Director of Communications

Oahu Island, HI
Posted on  

Job Description

Recruitment Information

This posting is for the State of Hawaii, State Senate, Office of Communications.

The position is located on the Island of Oahu.

Salary: $6,700.00 - $8,000.00 per month

If you have any questions regarding this non-civil service exempt position, please
contact Carol Taniguchi at (808) 586-6656 (Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (HST).

The State Recruiting Office will refer all inquiries regarding this exempt position to the Hawaii State Senate Clerk's Office.

Duties Summary



The Director of Communications serves a critical role within the Hawai'i State Senate and is responsible for helping develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy. This position requires a strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills and a deep understanding of the legislative process. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of success in media relations, message development, and public outreach.


The Hawai‘i State Senate Communications Department is responsible for:

  • Assisting the Senate and its members to communicate its priorities, programs, and accomplishments to the citizens of the State.
  • Working with the media to facilitate communication with constituents about the Senate's actions, policies, positions, and initiatives.
  • Drafting speeches, talking points, and presentations.
  • Maintaining online media presence.
  • Developing materials to promote the Senate and its priorities and programs.
  • Coordinates media interviews for Senate Leadership designated events.


The Director of Communications oversees the communications staff, which informs the public and enhances citizen awareness and understanding of the Senate's actions, policies, positions, and initiatives.


Major Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develops public information strategies and programs to communicate the Senate's priorities and initiatives.
  • Provides counsel regarding media relations to the members of the Senate

- Provides the Senate with advice about and helps develop accurate, clear and timely messages. - Provides necessary organization, supervisory leadership and motivation to manage the communications staff.

- Writes speeches, talking points, press releases, and presentations for the members of the Senate. - Edits communication pieces produced by the Senate.

  • Monitors news coverage of the Senate and issues affecting the State.
  • Serves as staff at various events and official functions, particularly those involving media coverage.
  • Executes special projects as assigned by the Senate Leadership.
  • Provides weekly updates to Senate Vice President office.
  • Performs other duties and projects as assigned by the Senate Vice President.


Recommended Qualifications:


  • Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of Senate policies, legislative procedure, state government operations, elected officials and key persons in the media. Knowledge of marketing, public relations, issues management and crisis management.


  • Skills/Abilities: Must possess excellent oral and written command of the English language, excellent organizational skills, and ability to work well with a wide variety of personalities. Ability to work in fast paced environment and able to "think on your feet" to optimize opportunities for the Senate with the media.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

4-year college degree or higher.

Experience in public relations, political communications, journalism, social media, marketing and crisis management.


Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as legislative deadlines may demand. Must reside on the Island of Oahu or be willing to relocate.


Medical, dental, and vision benefits; paid time off; and a retirement plan are available.


The Hawai'i State Senate is an equal-opportunity employer.


LEGAL AUTHORIZATION TO WORK REQUIREMENT: The State of Hawaii requires all persons seeking employment with the government of the State shall be citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens of the United States, or eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment in the United States.

Other Information

This position is exempt from the civil service and considered temporary in nature. Therefore, if you are appointed to the position, your employment will be considered to be "at will," which means that you may be discharged from your employment at the prerogative of your department head or designee at any time.

Submit resumes to:
c.taniguchi@capitol.hawaii.gov

Office of the Senate Clerk
Hawaii State Senate
Room 010
415 S. Beretania Street
Honolulu, HI 96813

Direct all inquiries regarding this position to:
Carol Taniguchi, 808-586-6656 (Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (HST).

NOTE: The State Recruiting Office will refer you to the Hawaii, State Senate, Clerk's Office regarding this exempt position.

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