Senior Public Health Communication Officer - Limited Service

Overview

The Vermont Department of Health has an exciting opportunity to lead communication strategy for its website, turning evolving and complex public health issues into a clear, accessible and user-friendly online experience for the public.

The Senior Public Health Communication Officer - Web Director will use their expertise in web management and User Experience (UX) to set the vision for HealthVermont.gov and guide the development of web and accessibility initiatives. They will also manage the department's web contract and collaborate with communication experts across the department, providing guidance and training for web editors.

In addition, this position will represent the Communication Office at a senior level and help lead communications during public health events and emergencies.
 

The role involves extensive interactions with department leadership, subject matter experts, other state government leaders and communicators, community partners, and creative services vendors.

Work includes supervisory duties and is performed independently as part of a team under the general direction of the Communications Director. This opportunity is full-time, based in Waterbury, VT and is supportive of a hybrid work schedule, with a minimum of 3 days a week in-person in Waterbury, VT required.

Who May Apply

This position, Senior Public Health Communication Officer - Limited Service (Job Requisition #54139), is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs. 
 
If you would like more information about the duration of this position or other details, please contact Katie Warchut at katie.warchut@vermont.gov.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail.  You must apply online to be considered.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS:  Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position.  In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Duties are performed in office, field and remote settings. Some work outside of normal office hours may be required. Stress will be encountered due to tight deadlines, conflicting opinions, and the result of policy and public communication decisions, especially during public health events and emergencies. The incumbent must be skilled at conflict management and integrating various conflicting viewpoints.

Minimum Qualifications

One (1) year experience as a Public Health Communication Officer, Public Health Marketing Director or a Division Information Director.

OR

Master’s degree in public health, journalism, communication, marketing, public relations or a closely related field AND one (1) year of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Bachelor’s degree in public health, journalism, communication, marketing, public relations or a closely related field AND two (2) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Bachelor’s degree AND three (3) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Five (5) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates who possess experience with:

• Website management and best practices
• Using web analytics tools
• Improving user experience (UX)
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Digital accessibility work
• Superior writing and communication skills

Special Requirements

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
• Low cost group life insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.