Communications Specialist II

Communications Specialist II FT / PT Status – Full-Time Salary – $21.41 - $32.20 Hourly Wage Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid Recruiter – Catherine Spielberg | [email protected] | 801-526-4353 Application Deadline – 8/2/2026* *This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Application Instructions Please submit the following: Resume Cover Letter Three professional writing samples (press releases, speeches, feature stories, newsletters, social media campaigns, talking points or similar work) Key Responsibilities The Utah Department of Workforce Services is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist to help tell the stories of one of Utah's largest and most impactful state agencies. Serving more than one million Utahns each year through workforce development, employment services, public assistance, refugee services, rehabilitation and other critical programs, Workforce Services is looking for a strategic communicator who can translate complex policies and programs into clear, compelling information that informs, educates and builds public trust. This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional who enjoys meaningful work in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer, creative storyteller and strategic thinker who can simplify complex topics, identify compelling stories and develop communications that connect with diverse audiences. Successful candidates are self-directed, exercise sound judgment and produce polished, high-quality work with minimal supervision. They are collaborative, adaptable and thrive in an environment where priorities can shift quickly while maintaining accuracy, professionalism and attention to detail. Key Responsibilities Translate complex programs, policies and initiatives into clear, engaging communications for the public, media, stakeholders and employees. Research, write and edit a variety of communications materials, including press releases, talking points, newsletters, website content, social media, video scripts, reports and other public-facing materials. Develop and implement strategic communications plans that support department priorities and initiatives. Identify and tell compelling stories that highlight the impact of Workforce Services programs and the people they serve. Coordinate media relations, including responding to media inquiries and supporting interviews and public events. Monitor news coverage, industry trends and emerging issues to inform communications strategies. Support executive leadership with messaging, presentations and public communications. Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a dynamic environment. Ensure communications are accurate, consistent, accessible and aligned with department branding and messaging. Analyze communication efforts and recommend improvements based on audience engagement and performance. Handle sensitive information with professionalism, integrity and discretion. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Required Qualifications Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications strategies across multiple platforms. Exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills, with the ability to explain complex topics in clear, engaging language. Strong storytelling abilities with experience creating audience-focused content for a variety of formats. Excellent critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment and adapt to changing priorities. High degree of professionalism, integrity and discretion. Experience with media relations and public information. Preferred Qualifications Experience managing social media, digital communications and multimedia projects. Familiarity with AP Style and professional communications standards. Experience writing for executive leadership. Photography, video production or graphic design experience is a plus. About the Role Location – 140 E 300 S Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111 United States Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check. Schedule Code – TL - Time limited Why You Should Join Our Team In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah , click here . Other benefits may include: Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization. Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support. The Agency The mission of Workforce Services is to strengthen Utah's communities by supporting the economic stability and quality of our workforce. Today, more than 2,200 Workforce Services employees assist individuals in preparing for and finding jobs, meeting workforce needs of Utah businesses, administering temporary assistance, and providing economic data and analysis. Through a collaborative approach, the department has served millions of Utahns and has become a leader on several statewide initiatives. These include intergenerational poverty, homelessness, affordable housing, supporting refugees, helping rural communities, serving veterans and individuals with disabilities, and getting Utahns trained and back to work. To learn more about Workforce Services, click here. EEO Statement The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.