Job Details
Public Relations Specialist
2026-03-02 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
Here's what we're looking for:
Telework: This position uses a hybrid schedule with required onsite work. The successful candidate must live within a two-hour commuting distance of WaTech's Olympia, Washington office.
We value diversity and different perspectives:
WaTech is committed to providing equal access and opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. We seek to attract and retain a diverse staff and welcome your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. We invite you to include your preferred name and pronouns in your material to ensure we address you correctly throughout the application process.
What WaTech offers:
As an employee of WaTech, you'll have access to an outstanding that includes medical and dental plan options for you and your family, paid leave and holidays, retirement plan options and more.
While WaTech is headquartered in Olympia, Washington, which is near some of the country's most , we are able to offer many of our positions telework and flexible schedule options to help support a healthy work-life balance.
To learn more about WaTech and what our employees enjoy about working here, please .
Additional information about this role:
This position requires a background check. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability to perform in the position and is a continued condition of employment.
How to apply:
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Please select the large "apply" button at the top of this announcement. In addition to completing your online application, please also include the following attachments:
Reminders:
By submitting your materials, you affirm that all information is true and correct. Any untruthful information is cause for removal from the applicant pool. If hired as a result of this recruitment, the discovery of incorrect or falsified information may lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.
Recruitment process:
The first round of application assessments will be conducted seven days after the initial job posting date. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time after the initial seven-day job posting date. It is to the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible. This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions. Final candidates may be asked to provide examples of their work, such as writing samples, design or multimedia pieces, or materials that demonstrate project management experience.
The salary range reflected above reflects the full potential for this position. The base pay offered to the selected candidate will consider the candidate's specific qualifying experience and internal equity of the existing team.
Contact us: For inquiries about this position, please contact Rebekah Wilkes at (360) ###-#### or email to
If you'd like to request an accommodation for any part of the selection process, or to receive the application material in an alternative format, please contact Human Resources at (360) ###-#### or .Persons of disability or those who are deaf or hard of hearing can call the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-###-####.
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. That's 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 (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 (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 , 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
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
Please select the option that best describes how you meet the required qualifications:
02
Please explain how you gained the experience in question #1. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
03
Which of the following do you have five years of experience with? (Select all that apply)
04
Please explain how you gained the experience in each of the areas you selected in question #3. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
05
Do you have six years of professional writing and editing storytelling, crafting executive-level speeches, talking points, publications, reports, web and digital media content?
06
Please explain how you gained the experience in question #5. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
07
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status or F1 OPT etc.)?
08
How did you learn about this WaTech opportunity? Select all that apply.
Required Question
Salary: $73,284.00 - $98,520.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-WaTech-7249-00372
Department: Washington Technology Solutions
Division: ASD
Opening Date: 02/24/2026
Closing Date: 3/15/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Public Relations Specialist
(Communications Consultant 5)
This recruitment has been extended to increase the applicant pool. If you've already applied, you do not need to re-apply.
Join an exciting team!
Join WaTech as a key voice for technology in Washington state government. You will lead high-impact communications projects from start to finish, create clear content across platforms, and translate complex IT and policy topics into plain language people can understand and trust. You will serve as the agency's primary media contact, manage high-visibility initiatives, support executive messaging, and use data to strengthen outreach and public understanding.We are looking for a strong communicator and project manager who balances detail with big-picture thinking. You write and edit with precision, think strategically, and stay organized under pressure. You bring media relations and spokesperson experience, make sound decisions in time-sensitive situations, and manage multiple priorities with confidence. You can step into technical conversations, connect the dots, and turn complexity into clear, accurate stories.
You take ownership of your work, keep projects on track, and bring structure to evolving situations. You collaborate effectively across roles and divisions, ask thoughtful questions, and follow through. This role offers meaningful challenges, professional growth, and the opportunity to deliver work that supports agency goals and builds public trust.
About this position:
The Public Relations Specialist is a part of WaTech's Communications team that delivers relevant, consistent, accurate, and timely information to employees, customers, news media, the legislature, and the public. This position reports to WaTech's Communications Director.
Duties
Some of what to expect with this role:
- Lead and manage communications projects from planning through delivery, supporting agency campaigns, initiatives, and events.
- Write, edit, and produce clear, accessible content across reports, web and digital platforms, newsletters, speeches, and legislative materials.
- Translate complex IT, policy, and technical information into plain language for diverse audiences.
- Serve as WaTech's on-the-record spokesperson and primary media contact, responding to inquiries and supporting proactive media outreach.
- Lead media relations and crisis communications in coordination with agency leadership, partner agencies, and the Governor's Office.
- Prepare press releases, talking points, media kits, and executive briefing materials.
- Create graphics, presentations, and multimedia content that support outreach and accessible storytelling.
- Support engagement through event planning, material development, and onsite communications.
- Track media coverage, evaluate public understanding, and recommend strategies to strengthen communication effectiveness.
