Communications Director

Description

Idaho State Public Defender (SPD)

Non-Classified Announcement

Applications will be accepted through 4:59 PM MST on the posting end date.

The Idaho State Public Defender (SPD) is hiring for a full-time Communications Director to join our dynamic team. SPD is a newly created state agency which provides trial representation to indigent criminal defendants pursuant to Idaho Code § 19-5905. The SPD is responsible for all indigent defense cases throughout the State of Idaho, including both juveniles and adults. We are looking for an innovative person who can work collaboratively, communicate clearly and who is driven by a commitment to public defense.

The SPD values its employees and offers meaningful work that has a direct impact on citizens across the state. Additionally, the SPD is a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Notice: This position is exempt from classified state service and the rules of the Division of Human Resources and the Idaho Personnel Commission.

BENEFITS:

Best Retirement Available in The Nation

The State of Idaho has one of the Nation’s best state retirement systems (PERSI) that offers a lifetime benefit.

Other Excellent Benefits

• Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance – employee coverage for PPO $65/month for medical and vision and $11.80/month for dental (full-time).
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual will begin as soon as you start.
• Paid parental leave.
• Eleven paid holidays per year.
• Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401K and Deferred Compensation plan.
• Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Wellness Programs.

POSITION & RESPONSIBILITIES

The Communications Director will execute a comprehensive communication strategy for the SPD that supports the agency’s overall mission of serving indigent clients and improving the quality of public defense across the state. We are seeking candidates with excellent communication and public relations skills. Qualified candidates must have the ability to cultivate relationships and engage internal and external audiences, including clients, staff, defending attorneys and the public. This is a newly created non-classified position for the Idaho State Public Defender.

We are looking for candidates that possess the following skills:

• Organizational skills and excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong writing and editing skills with careful attention to detail.
• Creativity with an eye for visual and branding consistency.
• An ability to adapt to change as necessary and thrive in a developing agency.
• An ability to handle confidential, proprietary and sensitive information requiring judgment and discretion.
• Professionalism, focus and an ability to meet deadlines and juggle multiple tasks.
• Self-directed with an ability to work independently but also have the ability to cultivate relationships and collaborate.

Example of Duties

• Implement communication strategies consistent with the SPD’s mission and vision.
• Monitor effectiveness of the communication strategies to achieve the desired goals.
• Promote strong internal communication within the statewide agency and throughout the local public defender offices across the state.
• Design and implement statewide communications for major initiatives.
• Identify sensitive internal and external situations and respond accordingly. 
• Conduct presentations to a wide variety of audiences including clients, staff, defending attorneys, and the public.
• Oversee the SPD website and its content.
• Advance the agency’s reputation through public relations strategies that drive purposeful messaging and engagement in support of the SPD’s mission and goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Three to five (3-5) years of experience directly related to the job responsibilities reflected above.
• Highly effective communication skills, both verbal and written, including excellent public speaking skills.

Ideal candidates should have the following:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a directly related field.
• Experience working with government agencies, non-profits or business organizations.

LOCATION

Boise, Idaho. As Idaho’s capital, Boise is a growing city of approximately 240,000 and serves as the headquarters for several major national and international corporations. Boise offers a rich variety of both cultural and recreational opportunities. Idaho’s world-famous fly-fishing, biking, skiing, kayaking, and hiking are all within close proximity.

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants who would like to apply for this position must submit the following: 1) cover letter, 2) resume, 3) two references, and 4) two writing samples. Application materials must be submitted no later than February 21, 2024. Application materials should be submitted through the Careers with the State of Idaho website, https://statecareers.idaho.gov/, and not directly to the agency. 

For inquiries on this position, please contact Jennifer Cichocki at [email protected].

EEO/ADA/Veteran:

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [email protected].

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

*Benefits may not be applicable for temporary or seasonal positions.