Tobacco Communications & Policy Specialist

Public Health Educator III Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Public Health Educator III Opening Date: June 16, 2026 Closing Date: June 30, 2026 Job Class Code: 4374 Grade: 23 (04) Salary: $49,275.20 - $69,139.20 per year Position Number: 02000-2136 Location: Augusta This position allows for partial telework with management approval. Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions. Job Description The Tobacco Prevention and Control Program within the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is looking for a Public Health Educator III to support statewide communication efforts and legislative monitoring activities. The Program oversees the Tobacco Prevention & Control efforts for the State of Maine. Program Elements Tobacco Treatment (including Maine Quitlink, “My Life, My Quit”, and School-based Treatment) Health Systems work Tobacco Prevention (including Maine Prevention Network) Retailer training and inspection Internet sales inspection, Data analysis and program evaluation Major Responsibilities Assisting with the work of the media contract Developing and reviewing program and campaign website updates Posting to the Program Listserv Forecasting and responding to media and public requests for information In this position, you will work with and support the prevention and enforcement partners and lead the Tobacco Programs effort to track and coordinate relevant legislative work. You Will Be Responsible For Ensuring contract compliance with deliverables and reporting requirements Managing invoice approvals and denials. Additionally, you will review invoices and assist the program manager in ensuring services are delivered within the scope of the contracts. This position may require travel in and out of state. Core Responsibilities Collaborating with the Tobacco Program Manager and the Tobacco Prevention & Control Team to develop statewide Tobacco prevention, treatment, enforcement programs as well as the development of mass reach campaigns and strategies Collaborating with the Mass Reach Health Communications (MRHC) contractor, contract administrator, and staff to ensure contract deliverables completion Leading efforts to review and update program, campaign, and Prevention store websites Building and expanding communication partnerships Disseminating health information through the Program listserv, presentations, and exhibits Assisting with responses to media, constituent inquiries, and program emails Reviewing and updating Program policies and procedures Assisting Program staff and contractors in state and community initiatives related to tobacco planning, legislation, and policy work (ex. local level tobacco-free policies, Maine Tobacco Retailer Training) Tracking and coordinating legislative work on topics relevant to the Division Participating in Maine Prevention Network collective meetings Collaborating with contractors and vendors to provide technical assistance, as requested by the Tobacco Program Manager Participating in other Program, Division, Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention meetings and activities as requested, including Tobacco Prevention & Control Team and Tobacco Advisory Council meetings. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelors Degree in Public Health, Community Health Education, Health Education and two (2) years experience in community or health education program planning, development, implementation, and evaluation. Directly related work experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis. Preferred Candidates Excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to gather, synthesize, and summarize information from a variety of sources Demonstrated skill in applying best practices and standards for health communication, page layout, and information design. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of internal and external partners Computer skills, including experience with graphic design software Knowledge of and experience with website development and maintenance Benefits of Working for the State of Maine No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—\"Dirigo\" or \"I lead\"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including: Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($12,845.82 - $15,112.76 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State. Health Insurance Premium Credit – Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements. Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($395.72 annual value). Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS). Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including non-birthing and adoptive parents—receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act. State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness. As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time. #J-18808-Ljbffr