Communications Specialist III

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Job location
710 Second Avenue, Suite 1000
Seattle, WA 98104
United States
Organization information
Organization name: 
King County, Department of Public Defense
Street address: 
710 Second Avenue, Suite 1000
City: 
Seattle
State: 
Washington
ZIP: 
98104
Job type: 
Communications/Development
Position Description: 

The Department of Public Defense (DPD) provides legal representation and client-centered services to the more than 15,000 clients DPD serves a year. The Department consists of approximately 400 employees and operates one of the largest public defense agencies in the western United States. DPD represents indigent clients in several practice areas, including felonies, misdemeanors, juvenile offenders, dependencies, involuntary commitment, civil commitment of sexually violent predators and contempt of court. The Department also works to address racial disproportionality in the criminal justice system, the collateral consequences of justice involvement and other structural and/or systemic issues that undermine the rights of the criminally accused.

DPD is seeking a Communications Specialist III with strong writing skills which clearly and concisely communicate information internally and externally. Experience in creating and maintaining websites and using digital communication technologies are a must. The position requires commitment to collaboration, juggling multiple assignments in a fast paced environment with rapidly changing priorities. Communications experience which incorporates change leadership knowledge and skills is imperative in this new organization which is building and fostering internal and external relationships. This position reports to the DPD, Director of Operations.

Requirements: 

•Five years of progressively responsible demonstrated communication experience including digital communication and social media technologies, employee communications, writing and editing business materials including reports, informational emails, public information materials, and policy documents
•Demonstrated ability to write powerful stories and compose narratives in direct, conversational tone
•Knowledge of and experience in program management techniques including the ability to influence change management
•Skill in reading and interpreting laws, regulations and guidelines written by federal, state and local agencies. Knowledge of local government and the political process
•Public speaking skills
•Decision-making and problem-solving skills and the ability to resolve conflict, make decisions, solve problems, collaborate and negotiate with colleagues and upper management
•Ability to organize, prioritize and manage multiple programs and projects to meet numerous non-negotiable shifting deadlines. Skills in setting priorities, influencing and persuading co-workers and others
•Customer focused in developing and maintaining professional relationships with internal and external customers. Ability to maintain confidentiality, think strategically and listen effectively
•Ability to research and analyze various technical subject matters; and translate information into easy to understand terms for intended audience
•Washington State Driver's License or other evidence of mobility to travel around the county in a timely manner

To apply: 

Please note: An offer of employment will be contingent on the ability to successfully pass a Washington State Patrol Background Check.

Who May Apply: This recruitment is open to all qualified candidates.

Work Schedule: The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday. This position meets the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not eligible for overtime.

Where to Apply: Interested individuals should submit:•an online King County application
•a resume
•a letter of interest detailing your experience and qualifications with reference to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position.
•A writing sample of a communication to employees
You can find the online application at: http://www.kingcounty.gov/audience/employees/careers.aspx

Applicants may be required to demonstrate their qualifications at the time of the interview and/or skills assessment.

Electronic submission is preferred. For inquiries, please feel free to contact Irma Van Buskirk at [email protected] or 206-263-9002.

King County is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer and we encourage people of color, women, veterans and people with disabilities to apply.

Notes: 
Equal Opportunity Employer
Submission deadline: 
Thursday, March 23, 2017