Communications Consultant 4

Communications Consultant 4

Salary

$64,512.00 - $86,688.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Spokane, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-ER-61366

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

07/21/2026

Closing Date

7/28/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a collaborative Communications Consultant 4 to contribute to the strategic communications and community engagement efforts for transportation projects and programs throughout the Eastern Region (ER), including high-profile and high-impact initiatives. Reporting to the ER Communications Manager, this position will develop and implement proactive communication strategies, inclusive community engagement plans, and culturally responsive outreach that strengthen relationships with agency partners, local communities, tribal governments, and elected officials while supporting environmental justice and WSDOTs strategic priorities. This role serves as a trusted advisor to agency leadership, providing communications expertise, evaluating outreach effectiveness, and recommending innovative approaches that build public trust and support informed decision-making. Strong candidates will possess exceptional written and verbal communication skills, relationship-building abilities, and experience fostering

meaningful engagement with diverse communities.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Communications Consultant will:

• Conduct daily strategic communications efforts; interpret policies and drafts communications related to policy decisions.
• Serve as media contact for the ER on projects, other high-profile/high-impact projects, and during emergencies.
• Research, write, edit, produce, and distribute newsletters, brochures, media releases, websites, briefing papers, correspondence, mass mailings, media lists, speeches, presentations, and other communications tools as needed.
• Edit and maintain agency webpages; design and direct extensive, inclusive, collaborative, and transparent community engagement communications resources and materials.
• Establish and sustain professional relationships with various internal and external WSDOT partners.
• Represent WSDOT in meetings with partner agencies and influential stakeholders; facilitate engagement and achieve support for agency projects, programs, and initiatives.
• Consult and advise upper-level management and participate in decision-making.
• Guide decision-making with internal agency teams, external organizations, and consultant team parties related to public engagement and environmental justice communications in regional projects and programs.
• Act as the lead communicator at any public meeting, open house, stakeholder meeting or other events.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

Strategic Communications & Public Affairs Leadership

• Demonstrated advanced competency in planning, developing, and implementing comprehensive strategic communication and public affairs initiatives for complex, high-visibility issues.
• Ability to assess political, organizational, and community impacts and determine appropriate communication strategies across multiple platforms and audiences.

Community Engagement & Environmental Justice Practice

• Demonstrated experience designing and leading inclusive, culturally responsive community engagement efforts, including engagement with historically underserved, disadvantaged, and limited-English-proficiency populations.
• Ability to apply environmental justice principles and inclusive engagement requirements to transportation project communications.

Media Relations & Public Messaging

• Advanced skill in serving as a media spokesperson, including preparing for and responding to media inquiries, press events, and emergent issues.
• Demonstrated ability to craft clear, accurate, and compelling messaging under tight deadlines and public scrutiny.

Professional Writing, Editing & Content Development

• Advanced competency in professional writing, editing, proofreading, and content development across multiple formats, including web, print, digital, and presentations.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of English grammar, AP style, messaging standards, and accessibility considerations, with strong attention to detail.

Judgment, Decision-Making & Adaptability

• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain professionalism, and adapt communication strategies in politically sensitive, high-pressure, or rapidly changing environments.
• Ability to independently assess risk, recommend solutions, and advise leadership.

Collaboration, Consultation & Influence

• Ability to build trust and maintain productive working relationships with internal teams, executive leadership, partner agencies, elected officials, tribal governments, and community stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience consulting with leadership and participating in strategic decision-making processes.

Service Orientation & Growth Mindset

• Demonstrated commitment to meeting the needs of internal and external customers through responsive, solution-focused communication.
• Actively seeks learning opportunities, feedback, and continuous improvement in communication practices.

The following qualifications are also required:

• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Advanced Relationship Management & Conflict Navigation: Demonstrated ability to work independently and maintain effective working relationships in high stress, politically sensitive, or conflict-driven environments.
• Visual, Digital & Graphic Communications: Knowledge of or demonstrated experience using visual and digital communication tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite, GIS-based tools, Microsoft Office 365, and multimedia platforms. Ability to apply visual storytelling principles to enhance public engagement and understanding.
• Social Media Strategy & Analytics: Experience managing or contributing to social media platforms, using analytics and engagement data to evaluate effectiveness and inform communication strategies. Familiarity with Online engagement tools and survey platforms.
• Multimedia Production: Demonstrated skills or experience in photography, videography, and video editing to support outreach, storytelling, and public engagement activities.
• Organization, Prioritization & Workload Management: Ability to organize, prioritize, and deliver high-quality work while managing multiple deadlines, competing priorities, and diverse stakeholders.
• Transportation, Government & Political Environment Knowledge: Experience or understanding of transportation and construction communications, government operations, public outreach, media relations, and political processes.
• Crisis Communications & Emergency Response: Experience coordinating or leading communication efforts during emergencies or crisis situations. FEMA Public Information Officer (PIO) Emergency Responder certification or the ability to obtain.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This position requires carrying an on-call phone and serving as the agency spokesperson on a 24/7 basis.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. Occasional extended or nighttime hours may be required.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-ER-61366 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Please briefly describe your most recent communications, journalist or media role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

02

Strategic Communications & Public Affairs Leadership: Select the option that best describes your experience developing and leading strategic communications or public affairs initiatives for complex or high-visibility projects.

• I have led enterprise-wide or large-scale strategic communications initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, executive leadership, and significant public visibility, and was responsible for overall communication strategy.
• I have independently developed and implemented strategic communications plans for complex projects or programs with multiple audiences and partners.
• I have contributed to developing and implementing communication plans for projects or programs under the guidance of others.
• I have limited experience supporting communications activities but have not developed strategic communication plans.
• I have no experience developing or implementing strategic communications initiatives.

03

Please briefly describe one example of a strategic communications initiative you led. Include the projects purpose, your role, key stakeholders, communication strategies used, and the outcome. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

04

Community Engagement & Environmental Justice Practice: Select the option that best describes your experience planning and leading inclusive community engagement efforts.

• I have led comprehensive community engagement programs that intentionally engaged historically underserved communities, tribal governments, limited-English-proficiency populations, and other diverse stakeholders while incorporating environmental justice principles.
• I have independently planned and facilitated community engagement efforts that included diverse audiences and inclusive outreach strategies.
• I have participated in community engagement activities and supported outreach events or communications.
• I have limited experience supporting public outreach activities.
• I have no experience with community engagement or public outreach.

05

Media Relations & Public Messaging: Select the option that best describes your media relations experience.

• I have served as the primary media spokesperson, managed media inquiries, coordinated press events, and developed messaging during high-profile or emergency situations.
• I have independently responded to media inquiries and developed media materials for projects or programs.
• I have supported media relations activities by drafting communications or coordinating responses under the direction of others.
• I have limited exposure to media relations.
• I have no media relations experience.

06

Professional Writing, Editing & Content Development: Select the option that best describes your professional communications writing and editing experience.

• I have extensive experience developing, editing, and approving communications across multiple formats, including web content, presentations, speeches, newsletters, media releases, executive correspondence, and digital communications while ensuring accessibility and style standards.
• I have independently written and edited a variety of professional communications for internal or external audiences.
• I have regularly drafted communications with occasional editing responsibilities.
• I have limited experience preparing professional communications.
• I have no professional communications writing experience.

07

Do you have experience applying AP Style, accessibility standards, or organizational communication standards when developing written communications?

• Yes
• No

08

Judgment, Decision-Making & Adaptability: Select the option that best describes your experience making communication decisions in challenging environments.

• I have independently advised executive leadership and made communication recommendations during politically sensitive, controversial, emergency, or rapidly changing situations.
• I have independently made communication decisions for complex situations affecting projects or programs.
• I have provided communication recommendations under the guidance of management.
• I have limited experience making communication-related decisions.
• I have no experience making communication recommendations.

09

Are you able and willing to manipulate and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds?

• Yes
• No

10

Are you willing and able to carry an on-call phone and serve as the agency spokesperson on a 24/7, on-call basis?

• Yes
• No

11

Visual, Digital & Graphic Communications: Select all tools or platforms with which you have professional experience.

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Microsoft Office 365
• GIS or mapping tools
• Website content management systems
• Photography or graphic design software
• Video editing software
• None of the above

12

Please describe how you have used visual or digital communication tools to improve public understanding or engagement. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

13

Social Media Strategy & Analytics: Select the option that best describes your social media communications experience.

• I have developed social media strategies, managed organizational accounts, and used analytics to evaluate and improve communication effectiveness.
• I have independently created and managed social media content and reviewed engagement metrics.
• I have contributed content to organizational social media platforms.
• I have limited experience using social media professionally.
• I have no professional social media experience.

14

Multimedia Production: Select the option that best describes your multimedia production experience.

• I regularly produce professional photography, videography, and edited video content for organizational communications.
• I have independently created photography or video content for outreach or communications projects.
• I have occasionally assisted with multimedia production.
• I have limited multimedia production experience.
• I have no multimedia production experience.

15

Transportation, Government & Political Environment: Select the option that best describes your experience working in transportation, government, or politically sensitive public-sector environments.

• I have extensive communications experience supporting transportation, infrastructure, construction, or government organizations with significant public and political engagement.
• I have communications experience working within government or public-sector organizations.
• I have experience supporting public-facing projects in another industry.
• I have limited knowledge of government or transportation communications.
• I have no experience in these environments.

16

Crisis Communications & Emergency Response: Select the option that best describes your crisis communications experience.

• I have led communication efforts during emergency response or crisis situations and served in a primary communications or Public Information Officer role.
• I have independently supported crisis communications activities, including preparing messaging and coordinating communications during incidents.
• I have participated on teams supporting emergency or crisis communications.
• I have limited exposure to crisis communications.
• I have no crisis communications experience.

17

Do you currently possess a FEMA Public Information Officer (PIO) certification?

• I currently possess a FEMA Public Information Officer (PIO) certification.
• I do not currently possess the certification but am willing and able to obtain it.
• I am not willing or able to obtain the certification.

18

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

• I have a master's degree or higher.
• I have a bachelor's degree.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

19

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.

20

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

21

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov