Communications Assistant at Olympia

Job Description

The Washington Health Benefit Exchange (Exchange) is a statewide program being developed as a new marketplace for individuals and small businesses in Washington State to purchase private health insurance coverage and have access to tax credits, reduced cost sharing, and public programs such as Medicaid. The Exchange, a key provision of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, must be fully functioning to begin operating on October 1, 2013 for health insurance coverage beginning on January 1, 2014.

SUMMARY

The Communications Assistant is an entry-level position reporting to the Exchange’s Senior Communications Specialist. This role will work closely with the Senior Communications specialist to provide local, regional and national media outlets with timely responses to media requests. It will also perform writing and editing duties relative to communication reports, newsletters, magazine articles, news releases and speeches. S/he will help determine the need for publicizing or promoting interest in programs, policies, and services, monitor trends, and help evaluate the effectiveness of communications.

The successful candidate will be an excellent writer, self-motivator, adaptable, accountable, well-organized and creative individual who operates with the highest level of integrity. The Communications Assistant will efficiently handle multiple requests with transparent prioritization and achieve effective outcomes.

This is a temporary full-time position that is funded until December 31, 2014.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate an understanding of the public relations industry and its basic principles.
• Research, track and analyze media coverage of Washington Healthplanfinder and health reform trends.
• Write, edit and proofread materials including media releases, monthly newsletters, matte articles, pitch letters, web content and speeches.
• Monitor engagement, create content and assist in the development of analytics reports for Washington Healthplanfinder social media channels.
• Maintain up-to-date media distribution lists and demonstrate working knowledge of relevant regional and national media contacts.
• Inform communications staff of any timely new items and breaking stories that may influence the organization.
• Perform administrative tasks in direct support related to events, website updates, database management and content organization of communication information and materials.
• Assist in the development of compelling messaging about Exchange priorities and opportunities for public participation.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

Core business hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Travel requirements will be limited to local travel, however there may be occasions were an employee is required to travel and work irregular hours to attend meetings or trainings. Duties of this position require the use of standard office furniture and equipment (e.g. desk, filing cabinet, computer, printer, telephone, fax machine, copy machine, etc.).

The working conditions and physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Candidates under final consideration for an initial appointment within the Exchange are subject to a background check.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and levels of work being performed.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills of personnel so classified.

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract.  Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. 
 
NOTE:

During the application process, you will be asked to upload your resume, please include a cover letter with that document.

Job Requirements

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or related field AND at least one year of internship or professional experience in communications, journalism, or public relations.
• Proven track record for taking ownership and driving results.

NOTE:  Qualifying experience may substitute year for year for education.

Desired:

• Exceptional writing and editorial skills.
• Experience working with the media to place stories as well as responding to inquiries.
• Excellent verbal communications skills, including the ability to present materials and conduct meetings.
• Content management including fact checking, brevity and clarity, developing and delivering effective messages to target audiences.
• Familiarity with broad range of communication tools and techniques, including social media and other emerging technologies.
• Ability to work independently; excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Experience with governmental operations; awareness of sensitive issues and protocols.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of people and participate with teams in different capacities.
• Familiarity with consumer and market research; ability to target strategies to reach specific audiences.
• Proficiency using Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Country: USA, State: Washington, City: Olympia, Company: Washington Health Benefit Exchange.