Communications Specialist II

Full-time, hybrid position based in Salt Lake City, UT (140 E 300 S). Salary range: $21.41 - $32.20 per hour. Background check required.

About the Role

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.

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.

Requirements

• 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.

Benefits

In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture.

• 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.

About 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, including intergenerational poverty, homelessness, affordable housing, supporting refugees, helping rural communities, serving veterans and individuals with disabilities, and getting Utahns trained and back to work.