King County, WA
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Communications Specialist III
role at
King County, WA 3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Join to apply for the
Communications Specialist III
role at
King County, WA Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Summary
Come make a difference and join team Metro! Summary
Come make a difference and join team Metro!
King County Metro Transit’s Internal Communications and Employee Engagement team is seeking an experienced
Communications Specialist III
to produce communications plans, strategies, and products in support of the Safety, Security, and Quality Assurance Division and General Manager’s Office. This role will research, design, write, edit, and coordinate employee communications, such as Metro-wide messages from senior leadership, and facilitate inclusive employee engagement opportunities to co-create, share information, and improve two-way communications with individual contributors and management.
Candidates will bring experience in written communications (i.e. talking points, employee messages, newsletters) and in planning and facilitating employee engagement (i.e. designing surveys, overseeing focus groups, tabling at events). They will engage our workforce with stories and resources that support Metro’s efforts to build a proactive safety culture and strengthen system-wide security. Candidates for this role will have the ability to manage multiple and shifting priorities, be action-oriented, build strong relationships and partnerships, and work under pressure.
Position Info:
This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) Special Duty Assignment/Term Limited Temporary vacancy that is expected to last 18 months with the possibility of extension. This recruitment may be used to generate a list for future Term Limited Temporary (TLT), and Special Duty Assignment (SDA) positions that may occur in this classification (Communications Specialist III). The eligibility pool list is valid for up to 12 months from time of posting for use at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Job Duties
Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of this work. The successful candidate will be skilled at working with directors and other leaders, as well as passionate about representing the voices and interests of employees.
As a Communications Specialist III, You Will
Research, plan, write, edit and design various documents in draft and final form, including reports, newsletters, factsheets, slide presentations, talking points, education materials, website content, and other materials. Help develop graphics as needed. Formulate communications plans, strategies, and products in support of the Safety, Security, and Quality Assurance Division and General Manager's Office. Manage publishing and distribution channels to provide information to a large, diverse workforce in an effective, efficient, and timely manner. Use listening, facilitation, and conflict management skills to both receive and deliver the creative ideas of employees to the forefront. Prepare reports, slideshows, and other communications products summarizing findings and recommendations to present to stakeholders. Work with leaders, internal customers and/or key stakeholders to assess communications and employee engagement needs, target audience, and objectives; design special activities to meet those needs. Facilitate individual contributors and people leaders in one-on-one conversations, small and large group settings, and through various participatory methods (i.e. surveys, focus groups, tabling at events) to provide meaningful feedback to decision-makers and ensure the diverse voices of King County and Metro's marginalized populations are heard. Collaborate and follow all Metro communication protocols and review processes for development and distribution of communications materials to all stakeholders. Perform other duties as assigned.
Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
We are looking for candidates who have:
A minimum of three (3) years of experience in positions dedicated to communications and employee engagement OR any combination of experience/education/training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work. Excellent written and oral communications skills, including the effective use of visuals in communications. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse individuals with varying opinions and backgrounds. Strong organizational and project management skills. Experience working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Proficiency in commonly used communication and productivity tools to create and manage written content, presentations, graphics, database operations, spreadsheets and surveys, and to collaborate effectively across teams.
Highly Competitive Candidates Will Have (desired, But Not Required)
Knowledge of transit operations and optimization. Experience producing videos and writing scripts. Experience with SharePoint and SharePoint site administration. Proficient in a non-English language.
Supplemental Information
Who may apply: This recruitment is only open to King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
The Following Application Materials Are Required
An online King County application updated with accurate contact information and relevant work history. Resume Completed supplemental questions. A letter of interest (cover letter) that addresses why you are interested in this role and how your experience, skills and/or education have prepared you for this position.
Selection Process
Applications without the above required materials will not be considered. Application materials will be screened for competitiveness, completeness, and written communication skills. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews and possibly other selection process elements. Final offers are contingent on successful completion of reference checks and/or a record review.
If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application/assessment process, or have questions, please contact: Sabrina Brazzle atsbrazzle@kingcounty.gov.
