email marketing tools; reporting platform metrics.

Knowledge of or willingness to learn digital accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA, Section 508).

Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills (include writing samples or bylined links).

Knowledge of cultural competency and sensitivity in health communications.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while working remotely.

Team player who is innovative, flexible, and eager to collaborate toward shared goals.

Must reside in Tennessee.

Work Environment

Remote work arrangement with a supportive, collaborative team culture; hybrid for Tennessee residents only.

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM CST; 37.5 hours/week.

In‑office meetings required every quarter.

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