Public Information Officer (CC5/COM)

Public Information Officer (CC5/COM)

Salary

$74,748.00 - $100,488.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-06990

Department

Health Care Authority

Division

COM

Opening Date

08/20/2026

Closing Date

9/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Public Information Officer (CC5/COM)

71058477

The Public Information Officer (Communications Consultant 5) is the agency's primary contact for media, handling incoming press inquiries, developing press releases, and preparing agency leaders for interviews and public appearances. The position advises executive leadership on messaging, reputational risk, and crisis communications while building proactive media strategies that help Washington residents understand and trust the agency's health care programs. Based in Olympia with hybrid flexibility, this role is ideal for an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high visibility environment.

All HCA employees will apply an equity lens to their work, which may include but is not limited to all analyses of core business and processes.

About the division:

The Communications Division provides strategic leadership and operational support for external and internal communications on agency business and strategic initiatives for the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA).

About the position:

This position reports to the Chief Communications Officer and serves as the agency's lead Public Information Officer and primary media relations specialist. The position supports the agency's mission by ensuring Washington residents receive accurate, timely, accessible, and culturally responsive information about health care programs and services. It provides strategic communications counsel to agency leadership and program areas on complex, sensitive, and high-profile issues that may generate public interest or media attention. The position develops and implements proactive and reactive media relations strategies that advance agency priorities, increase public understanding of agency programs and services, strengthen public trust, and protect the agency's credibility and reputation.

This position is eligible to telework but is frequently required to report onsite to meet business needs. The default assigned work location of all Health Care Authority (HCA) positions - both on-site and telework eligible positions - is within the State of Washington. This position reports to Olympia, WA. Frequency of onsite work will vary based on business and operational needs. All agency employees are required to report on-site in Olympia on their first and last days of employment to pick up and return state-issued equipment, regardless of telework status or location.

Duties

Some of what you will do:

• Serve as HCA's lead Public Information Officer and primary point of content for local, state, and national news organizations, and as an agency spokesperson, as appropriate.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to agency executives and leaders on complex, sensitive, and high-profile issues involving media relations, public messaging, reputational risk, and crisis communications expertise.
• Manage media inquiries from start to finish, working across HCA and partner agencies to develop accurate, timely, and effective responses.
• Anticipate and proactively identify emerging issues, communications needs, media interest, risks, and opportunities; using sound judgment to develop solutions, recommend strategies, and move work forward independently while keeping communications leadership informed of significant developments and decisions.
• Lead proactive media outreach strategies that advance agency priorities, identifying opportunities to increase public understanding of agency programs, initiatives, policy changes, and executive priorities.
• Identify, develop, and pitch compelling stories that reflect diverse communities and lived experience and highlight agency efforts to improve health outcomes, advance health equity, and increase access to care for Washingtonians.
• Write and develop executive and public-facing communications including key messages, talking points, statements, press releases, op-eds, briefings, and other materials that translate complex issues into clear, compelling, and accessible language.
• Prepare and coach agency executives, leaders, and subject matter experts for media interviews, press conferences, public appearances, and other high-profile engagements.
• Plan and coordinate press conferences, media briefings, public announcements, and other media events in partnership with agency leadership, program staff, partner organizations, and media representatives.
• Develop strategic communications plans for major agency initiatives, policy changes, and emerging ussies, working across communications functions to ensure messaging and strategies are coordinated and aligned across channels and audiences. Coordinate closely with the Governor's Communications Office, partner agencies, and communications colleagues across state government to ensure timely, accurate, and aligned public messaging.
• Lead and support communications during emergencies and crisis response and participate in agency Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning and preparedness.
• Help strengthen HCA's media relations capabilities by developing protocols, recommending strategies, monitoring media coverage and trends, providing media training, and sharing expertise with communications staff, subject matter experts, and agency leaders.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:

Option 1:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, English, or a related field
• And four (4) years of professional experience in communications, public information, public relations, media relations, journalism, or a closely related field.

Option 2:

• Associate degree in communications, public relations, journalism, English, or a related field
• And six (6) years of professional experience in communications, public information, public relations, media relations, journalism, or a closely related field.

Option 3:

• Eight (8) years of professional experience in communications, public information, public relations, media relations, journalism, or a closely related field.

Required competencies:

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Previous experience working with the media
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to write and edit a variety of communication products, including press releases, talking points, briefing materials, speeches, reports and public-facing content.
• Ability to serve as a spokesperson and communicate effectively with media, executives, elected officials, stakeholders, and the public.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Knowledge of plain language and accessibility communication practices.

Note: This position application requires a professional writing sample, media publication, or sample portfolio in addition to the attached cover letter and resume.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience developing and executing both proactive and reactive media strategies, including identifying and pitching earned media opportunities.
• Experience preparing and coaching executives, leaders, or subject matter experts for media interviews, press conferences, and other high-profile engagements.
• Experience planning and coordinating press conferences, media briefings, or other significant media events.
• Experience coordinating communications across multiple programs, organizations, or government entities
• Experience communicating complex health care, Medicaid, public health, health policy, or human services programs to diverse audiences
• Experience analyzing media coverage, communications metrics, and emerging issues to inform communications strategy
• Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity, adapt to changing priorities, and develop strategic communication recommendations in rapidly evolving environments.

How to apply:

Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach in separate files:

• A cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the qualifications for this position
• Current resume
• A professional writing sample, publication, or sample portfolio demonstrating applicable skills in this field.

To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

• Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
• Please black out any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Supplemental Information

About HCA:

Functioning as both the states largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.

There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.

What we have to offer:

• Meaningful work with friendly co-workers who care about those we serve Voices of HCA
• A clear agency mission that drives our work and is person-centered HCAs Mission, Vision & Values
• A healthy work/life balance, including alternative/flexible schedules and mobile work options.
• A great total compensation and benefit package WA State Government Benefits
• A safe, pleasant workplace in a convenient location with restaurants, and shopping nearby.
• And free parking!

Notes:

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.

HCA 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. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at HCAjobs@hca.wa.gov.Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Lisa Fleming at (360) 725-1723 or lisa.fleming@hca.wa.gov

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an E-Verify employer. All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply.

E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.

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

I acknowledge that this opportunity will require some travel and in-person site visits. I also acknowledge that telework is a privilege and may be revoked at any time.

• Yes
• No

02

Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:

• High school graduation or equivalent
• Associate degree
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree or higher
• None of the above

03

Which of the following best describes your professional experience in communications, public information, public relations, media relations, journalism, or a closely related field?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 4 years
• More than 4 years, but less than 6 years
• More than 6 years, but less than 8 years
• More than 8 years

04

Which of the following best describes your professional experience with writing and editing a variety of communication products, including press releases, talking points, briefing materials, speeches, reports and public-facing content?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 4 years
• More than 4 years, but less than 6 years
• More than 6 years, but less than 8 years
• More than 8 years,

05

Which of the following best describes your professional experience with preparing and coaching executives, leaders, or subject matter experts for media interviews, press conferences, and other high-profile engagements?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 4 years
• More than 4 years, but less than 6 years
• More than 6 years, but less than 8 years
• More than 8 years

06

If you indicated you have the experience(s) noted in the above questions, please explain how, where, and when you gained this knowledge and experience (must be reflected in the work experience of your application). Do not state "see resume" or copy and paste that material. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.

07

Do you have the ability to take action to learn and grow?

• Yes
• No

08

Do you have the ability to take action to meet the needs of others?

• Yes
• No

09

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

10

Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?

• Yes
• No

11

I acknowledge that I have included at least three references, and that I have uploaded a cover letter, resume, and work sample in the attachments section of my application.

• Yes
• No

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