Director of Communications - Office of Senator Fernandes

Job Summary

The Director of Communications helps develop and manage the communications and public relations strategies for a Senator’s office, including social media content development. In collaboration with, and at the direction of the Senator and Chief of Staff, the Director of Communications executes a broad range of communications tasks that support the Senator’s policy and district priorities. Utilizing a network of media contacts and a variety of communications strategies, platforms and skills, the Director of Communications plays a key role in the success of a Senator’s office operations.

The Director of Communications reports to the Chief of Staff.

• Develop, in consultation with the Senator and Chief of Staff, a comprehensive media strategy for the Senator, including production of social media content.
• Screen incoming media requests and make recommendations to Chief of Staff and Senator.
• Draft, edit, and disseminate press releases on the Senator’s legislative, budget, and local priorities.
• Draft and edit quotes, op‑eds, letters to the editor, speeches, talking points, remarks, and newsletters.
• Maintain accurate media contacts lists and establish strong working relationships with members of the media.
• Collect and maintain photo and video archives.
• Research and pitch stories and respond to media inquiries from local and national print, digital, radio, and television outlets.
• Coordinate media availabilities, press conferences, and interviews.
• Monitor news outlets, including local, statewide, and national news coverage.
• Organize and promote media events both at the State House and in the district.
• Manage the Senator’s official social media accounts.
• Maintain the Senator’s official website.

• Serve as media spokesperson for the Senator and the office.
• Research legislation and budget issues.
• Provide constituent services and case work on district issues.
• Attend events with the Senator or on their behalf.
• Assist with general administrative duties: answering phones, ordering supplies, sorting mail.
• Support other staff in messaging and drafting written materials in their assigned policy areas.
• Draft responses to legislative‑related inquiries from constituents, organizations, legislators, and other stakeholders.
• Supervise office intern.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 1 year of relevant work experience, or any of the following combinations of education and experience:
  • Associate’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience;
  • Graduate degree or higher in a related field; or
  • At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Basic understanding of state government operations and the legislative process.
• Demonstrated experience and competence working with social media platforms and computerized office applications.
• Basic understanding of print, broadcast, digital, and online media.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.
• Ability to think critically and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule including working extended hours, possibly on nights and weekends.

• 75% state‑paid medical insurance premium
• Reasonable dental and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts and dependent care assistance programs
• Low‑cost basic and optional life insurance – Retirement savings:
  State Employees’ Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
• 12 paid holidays per year and competitive sick, vacation, and personal time
• Competitive Senate‑sponsored parental leave – Tuition benefit for employees and spouses at state colleges and universities
• Long‑term disability and extended illness program participation options
• Employee assistance programs – professional development and…