External Affairs Coordinator

POSSIBLE HYBRID WORKPLACE OPPORTUNITY

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the State’s affordable housing agency, with a mission to build, preserve, and protect affordable housing and increase home ownership throughout New York State.

This position is on HCR's Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC). HTFC is a public benefit corporation, and a Civil Service exam is not required for this position. Candidates must meet the minimum qualifications outlined below to be considered.

NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. HCR is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. HCR embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.

JOB SUMMARY:

The External Affairs Coordinator works within the Public Information Office and reports directly to the Director of External Affairs.

Responsibilities:

• Writes and edits external communications materials such as press releases, articles, op-eds, and a wide range of digital content, including social media.
• Creates and distributes a variety of internal and external communications, including marketing materials and the agency’s newsletter.
• Drafts briefings, talking points, speeches, and additional executive materials for the Commissioner and senior staff.
• Generates ideas and strategies for press announcements, social media campaigns, and other digital communication initiatives.
• Assists with maintaining the department's media contacts and external email distribution lists.
• Pitches press releases, articles, and announcements to the media.
• Coordinates participation in approved public events, which may include agency-sponsored groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings; and events planned by other state agencies, outside organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Supports the Community Relations Unit and represents the agency at public events, conferences, and meetings across New York State.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree*
• Two or more years of experience in government communications or public relations.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities, and a talent for conveying complex and technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Demonstrated mastery of digital communication skills, and experience in applying those skills in the real world.
• Ability to multi-task and efficiently manage several projects simultaneously under tight deadlines and with great attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• A can-do attitude, reliable work ethic, and enthusiasm for learning on the job.
• Demonstrated proficiency with all Microsoft Office tools; and familiarity working with Web Ex, Zoom, and similar digital platforms and tools related to remote communications.

* Substitutions: four years of specialized experience or associate degree and two years of specialized experience may substitute for bachelor’s degree; J.D. or master’s degree may substitute for one year of specialized experience;
Ph.D. may substitute for two years of specialized experience.

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive and employee will be expected to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned.

This position requires travel within New York State to attend conferences and public events.

APPLICANTS MUST INCLUDE RESUME AND COVER LETTER

WHAT WE OFFER AT NYS HCR:

• Extensive benefits package including paid leave, including excellent health, dental, vision and retirement benefits with the New York State & Local Employees’ Retirement System.
• Promotional opportunity for dedicated professionals
• Work life balance benefits including a 37.5 hour work week and paid time off benefits including, vacation, sick, personal days, and Federal Holidays
• Opportunity for compressed scheduling
• 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Family Leave
• As a New York State employee, you may qualify to participate in the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness…