The Department of Environmental Quality is seeking a public outreach and media relations professional to join our communications team. If you have outstanding communication skills and a passion for protecting the environment, a position as a Public Information Specialist (Specialist) at DEQ may be for you! The Specialist leads communications planning, including strategic media relations and public involvement, for complex environmental issues affecting Montana. Responsibilities include: • developing communication plans and key messages on a wide range of technical environmental issues; • facilitating public involvement in projects; • identifying and addressing emerging issues; • editing, designing and writing news releases, talking points, fact sheets, public notices, articles, and other publications; and • serving as a media liaison and spokesperson. The Specialist collaborates with staff in the Air, Energy, and Mining Division and the Water Quality Division on public outreach, engagement, and communication strategies. The position requires excellent interpersonal communication skills, time management, and proactive follow-through. At the Department of Environmental Quality, our ultimate goal is to protect public health and the environment and maintain Montana’s high quality of life for current and future generations. We are striving to make our workplace a supportive and fun environment that fosters a work/life balance. Come and be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality! To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter through the State of Montana Careers site. In your cover letter, describe how your experience, skills and abilities have prepared you for this position. For positions that are under $78,000 per year: “This position may be eligible for a statutory base salary annual increase of $3,120 effective July 1, 2024.” For positions over $78,000 per year: “This position may be eligible for a statutory base salary annual increase of 4% effective July 1, 2024.” Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree with a major public relations, communications, marketing, journalism, or a related field. • Two years of directly related experience. • Experience should demonstrate: o understanding and application of strategic communication tactics; o ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with diverse partners and stakeholders; o talent for identifying, analyzing, and gathering pertinent information to satisfy communication needs; o skill in preparing press releases, talking points, or other materials that effectively convey accurate information to the public; and o knowledge of public information dissemination methods and techniques. • Experience in natural resources is a plus. Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Title: Public Information Officer Location: Helena Requisition ID: 24141278