Employment Type : Full-Time
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified candidates to fill the Communications Specialist – Design & Intranet position within Access and Eligibility Services (AES), Strategic Engagement and Employee Support – AES Internal Communications. AES is driven by its mission to connect Texans, services and supports by helping individuals and families in need of food, medical care, cash assistance and other social services. 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.
Under the supervision of the Manager for AES Internal Communications, the Communications Specialist focuses on overall internal communications of Access and Eligibility Services (AES), to provide intranet administration and content development support for a wide range of communication programs and special projects.
The Communications Specialist participates in variety of initiatives that encompass communication strategy, web support, internal campaigns, writing, editing, creative thinking, multimedia conceptualization and implementation. The role will also provide general support for overall internal communication initiatives and works as part of a close-knit communications group.
The responsibilities of the Communications Specialist vary and will include functioning as a strategist and project manager, creative consultant, web developer, advisor, multimedia specialist, copywriter and editor, as well as providing support for general communication matters.
The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that emphasizes: innovation through new ideas, striving for excellence by taking pride in your work, embracing our differences as a source of strength, accomplishing more through partnership, leading by example, and learning for continuous improvement.
Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Essential Job Functions:
Manages key aspects of Access and Eligibility Services intranet, including design work, page and content development plus some technical troubleshooting. (30%)
Designs images and logos for internal initiatives and communications (30%)
Serves as writing support for AES internal communications - including (but not limited to) newsletter articles, intranet content, staff talking points, video scripts, presentation speaker's notes and email messages. Coordinates with subject matter experts to develop complete, accurate and compelling content. Generates creative and engaging themes for messaging to capture attention in a fast-paced environment. (10%)
Provides strategic counsel to divisions within AES on methods to streamline communications and reinforce strategic messaging in an engaging way. (5%)
Participates in creating, organizing and executing communication plans for key AES initiatives - including development of an editorial calendar. (5%)
Contributes to the development of mechanisms for evaluating the effectiveness of communication to inform changes for improvement. (5%)
Works collaboratively with HHS Communications division by providing key facts to be included in stories on specific to AES initiatives. Also, acts as a liaison between AES and HHS Communications as needed to support to their development of external client communications. (5%)
Attends various project workgroups and brainstorms to provide guidance on communication and identify opportunities to ensure staff are given timely information on various initiatives. (5%)
Acts as a "quality check" proofreader for content written by other team members. (5%)
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of general professional writing principles and standards.
Knowledge of Associated Press Stylebook.
Knowledge of libel, slander and copyright laws.
Skill in identifying, developing and conveying information and ideas.
Skill in researching, planning, developing and accessing communications materials.
Knowledge of and skill in using communication and change management tools (Microsoft Project, web posting, publisher, etc.).
Knowledge and skill in using Adobe Creative Suite for design work.
Knowledge of basic HTML coding and SharePoint administration.
Ability to seeing hidden problems, looking beyond the obvious, and responding accordingly.
Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities.
Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.
Ability to think creatively and support creative thinking in others.
Ability to build strong relationships with other key staff.
Ability to write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles.
Skill in using a personable and approachable verbal communication style with the ability to quickly gain the respect of staff at all levels; practices attentive and active listening.
Ability to respond to requests with a sense of urgency, partiality, accountability, integrity and speed.
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Initial Selection Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in journalism, communications, public relations, English or related field.
At minimum, 3 years’ experience with progressively increasing responsibilities in areas such as communication, web content, and organizational communication strategy development and execution.
Experience with government or large organization communication programs and strategies.
Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and web/intranet administration.
Advanced writing and verbal communication skills.
Additional Information:
REQ 474568
MOS Code:
46Q, MC, 340, 4341, 3N0XO