Senior Communications Strategist

The Information Specialist V performs highly advanced (senior-level) informational work. Work involves researching, writing and editing informational materials and publications for use by the agency, the public and other governmental agencies.

The Information Specialist V will write, produce and/or coordinate the production of key agency reports and communication materials that highlight the agency's work. They must possess a mastery of grammar, spelling and punctuation, and they must have the ability to translate complex content into clear, concise and compelling communication products. The Information Specialist V may plan, assign and/or supervise the work of others.

They work under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Job Functions:

EJF1: Publications. (20%) Develops organizational publications, news and information releases, editorials, educational articles, technical documents, and other printed and digital products for internal and external distribution. Interviews and researches sources to ensure the completeness and accuracy of communication products.

EJF2: Editing. (20%) Reviews and edits a wide variety of products to ensure consistency with OIG brand guidelines and AP style. Translates complex information into plain language for use by stakeholders and the general public.

EJF3: Reports. (20%) Coordinates the writing, editing and publishing of agency reports in accordance with statutory and OIG requirements. Ensures reports are reviewed by executive leadership and disseminated as required.

EJF4: Presentations and Speeches. (20%) Develops clear and compelling presentations for external audiences. Writes and edits speeches, talking points and other messaging documents for the agency's executive leadership.

EJF5: Other. (20%). Performs other duties as assigned.

Manages or participates in OIG special projects. Makes recommendations for improvements to communications products and processes as appropriate. Assists in the development of content for digital media and monitoring of digital media channels. Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of the news media, publishing, broadcast and public relations industries.

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.

Knowledge of techniques and methods of planning, organizing and writing various types of communication products, research methodology and accessibility standards.

Knowledge of communication principles, strategy and standards.

Knowledge of various State of Texas rules and regulations and/or Health and Human Services programs, policies and procedures.

Skill in the use of the English language to create and edit, with exceptional attention to detail, a variety of written and spoken communication products.

Skill in the use of AP style.

Skill in interpersonal relationships.

Skill in the use of Microsoft Office Suite programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Skill in the use of Adobe Creative Suite programs (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).

Ability to develop innovative ideas for the content of communication products.

Ability to research, compile and analyze facts and information from internal and external sources.

Ability to draft, write or otherwise compose a diverse array of communication products related to the goals and priorities of the agency, including but not limited to reports, publications, informational articles, technical documents, website and social media content, scripts, talking points and presentations.

Ability to edit the work of others to ensure correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, conformation with style and branding guidelines, and suitability for various types of audiences.

Ability to translate complex topics and information into a clear, concise and compelling narrative for communication products.

Ability to develop, evaluate and implement communication plans, policies, procedures and strategies.

Ability to manage multiple, sometimes conflicting priorities, without jeopardizing deadlines and desired outcomes.

Ability to make independent judgments, organize, and set work priorities.

Ability to gather and analyze facts to devise solutions to problems while working under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

Ability to communicate effectively and to assign or supervise the work of others.

Ability to function as a team member and to develop and maintain effective working relationships with various levels of stakeholders within and outside OIG and the Health and Human Services System. Registration or Licensure Requirements:

N/A Initial Selection Criteria:

Required

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university. Degrees in journalism, public relations, communications or related fields are generally preferred. Work experience may be substituted for a degree at the hiring manager's discretion.

• Five years of experience in journalism, public relations, communications or a related field.

• Experience writing and editorial concepts and practices.

• Experience producing professional communications products, to include conceptualizing, researching, drafting, editing and distributing.

Preferred

• Experience in writing and editing in AP style.

• Experience in the use of Microsoft Office suite products.

• Experience in translating complex topics into compelling presentations and publications.

• Experience creating compelling content for digital media platforms.

• Experience working at a Texas state agency and/or knowledge of health and human services programs. Additional Information:

Requisition Number 602493

Consideration will be given to known past job performance, if applicable, and prior work history.

All applicants considered for an interview will be sent a request to provide responses to one or more essay questions, a request for writing samples, and may be sent an additional exercise. Failure to respond to the requests could disqualify an applicant from the interview process.

This position is eligible for telework, with some exceptions for in-office meetings and as required by the employee's supervisor.

The OIG is responsible for preventing, detecting, auditing, inspecting, reviewing, and investigating fraud, waste, and abuse in the provision of HHS in Medicaid and other HHS programs. Potential employees of OIG are subject to criminal background checks in accordance with the HHS Human Resources policy. Selected applicants must complete a national fingerprint-based criminal background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to determine if they have criminal history record information that constitutes a bar to employment.

OIG will request that all applicants considered for an interview provide responses to essay questions. Failure to respond to the request could disqualify an applicant from the interview process.

Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual.

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747.

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview. MOS Code:

46A, 46S, 46Z, 165X, MC, 4502, 4505, 4591, 35PX, 3N0X6, INF, PA

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747.

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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