Other Position Information
Work Location: This is a hybrid position. The main work site for this position is King Street Center, 201 S Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104.
The work associated with this position is currently performed or conducted through a combination of teleworking, onsite work, and meetings. The role combines remote work from home with onsite reporting typically once to twice per week. Reporting frequency may vary based on business needs.
Employees will have access to shared workspaces at various King County facilities. Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
Work Schedule: The position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not overtime eligible/ This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible. The typical workweek is 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday.
Union Representation: The position is not represented by a union
Class Code: 2501300 Communications Specialist III
Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference?
Come join the team
dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles - we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
Benefits
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
For additional information about employee benefits, visit our Benefits, Payroll, and Retirement Page.
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE:
Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
01
Are you applying to this position as an eligible current or previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant? AND Is this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff? AND Do you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?
Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my Career Service role at King County and I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. Additionally, the position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one. No.
02
If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided: 1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice 2. The department you worked in 3. The effective date of your layoff
03
Do you have any relatives employed by King County that work for King County's METRO Transit Department?
YES NO
04
If you answered "yes" to the previous question, please provide the Division of King County Metro that they currently work in. Select all that apply.
a. Bus Operations Division b. Capital Division c. Employee Services Division d. Facilities Division e. Finance & Administration Division f. General Manager's Office g. Marine Division h. Mobility Division i. Rail Division (including Streetcar) j. Safety, Security & Quality Assurance k. Vehicle Maintenance l. I do not know which Division my relative works in at Metro Transit m. I do not have a relative that works for King County Metro
05
How many years of experience do you have in a position dedicated to communications and employee engagement?
None, my experience does not align with the statement above. My application describes my relevant experience. Less than 1 year 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years More than 4 years
06
Which of the following desired qualifications do you possess? (select all that apply)
Knowledge of transit operations and optimization. Experience producing videos and writing scripts. Experience with SharePoint and SharePoint site administration. Proficient in a non-English language. None of the above Required Question
Seniority level
Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
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Communications Specialist III
role at
King County, WA 3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Join to apply for the
Communications Specialist III
role at
King County, WA Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Summary
Come make a difference and join team Metro! Summary
Come make a difference and join team Metro!
King County Metro Transit’s Internal Communications and Employee Engagement team is seeking an experienced
Communications Specialist III
to produce communications plans, strategies, and products in support of the Safety, Security, and Quality Assurance Division and General Manager’s Office. This role will research, design, write, edit, and coordinate employee communications, such as Metro-wide messages from senior leadership, and facilitate inclusive employee engagement opportunities to co-create, share information, and improve two-way communications with individual contributors and management.
Candidates will bring experience in written communications (i.e. talking points, employee messages, newsletters) and in planning and facilitating employee engagement (i.e. designing surveys, overseeing focus groups, tabling at events). They will engage our workforce with stories and resources that support Metro’s efforts to build a proactive safety culture and strengthen system-wide security. Candidates for this role will have the ability to manage multiple and shifting priorities, be action-oriented, build strong relationships and partnerships, and work under pressure.
Position Info:
This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) Special Duty Assignment/Term Limited Temporary vacancy that is expected to last 18 months with the possibility of extension. This recruitment may be used to generate a list for future Term Limited Temporary (TLT), and Special Duty Assignment (SDA) positions that may occur in this classification (Communications Specialist III). The eligibility pool list is valid for up to 12 months from time of posting for use at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Job Duties
Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of this work. The successful candidate will be skilled at working with directors and other leaders, as well as passionate about representing the voices and interests of employees.
As a Communications Specialist III, You Will
Research, plan, write, edit and design various documents in draft and final form, including reports, newsletters, factsheets, slide presentations, talking points, education materials, website content, and other materials. Help develop graphics as needed. Formulate communications plans, strategies, and products in support of the Safety, Security, and Quality Assurance Division and General Manager's Office. Manage publishing and distribution channels to provide information to a large, diverse workforce in an effective, efficient, and timely manner. Use listening, facilitation, and conflict management skills to both receive and deliver the creative ideas of employees to the forefront. Prepare reports, slideshows, and other communications products summarizing findings and recommendations to present to stakeholders. Work with leaders, internal customers and/or key stakeholders to assess communications and employee engagement needs, target audience, and objectives; design special activities to meet those needs. Facilitate individual contributors and people leaders in one-on-one conversations, small and large group settings, and through various participatory methods (i.e. surveys, focus groups, tabling at events) to provide meaningful feedback to decision-makers and ensure the diverse voices of King County and Metro's marginalized populations are heard. Collaborate and follow all Metro communication protocols and review processes for development and distribution of communications materials to all stakeholders. Perform other duties as assigned.
Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
We are looking for candidates who have:
A minimum of three (3) years of experience in positions dedicated to communications and employee engagement OR any combination of experience/education/training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work. Excellent written and oral communications skills, including the effective use of visuals in communications. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse individuals with varying opinions and backgrounds. Strong organizational and project management skills. Experience working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Proficiency in commonly used communication and productivity tools to create and manage written content, presentations, graphics, database operations, spreadsheets and surveys, and to collaborate effectively across teams.
Highly Competitive Candidates Will Have (desired, But Not Required)
Knowledge of transit operations and optimization. Experience producing videos and writing scripts. Experience with SharePoint and SharePoint site administration. Proficient in a non-English language.
Supplemental Information
Who may apply: This recruitment is only open to King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
The Following Application Materials Are Required
An online King County application updated with accurate contact information and relevant work history. Resume Completed supplemental questions. A letter of interest (cover letter) that addresses why you are interested in this role and how your experience, skills and/or education have prepared you for this position.
Selection Process
Applications without the above required materials will not be considered. Application materials will be screened for competitiveness, completeness, and written communication skills. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews and possibly other selection process elements. Final offers are contingent on successful completion of reference checks and/or a record review.
If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application/assessment process, or have questions, please contact: Sabrina Brazzle atsbrazzle@kingcounty.gov.
Other Position Information
Work Location: This is a hybrid position. The main work site for this position is King Street Center, 201 S Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104.
The work associated with this position is currently performed or conducted through a combination of teleworking, onsite work, and meetings. The role combines remote work from home with onsite reporting typically once to twice per week. Reporting frequency may vary based on business needs.
Employees will have access to shared workspaces at various King County facilities. Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
Work Schedule: The position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not overtime eligible/ This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible. The typical workweek is 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday.
Union Representation: The position is not represented by a union
Class Code: 2501300 Communications Specialist III
Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference?
Come join the team
dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles - we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
Benefits
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs
For additional information about employee benefits, visit our Benefits, Payroll, and Retirement Page.
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE:
Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
01
Are you applying to this position as an eligible current or previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant? AND Is this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff? AND Do you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?
Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my Career Service role at King County and I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. Additionally, the position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one. No.
02
If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided: 1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice 2. The department you worked in 3. The effective date of your layoff
03
Do you have any relatives employed by King County that work for King County's METRO Transit Department?
YES NO
04
If you answered "yes" to the previous question, please provide the Division of King County Metro that they currently work in. Select all that apply.
a. Bus Operations Division b. Capital Division c. Employee Services Division d. Facilities Division e. Finance & Administration Division f. General Manager's Office g. Marine Division h. Mobility Division i. Rail Division (including Streetcar) j. Safety, Security & Quality Assurance k. Vehicle Maintenance l. I do not know which Division my relative works in at Metro Transit m. I do not have a relative that works for King County Metro
05
How many years of experience do you have in a position dedicated to communications and employee engagement?
None, my experience does not align with the statement above. My application describes my relevant experience. Less than 1 year 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years More than 4 years
06
Which of the following desired qualifications do you possess? (select all that apply)
Knowledge of transit operations and optimization. Experience producing videos and writing scripts. Experience with SharePoint and SharePoint site administration. Proficient in a non-English language. None of the above Required Question
Seniority level
Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing Industries Government Administration Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at King County, WA by 2x Get notified about new Communications Specialist jobs in
Seattle, WA . Internal and Executive Communications Manager, Google Cloud
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Bellevue, WA $99,041.00-$170,408.00 2 weeks ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr