Communications Specialist

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, youll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, youll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA):

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture was established as a separate state agency by the Legislature in 2005. The Director of ISDA is appointed by the Governor and is a member of the Governor's Cabinet. The ISDA vision is to be a global leader in innovation and commercialization for food, fuel, and fiber production. For more info click this link: http://www.in.gov/isda/3240.htm

Role overview:

The Multimedia Communication Specialist supports the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) by developing and managing multimedia materials, including graphic design for print publications, social media content, and other departmental communications. Reporting to the Deputy Public Affairs Director, this role provides essential administrative and creative support to ensure high‑quality public engagement and consistent representation of ISDA's mission and initiatives.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

Key Responsibilities:

• Create visually appealing graphics for social media, interoffice communication, and print materials to support department initiatives.
• Manage ISDA's social media sites, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Flickr, etc.
• Assist in press release, news release and other forms of external communication.
• Take photographs and/or videos for internal and external use at various ISDA events.
• Assist in website design, edits and maintenance.
• Assist in responding to constituent inquiries.
• Provide general office support, including mailings, printing and other administrative tasks.
• Coordinate with Division Directors to assist in planning and executing events on behalf of the department.
• Prepare and mail official recognitions for special achievements such as Hoosier Homestead Awards, the annual Indiana Agriculture Photo Contest, AgriVision Award, among other department recognitions.
• Provide support at offsite events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What Youll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

• Effective presentation skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including writing for print, online, and social media.
• Strong understanding of communication strategies, messaging, and audience segmentation.
• Specialized knowledge of journalistic principles and procedures to be followed in the preparation of news releases and other written products.
• Specialized knowledge of methods and techniques of disseminating information to the public and laws governing the release of information, i.e., releases that must be signed to use a photograph of a person.
• Working knowledge of photography and audio-visual equipment.
• Basic knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations relating to the agency.
• Ability to use desktop publishing and graphic design software, as well as social media platforms and website content management software.
• Ability to show good judgment in dealing with the public, other agencies, and news media in a public relations and public informational role.
• A degree is not required. However, at least 5+ years of experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.
• Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Physical Effort:

This role performs work in an environment where sitting for extended periods of time could be expected.

Working Conditions:

This role performs work in a standard office environment.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans

• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards

• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution

• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match

• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options

• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:

• 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers

• Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave

• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off

• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years

• Education Reimbursement Program

• Group life insurance

• Referral Bonus program

• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits

• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

• Free Parking for most positions

• Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.