Position Information

Are you an experienced communications leader ready to guide a multi-faceted team and help set the public information agenda for a major state agency?

We are seeking a dynamic professional to direct our Communications Division and oversee our public efforts, spanning media relations, internal communications, and creative services production. As a key advisor to leadership, you will serve as a primary driving force behind our public awareness and engagement campaigns.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs, you will have the opportunity to help shape policy, direct strategy, and collaborate extensively with high-level executives and governmental officials at the center of agency-wide initiatives.

Benefits and Perks

At TxDOT, we value work-life balance and are committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive range of benefits and programs, including:

• Retirement Plans
• Alternative and/or Flexible Work Schedules
• Paid Leave and Holidays
• Health Premiums paid at 100% for Full-Time Employees
• On-the-Job Training
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Holistic Wellness Program with Leave Incentives
• Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
• Family-Friendly Policies and Programs

In 2024, TxDOT was recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, and many of our offices statewide are also designated as Texas Mother-Friendly Worksites. These recognitions reflect our dedication to supporting families and promoting a healthy work-life balance.

For a complete list of our total compensation package please visit our Total Compensation Package website

To view benefits available to all State of Texas employees visit Benefits at a Glance | ERS (texas.gov)

Position Description

Directs and manages all activities of the Communications Division to include media relations, internal communications, public strategies, publishing and design services, special events, and district public information personnel. Reports to the Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs. Work involves planning, developing and directing programs, campaigns, and services. Work requires extensive contact with high-level executives, governmental officials and private entities. Employees at this level perform work at the highest level of discretion and independent judgment and are responsible for final outcome.

Essential Duties:

• In collaboration with district leadership, oversees District public information officers and media relations personnel to ensure TxDOT's messages are delivered consistently.
• Oversees and advises on media inquiries and requests, website updates and internal communications.
• Oversees and directs creative services including web services, media productions and graphic design work for the department.
• Oversees internal/external communications, special events, media production, press releases, social media, web initiatives, public strategies and programs.
• Oversees news release preparation and communications relating to TxDOT projects, initiatives, and/or personnel for internal/external distribution and to the media.
• Prepares sensitive and high-level correspondence.
• Recommends staffing and funding for division related activities.
• Recommends to the Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs procedures for Department communication activities.
• Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Communications or related field.

Experience:

• 7 years of experience in communications functions, including traditional media and social media. (Experience can be satisfied by full time or prorated part time equivalent)
• Must have three (3) years managerial/supervisory experience.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid driver's license. This position requires driving a state vehicle.

Competencies:

• Policies and procedures used by the communications media and media relations.
• Establishing plans and setting objectives and goals that support overall business strategy/results; anticipating and adjusting for problems/roadblocks
• Comfortable using agency-approved Artificial Intelligence to refine communications across the state.
• Directing and establishing objectives; clarifying roles and responsibilities through individual performance plans; monitoring and measuring performance against goals; evaluating results and making necessary adjustments to meet deadlines
• Speaking to present images and ideas in a clear, concise, organized, and interesting manner to optimize audience understanding and keep the group focused
• Public relations for maintaining effective working relationships with individuals and groups, both internal and external
• Dealing courteously and effectively with the public
• Persuasion, negotiation, and communication of critical issues
• Planning, coordinating and handling multiple projects within area of responsibility to meet short and long-term deadlines
• Directing the development and implementation of policy and operating procedures
• Communicating complex ideas and information clearly, concisely, and effectively

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Sedentary work: Lift up to 10 lbs at a time and occasionally carry files/small tools
• Light work: Lift up to 20 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 10 lbs
• Standing-prolonged periods of time
• Repetitive Motion-substantial movements of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers
• Close Visual Acuity-work includes data/figures; view a computer screen; extensive reading

Conditions of Employment:

Please read the Standard Conditions of Employment (TxDOT) for all positions.