Here's what we're looking for:
- Nine years of professional experience in communications, media relations, digital media, marketing, journalism or public affairs. This experience must include:
- Six years of professional-level writing and editing storytelling, crafting executive-level speeches, talking points, publications, reports, web and digital media content.
- Five years of experience in each of the following:
- Media/public relations, including serving as spokesperson and main point of contact for media inquiries.
- Developing and implementing communication strategies across multiple platforms, including print, web, and social media.
- Demonstrated success managing projects, meeting deadlines, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Using visual design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva), social media tools, web content management systems (Drupal) and data analytics.
- Exceptional organizational, planning, and proofreading abilities, showcasing strong time management, attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a commitment to accuracy, clarity, and grammatical correctness.
- A bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or a closely related field may substitute for up to four years of experience.
- Prior communications work in technology or cybersecurity environments.
- Experience supporting executive communications, crisis response, or legislative initiatives.
- Prior communications work in government or public sector organizations.
- Event planning and management experience.
- Experience using generative AI tools.
- Video production and editing skills.
Telework: This position uses a hybrid schedule with required onsite work. The successful candidate must live within a two-hour commuting distance of WaTech's Olympia, Washington office.
We value diversity and different perspectives:
WaTech is committed to providing equal access and opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. We seek to attract and retain a diverse staff and welcome your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. We invite you to include your preferred name and pronouns in your material to ensure we address you correctly throughout the application process.
What WaTech offers:
As an employee of WaTech, you'll have access to an outstanding that includes medical and dental plan options for you and your family, paid leave and holidays, retirement plan options and more.
While WaTech is headquartered in Olympia, Washington, which is near some of the country's most , we are able to offer many of our positions telework and flexible schedule options to help support a healthy work-life balance.
To learn more about WaTech and what our employees enjoy about working here, please .
Additional information about this role:
This position requires a background check. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability to perform in the position and is a continued condition of employment.
How to apply:
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Please select the large "apply" button at the top of this announcement. In addition to completing your online application, please also include the following attachments:
- A current resume detailing your applicable experience, training and/or education.
- A letter of interest highlighting how your experience aligns with the job posting.
Reminders:
- A real person is reviewing your application material. It is in your best interest to complete the application in its entirety and review thoroughly before submitting. You will not be eligible to re-apply for this posting for 30 days.
- Applications with missing or incomplete fields, or supplemental question responses such as "see resume" may be considered incomplete and removed from consideration.
- WaTech complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal Form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. WaTech does not use the E-Verify system. We are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practice Training (OPT) opportunities. For more information, please visit
- Applicants wishing to claim Veterans Preference should attach a copy of their DD-214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. (Please redact any personally identifiable data such as social security number and date of birth prior to submittal.)
By submitting your materials, you affirm that all information is true and correct. Any untruthful information is cause for removal from the applicant pool. If hired as a result of this recruitment, the discovery of incorrect or falsified information may lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.
Recruitment process:
The first round of application assessments will be conducted seven days after the initial job posting date. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time after the initial seven-day job posting date. It is to the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible. This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions. Final candidates may be asked to provide examples of their work, such as writing samples, design or multimedia pieces, or materials that demonstrate project management experience.
The salary range reflected above reflects the full potential for this position. The base pay offered to the selected candidate will consider the candidate's specific qualifying experience and internal equity of the existing team.
Contact us: For inquiries about this position, please contact Rebekah Wilkes at (360) ###-#### or email to
If you'd like to request an accommodation for any part of the selection process, or to receive the application material in an alternative format, please contact Human Resources at (360) ###-#### or .Persons of disability or those who are deaf or hard of hearing can call the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-###-####.
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. That's 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 (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 (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 , 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
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
Please select the option that best describes how you meet the required qualifications:
- I have nine years of experience in communications, media relations, digital media, marketing, or public affairs.
- I have a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or a closely related field AND five years of experience in communications, media relations, digital media, marketing, or public affairs.
- I do not have the required experience and/or education, but I am willing to learn.
02
Please explain how you gained the experience in question #1. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
03
Which of the following do you have five years of experience with? (Select all that apply)
- Media/public relations, including serving as spokesperson and main point of contact for all media inquiries.
- Developing and implementing communication strategies across multiple platforms, including print, web, and social media.
- Demonstrated success managing projects, meeting deadlines, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Using visual design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva), social media tools, web content management systems (Drupal) and data analytics.
- I do not have experience with any of these, but I am willing to learn.
04
Please explain how you gained the experience in each of the areas you selected in question #3. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
05
Do you have six years of professional writing and editing storytelling, crafting executive-level speeches, talking points, publications, reports, web and digital media content?
- Yes
- No
06
Please explain how you gained the experience in question #5. If this does not apply, use "N/A"
07
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status or F1 OPT etc.)?
- Yes
- No
08
How did you learn about this WaTech opportunity? Select all that apply.
- Business Resource Group (BRG)
- Careers.wa.gov
- Governmentjobs.com
- Public job sites (e.g., Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, Monster, etc.)
- Job Fair
- WaTech employee
- WaTech website
- WorkSource
- Other
Required Question