Deputy Public Affairs Manager

Deputy Public Affairs Manager
Our Mission: Keep Washington Safe and Working!
Our Values: Customer Focus, One L&I, Respect, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Learning and Growth, Reliability.

The target pay range typically considered for this position is $86,892-$123,804 annually. The full pay range for this WMS Band is $80,376-$130,320 annually.

As a senior communications leader for the agency, you will advise the Public Affairs Manager, serve as spokesperson, anticipate emerging issues, lead a team of 3–5 communication professionals, develop and execute communication and outreach strategies, and manage the agency's Plain Language strategy.

Responsibilities

Advise the Public Affairs Manager and serve as spokesperson when needed.

Anticipate emerging issues, assess risks and develop communication strategies that support immediate and long‑term agency priorities.

Lead and develop a 3–5 person team of communication professionals while building the division’s digital media capabilities.

Plan and execute communication, outreach, education, marketing, and public engagement efforts that engage workers, employers, and stakeholders.

Manage special projects, including the agency’s Plain Language strategy.

Serve as strategic communication advisor to the Insurance Services leadership team, guiding messaging and data‑informed decisions.

Advise division and agency leadership on public opinion related to sensitive workers’ compensation issues, public concerns, and policy decisions.

Help develop information for external audiences, including legislators and stakeholders.

Oversee and analyze the quality and effectiveness of Insurance Services Division communications.

Oversee the Injured Young Workers Speaker Program, establishing goals, tracking success metrics, and recommending improvements.

Identify opportunities to advance the agency’s mission through earned media, web content, social media, marketing, advertising, and emerging communication channels.

Help organize and lead team meetings, video and photo shoots, speaker presentations, and special events.

Develop staff skills and capabilities, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely information is delivered to internal and external audiences.

Implement the agency’s Plain Language strategy and collaborate with program representatives to review and update key documents.

Required Education, Experience, and Competencies

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or related field.

At least five years’ experience as a reporter, editor, marketing professional, creative content producer, public information officer, or related position at a large public or private entity.

Demonstrated ability to think critically, plan strategically, and exercise sound judgement while managing complex or sensitive issues.

Ability to navigate complex political and stakeholder environments while maintaining productive relationships.

Being sensitive and proactive to public attitudes and concerns.

Working effectively and collaboratively with staff, external partners and stakeholders.

Ability to write clearly and effectively, develop comprehensive communications strategies, provide effective communications advice to top management, manage short‑term and long‑term projects, and lead and serve on teams.

Experience in a leadership position and supervising others.

Experience creating and managing digital media strategy and content.

Ability to take action and to learn and grow.

Ability to respond to the needs of others.

Benefits
State employees who meet the qualifications will become eligible for a generous retirement package at the end of the employee’s career.

Veteran Preference
Applicants wishing to claim Veterans Preference should attach a copy of their DD‑214, NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as Social Security numbers. For further information, contact Jobs@lni.wa.gov.

EEO and Diversity Statement
L&I employees come from all walks of life. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The State of Washington is an equal‑opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need accommodation in the application process or testing process may call 360‑902‑5700. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.

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