Overview

Texas Water Development Boards Mission - Leading the states efforts in ensuring a secure water future for Texas. The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) offers competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, and flexible work alternatives so you can have a work/life balance! For more information about these benefits and more visit our employment benefits page. The Texas Water Development Board does not discriminate on basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, or disability in employment or provision of services, programs, or activities. To be considered for this position, the applicant MUST submit (1) one press release sample written by the applicant and (2) two writing samples of the applicant's choice, such as a published article or media pitch. Samples should demonstrate the scope of writing abilities. Must meet agency in-office requirements Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Texas Water Development Board is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented communicator who will be dedicated to sharing the stories of our state's most important resource: water. Performs advanced (senior-level) informational and communication work. Work involves coordinating and executing research, writing, editing, and distribution of information and materials for release to news media and for use by the agency, the public, and other agencies. Serves as a primary agency liaison with media. May train others. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the Chief Communications Officer of the Agency Communications Division. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Serves as a primary agency liaison with media and coordinates media interviews. Researches and identifies story ideas, angles, and relevant media to proactively pitch. Writes and distributes press releases, media advisories, and email blasts. Develops talking points and media interview materials. Advises senior management and staff on news issues. Coordinates and conducts staff media training. Develops and executes media plans for meetings, conferences, and agency initiatives. Coordinates and executes press conferences. Builds and maintains relationships with media. Manages agency media lists. Compiles daily news clips and distributes to TWDB staff. Writes and edits other agency materials as needed, including articles for the Texas Water Newsroom. Develops, coordinates, and distributes internal and external newsletters and manages stakeholder distribution. Develops, posts, and manages some website content. Ensures individual and team files (electronic and hard versions) are appropriately maintained and timely disposed of in accordance with the agency's records retention procedures and schedule. Maintains required certifications and licenses and meets the continuing education needs and requirements of the position to include, attending mandatory training courses. May be required to operate a state or personal vehicle for business purposes. Performs other duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, English, or a related field. Seven years of relevant work experience in media relations. Experience writing press releases, articles, and other materials. Writing samples required upon applying for this position. Relevant education and experience can be substituted for each other on a year-for-year basis. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS More than seven years of experience in media relations. Experience pitching story ideas to the media. Experience coordinating and conducting media training. Certification from an accredited professional organization, such as the Public Relations Society of America. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs) Knowledge of local, state, and federal l