Communications Manager

Position Details Open until filled Letter of interest is preferred Best to apply by: January 30th What to Expect (timeline subject to change) Application screening: 1st week of February If selected, preliminary interview: 2nd week of February If selected, Interview: 4th week of February LOTT Clean Water Alliance is a regional wastewater treatment utility serving Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Thurston County. We are proud to be a leader in protecting public health and the environment, and we are looking for a Communications Manager to join our team. The Communications Manager will do more than manage existing processes. They will design and build systems that shape how LOTT communicates and oversee LOTT’s award-winning Education Program team at the WET Science Center, which engages thousands of students and community members each year through interactive exhibits and hands‑on learning. The ideal candidate can see the big picture and create systems that turn ideas into action. They are comfortable taking initiative, working independently, and lead with a focus on collaboration and support. Find out more about LOTT at Position Description Organize, coordinate, and supervise staff as assigned. Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies and materials in support of capital projects, planning efforts, emergency response, and other LOTT activities and programs. Identify and develop effective communications tools and networks, including fostering positive media relations and optimizing LOTT's use of social media outlets. Coordinate communication program activities with and provide expertise and assistance to other LOTT staff to plan and deliver presentations and messaging. Develop, maintain, and update communication and outreach materials, such as LOTT's website, social media, reports, presentations, signage, promotional materials, award applications, press releases, and other materials. Gather and compile information, and develop, review, and refine content for communications materials, regularly coordinating with staff and others. Identify and develop engaging visuals, such as graphics, icons, graphs, and photographs to effectively convey ideas and improve communication products. Develop organizational standards (look, feel, functionality, and usage) across all print and digital platforms and materials for the purpose of ensuring brand integrity. Oversee planning and implementation of communication and outreach activities/events like public meetings, workshops, and tours, including coordination of logistics, scheduling, speakers, public notification, promotion, materials and supplies, and staffing assistance. Provide audio‑visual support for meetings, events, and presentations including set‑up, operation, troubleshooting, and equipment breakdown. Understand and ensure public notification compliance in support of capital project planning under State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) regulations and other permit/planning requirements. Respond to public inquiries, comments, concerns, and complaints, working with other staff to respond to a variety of requests for information and to investigate, reply to, and resolve issues. Play an active role in preparations for monthly Board meetings and provide general support for Board activities and initiatives, such as annual retreats and special projects. Serve as LOTT’s media and public spokesperson articulating information clearly for public consumption. Coordinate and lead projects as assigned. Provide backup for other team functions as needed. Demonstrate regular and reliable attendance. Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities Foster a work environment that supports and facilitates LOTT’s Culture of Excellence, including the performance of efficient, effective, high‑quality work, and employee satisfaction. Monitor employee productivity; provide regular, constructive feedback and coaching. Lead by example, maintaining high standards of professionalism, integrity, and performance. Monitor, identify, and resolve personnel, workload, and procedural problems. Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and development of assigned staff. Working Conditions This position works primarily in an office setting, but is required to work in all areas of LOTT facilities. Work includes traveling to off‑site community locations and LOTT facilities in order to meet with community partners, accompany tour groups, and gather information. Due to the size and configuration of LOTT facilities, the ability to climb stairs and sufficient agility to safely navigate uneven terrain and slippery surfaces both indoors and outdoors is required. This position may be exposed to a variety of health and safety conditions including toxic, corrosive, and combustible fumes and chemicals, high‑voltage equipment, and raw sewage. The physical ability to carry or otherwise transport heavy boxes, displays, exhibit furnishings, and equipment is required. Contacts This position will have frequent contact with division team members, staff from across the organization; partner jurisdictions, agency and tribal staff; consultants; community groups; elected officials, and the public. Accountability This position is responsible for curating, leading, coordinating, and contributing to high‑quality, accurate, informational materials and positive communication experiences for both internal and external audiences. Knowledge Strategic communication plan development and implementation. Principles of accountability in the public sector. Principles, best practices, and strategies in media relations, crisis communications, brand stewardship, and reputation management. Administrative principles and practices of program development, implementation, evaluation, and project management. Supervisory skills and techniques. Current issues impacting utility management and industry trends. Current and emerging digital media technologies and methods including social media. Plain talk, Associated Press stylebook, or other writing style guides. Digital marketing, WordPress, audio‑visual (AV) platforms, and multimedia production platforms. Skills Articulate complex issues clearly both verbally and in writing to both technical and non‑technical audiences. High organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail. Effectively organize and prioritize workload to meet competing demands and deadlines. Execute a successful strategic communications plan with proven results. Excellent verbal, written communication and editing skills. Handle sensitive or high‑stakes communications effectively. Strong content creation, writing, and copy‑editing skills for a variety of audiences. Proficient with computer software, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook. Proficient with digital media management and record‑keeping techniques. Operate projectors, microphones, speakers, cameras and other audio‑visual equipment or recording devices. Proficient in Adobe suite tools, or the ability to learn. Proficient with online tools and social media, such as Survey Monkey, Mail Chimp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Zoom. Strong sense for graphic design and layout skills a plus. Ability to Adapt to changing circumstances and rapidly‑shifting priorities. Be progressive and proactive in communications approaches. Conceptualize and design public information materials. Strategically capture and curate key organizational moments. Communicate effectively in a clear, concise, professional manner to a variety of audiences. Develop and lead communication and outreach marketing campaigns/activities to meet program objectives. Manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. Engage diverse communities and audiences of all ages to foster support of LOTT’s mission and services. Exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality. Maintain effective public relations and interact positively with diverse individuals, using tact, patience, and courtesy. Present a positive professional image to the general public, staff, and visitors, providing quality customer service to external and internal customers. Contribute positively to LOTT's team‑based culture and to a supportive, productive, and positive workplace. Produce and edit materials with accuracy and attention to detail while maintaining LOTT’s high standards. Maintain files and records in accordance with LOTT and regulatory requirements. Self‑start and operate with or without daily direction from Supervisor. Work evenings and weekends. Education/Experience Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major study in communications, public relations, journalism, or closely related field, and at least five years of directly related experience in communications, public relations, community engagement, or related field. Must have a minimum of two years of supervisory experience. Knowledge of wastewater treatment, water quality, ecology, and/or related sciences preferred. Professional experience providing public communications services for government agencies, utilities, and/or environmental organizations is desirable. Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position may be considered. Additional Requirements Must participate in LOTT’s Health & Safety Program. #J-18808-Ljbffr