Press Secretary

Job Code #: JC-529388 | Position #: 358-180-5601-001 | Permanent, Full Time | Hybrid telework schedule (employees must reside in California and report to the Sacramento headquarters as assigned)

About the Department

The California Lottery is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise headquartered in Sacramento. It is one of the few state organizations that generates revenue without accepting taxpayer dollars from the state’s general fund. Our mission is to provide supplemental funding for California’s public schools and colleges. In fiscal year 2024-25, the California Lottery generated sales of more than $9.2 billion, with approximately $1.9 billion earned for California public schools. Lottery products are sold at over 23,000 retail locations statewide, including independent neighborhood shops, convenience stores, liquor stores, and supermarkets. Offerings include an average of 52 Scratchers® games and several draw games, such as Powerball®, Mega Millions®, SuperLotto Plus®, Fantasy 5, and Hot Spot®.

We celebrate the contributions of each individual and strive to create an inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming work environment. Our workplace reflects the rich diversity of California, and we are dedicated to preserving the environment by lowering our carbon footprint.

About the Role

At the California Lottery, the communications and media team plays a key role in sharing stories that matter to people across the state. The Press Secretary serves as the department’s spokesperson, helping Californians understand how Lottery funds support public schools in every community. Working closely with the Strategic Communications Supervisor, the Press Secretary meets Lottery winners, connects with journalists, and collaborates with a team of dedicated communicators and creative media professionals to ensure the Lottery’s work is understood and valued by adults statewide.

This position is headquartered in Sacramento and is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule. Travel expenses to and from the assigned headquarters are the responsibility of the employee.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the California Lottery, representing the department in media interactions and public communications.
• Develop and disseminate press releases, statements, and other communications materials to share the Lottery’s impact on public schools.
• Coordinate and conduct media interviews, press conferences, and public appearances.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, media outlets, and stakeholders across California.
• Collaborate with the Strategic Communications Supervisor and creative media professionals to craft compelling narratives about the Lottery’s mission and achievements.
• Engage with Lottery winners and share their stories to highlight the positive impact of Lottery funding.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing insights and recommendations to the communications team.

Requirements

• Current eligibility on the Information Officer I (Specialist) exam. If you need to take the exam or if your score has expired, visit CalHR to gain list eligibility.
• Must reside in California to be eligible for telework per California Government Code Section 14200.
• Must clear a background investigation prior to hire, as required by the California State Lottery Act (no convictions for felonies or gambling-related offenses).
• This position has been designated for bilingual duties; the selected candidate will be required to obtain bilingual certification prior to being hired.
• If basing eligibility on education, provide transcripts and/or a diploma. Applicants with foreign transcripts must submit a transcript evaluation indicating equivalent units. Transcripts may be unofficial at the application stage but official transcripts will be required upon appointment.

Qualifications

The Classification Specification outlines the minimum qualifications for this role. All experience and education related to these qualifications must be clearly demonstrated on your State Application (STD Form 678). The application should also highlight how you meet the desirable qualifications identified in this posting.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, engaging, and persuasive messages for diverse audiences.
• Experience serving as a spokesperson or media liaison, with the ability to represent an organization in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with journalists, media outlets, and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in developing press releases, statements, and other communications materials.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Knowledge of public relations strategies and media trends.
• Bilingual skills are a plus (required for this position).

Benefits

• Onsite restaurant and free gym.
• Proximity to light rail station and electric car charging stations.
• Free parking.
• Professional development opportunities and support for work-life balance.
• Recognition of individual and team contributions.
• Opportunities for Training & Development assignments.
• Inclusive and diverse workplace culture.

Pay

$6,031.00 - $7,547.00 per month. New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or the minimum of the alternate range, when applicable.

Effective July 1, 2025, specific bargaining units and associated excluded state employees are subject to a salary reduction between 2% - 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave hours each month. For details, visit the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) website.