Deputy Communications Director - Marketing & Comm Specialist IV - DCPHR.

Overview The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is dedicated to the Colorado for All philosophy. This hybrid position may require in‑person office presence based on supervisory discretion. Position Summary The role is the second‑in‑command Communications Leader in the Disease Control and Public Health Response Division (DCPHR) Communications Unit. The incumbent assists the Division Communications Director, serves as interim Director when needed, and manages media relations, strategic communications planning, crisis and executive communication support. Key Responsibilities Escalate high‑risk media inquiries and responses to the Division Director, Communications Director and Senior Director of External Affairs and Communications before release. Write and edit press releases, media advisories, responses and pitches. Respond to media inquiries promptly. Coordinate with the CDPHE Office of Communications to align media materials with Governor’s Office and agency priorities. Draft and revise talking points with subject matter experts for DCPHR and CDPHE spokespersons. Maintain media trackers, coordinate interviews, crisis communications and interview preparation for spokespersons. Represent DCPHR in department‑wide communication coordination efforts, including strategic planning, emergency coordination and risk escalation. Ensure DCPHR communications follow department protocols, approval processes and escalation requirements. Serve as primary deputy to the Division Communications Director, managing daily operations of the communications unit. Assume full authority of the Director in absence, representing the Division in meetings and emergency activations. Align communications plans, messaging and public materials with department protocols, division priorities and enterprise strategies. Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans for disease outbreaks and public health initiatives. Provide strategic guidance for content and graphics across web, social media and reports to ensure consistency and brand alignment. Coordinate with internal partners and external stakeholders to synchronize messaging across all channels. Apply the CDPHE Communications Framework, including plain‑language reading level, AP style and inclusivity standards. Ensure all public‑facing content meets Colorado digital accessibility laws and best practices. Foster a “no surprises” culture; brief leadership on high‑profile content before publication. Coach staff on creative problem‑solving to balance accuracy and plain language. Reinforce adherence to communication protocols, escalation pathways and executive coordination expectations. Coordinate with senior leaders regarding priorities, enterprise alignment and emerging risks. Assign work, monitor workflow and verify quality, timeliness and alignment with unit objectives. Implement methods, procedures and processes to improve workflow and productivity. Monitor employee performance, provide feedback and coaching, and contribute to performance plans and evaluations. Guide staff on assignments and project status, establish work schedules and review attendance and workplace behavior. Identify training needs and communicate them to the supervisor. Minimum Qualifications Residency – Only residents of the State of Colorado at the time of application are eligible. Experience Only – Seven years of relevant experience in communication planning, press release writing, public relations with elected officials and media relations to promote the organization. Education and Experience – A combination of related education (public relations, journalism, marketing or communications) and experience equivalent to seven years of relevant work. Preferred Qualifications Experience in public health communication. Managing high‑volume, rapid‑turnaround media inquiries under tight deadlines. Working with multiple competing priorities. Working with diverse groups and the general public. Supporting community partnerships. Experience with digital engagement platforms, analytics and communication tools. Collaborating with executives and business stakeholders. Contingency planning to adapt and prioritize competing priorities. Benefits Free parking and access to RTD bus lines. Flexible working arrangements. Retirement and medical/dental plans. Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, optional 401(k) and 457. Paid life insurance. Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage. 11 paid holidays per year plus personal time off. Tuition assistance. Wellness programs. Professional development opportunities. Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system. Conditions of Employment Pre‑employment background check. Minimal in‑state travel, may require overnight stays. Critical status: Expected to work and/or remain at the worksite during delayed start, early release or closure situations. Critical status: Available during emergencies (e.g., bioterrorist attack, chemical attack, disease outbreak) and required to report immediately to the regular or alternate location. Critical status: Available during Continuity of Operations Plan activation and required to report immediately to the regular or alternate location. Appeal Rights Applicants removed from consideration may request a review by the State Personnel Director. Appeals must be submitted within ten calendar days of notice using the official appeal form and emailed to View email address on click.appcast.io. Application Process Applications are reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications. Qualified candidates move to the next step. Colorado Revised Statutes require merit‑based hiring. Up to six candidates may be invited for interview. E-Verify CDPHE uses e-Verify to confirm eligibility of newly hired employees to work in the United States. ADA Accommodations CDPHE is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to inclusion. The agency assists individuals with disabilities with reasonable accommodations throughout the employment process. Requests can be directed to the ADAAA Coordinator at View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io, option 5. #J-18808-Ljbffr Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment