Communications & Outreach Coordinator (CC4)

Communications & Outreach Coordinator (CC4)

Salary

$64,512.00 - $86,688.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26WSTC-HQ-1819e

Department

Washington State Transportation Commission

Opening Date

11/05/2026

Closing Date

11/23/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About the Transportation Commission

The Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) is a seven-member body of citizens appointed by the Governor for six-year terms. In addition, the WSDOT Secretary and a representative from the Governor's Office serve as ex officio members. The WSTC provides an open public forum for transportation policy development, holding monthly meetings in Olympia and around the state. As the State Tolling Authority, the WSTC adopts state highway tolls and sets ferry fares. It reviews and assesses how the entire transportation system works across the state, issues the state's 20-year statewide transportation plan, and conducts special studies and projects as directed by the Legislature.

The Opportunity

The WSTC is seeking an experienced professional to serve as the Communications & Outreach Coordinator, located in Olympia, WA. The Communications & Outreach Coordinator will develop and implement engaging communications across multiple platforms that highlight the unique role the WSTC serves in statewide transportation policy development, education and engagement, as well as its work in ferry-fare and toll-rate setting.

The Communications & Outreach Coordinator will also support the strategic development, creative design, and management of digital and print communications, and develop content for the WSTC's website and social media platforms. This position will support the organization's engagement with the State Legislature, local elected officials, the general public, and the media, and help establish and promote strong working relationships with external groups and organizations.

The ideal candidate will have strong written and oral communication skills, excellent interpersonal skills, a desire for understanding how things connect and interrelate, and possess a passion for collaboration, relationship-building, and public outreach.

What to Expect

The Washington State Transportation Commission is committed to employee development and has an open-door culture where you will have the opportunity to work directly with Commissioners and staff at all levels, along with leaders in external agencies and organizations. The WSTC actively promotes opportunities for expanding and growing your skills and responsibilities and provides opportunities for growth and promotion within the organization.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Communications & Outreach Coordinator will:

• Manage the Commission's general communications, outreach efforts, and public engagement efforts.
• Write press releases publicizing monthly WSTC meetings, ferry-fare and toll-rate setting activities, and other initiatives.
• Manage and produce content for the WSTC's social media channels using Canva and other digital tools.
• Manage virtual and hybrid WSTC monthly meetings using Zoom, and collaborate to implement WSTC meeting operations and logistics
• Develop content for the WSTC website.
• Engage with stakeholders, managing the public email inbox, including responses.
• Respond to media requests and facilitate interviews with agency subject matter experts
• Carry out continual outreach and engagement efforts and relationship building with partner agencies, regional and local jurisdictions, trade and modal associations, legislative partners, etc.
• Conduct public outreach and education efforts statewide on WSTC initiatives.
• Coordinate and support WSTC legislative activities.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Communication: Advanced skills and experience in written and verbal communication, including conveying complex policy and technical information clearly and concisely, applying plain language principles, and tailoring messages to diverse audiences.
• Public Engagement & Relationship Building: Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders, partner agencies, legislators, and members of the public, using inclusive and culturally responsive engagement practices.
• Project & Meeting Coordination: Extensive experience in organizing and prioritizing multiple assignments, managing competing deadlines, coordinating logistics, and maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Technology & Information Management: Proficiency in digital communication platforms, website content management systems, social media content creation and management tools, virtual meeting tools and equipment, and standard office applications; knowledge of electronic records management and established retention procedures.
• Critical Thinking, Collaboration, & Accountability: Demonstrated skill in analyzing information, exercising sound judgment, solving problems, adapting to changing priorities, and collaborating effectively while maintaining professionalism, discretion, and accountability.
• Legislative & Policy Knowledge: Knowledge of public-sector processes and legislative and policy information, including interpreting and summarizing complex information accurately and communicating it effectively.
• Evaluation & Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated skill in evaluating communication and engagement effectiveness using feedback, performance metrics, and available data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Teamwork & Independence: Demonstrated effectiveness working collaboratively as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, including relationship-building, collaboration, and effective engagement with diverse audiences.
• Social Media Proficiency: Proficiency in social media platforms, content development, audience engagement, and digital communication strategies.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSTC does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSTC

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual's lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Growth Opportunity - WSTC actively supports professional growth and development and encourages employees to seek opportunities to enhance their skill sets, incentivizing the growth of responsibilities within the organization.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSTC offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

How to Apply

This recruitment is being managed by the WSDOT, on behalf of the WSTC. Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

The Transportation Commission is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

WSTC does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26WSTC-HQ-1819e in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Please describe your most recent role and experience developing communications, outreach, or public engagement strategies, including the audience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Communications, Outreach & Public Engagement: Please select the statement that best describes your experience developing and implementing communications, outreach, and public engagement strategies.

• Extensive experience independently developing and implementing comprehensive communications, outreach, and public engagement strategies; translating organizational policies, goals, and complex information into audience-appropriate messaging and communication products.
• Considerable experience developing and implementing communications or outreach strategies and adapting messaging and materials for different audiences.
• Experience developing communications or outreach materials and communicating organizational information to internal or external audiences.
• Limited or no experience supporting communications or outreach activities using established strategies or direction.

03

Media, Digital & Social Media Communications: Please select the statement that best describes your experience managing media, website, social media, or other digital communications.

• Extensive experience independently managing multiple communication channels, including developing content and strategies, coordinating media communications, managing social media calendars and online communities, developing website content, monitoring analytics, and evaluating communication effectiveness.
• Considerable experience developing and managing content for social media, websites, or other digital communication channels and monitoring audience engagement or performance.
• Experience creating or maintaining content for social media, websites, newsletters, or other digital communication channels.
• Limited or no experience supporting digital communications or content development.

04

Please describe your experience managing social media, websites, or other digital communications, including the platforms used and types of content developed. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

05

Public Outreach & Stakeholder Engagement: Please select the statement that best describes your experience conducting public outreach, education, stakeholder engagement, and relationship-building activities.

• Extensive experience independently planning and conducting statewide, regional, or community-based outreach and engagement activities; building sustained relationships with diverse stakeholders, partner agencies, jurisdictions, associations, legislative partners, and members of the public.
• Considerable experience planning and conducting outreach and engagement activities and maintaining effective relationships with diverse external partners and stakeholders.
• Experience participating in public outreach, education, stakeholder engagement, or relationship-building activities.
• Limited or no experience supporting outreach or engagement activities.

06

Please describe your most recent experience conducting public outreach or engagement and building relationships with external stakeholders. Include the types of stakeholders involved. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

07

Meeting Logistics Coordination: Please select the statement that best describes your experience supporting the coordination of virtual and in-person events and meetings.

• Extensive experience independently coordinating the logistics for in-person and virtual meetings, including running Zoom, coordinating with on-site meeting and technology personnel, communicating with speakers and participants, and ensuring meetings are successfully executed.
• Considerable experience coordinating the logistics for in-person and virtual meetings, including running Zoom, coordination with on-site personnel, and communicating with speakers.
• Experience coordinating meeting logistics, including running meeting technology and coordinating with meeting personnel and speakers.
• Limited or no experience with in-person and/or virtual meeting coordination.

08

Please describe your experience coordinating virtual and in-person events and meetings. Include the type and frequency of meetings coordinated. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

09

Publications & Reports: Please select the statement that best describes your experience developing, editing, reviewing, or coordinating publications, reports, or other formal communication products.

• Extensive experience independently developing, editing, and reviewing complex publications and reports for accuracy, grammar, style, plain language, consistency, and audience appropriateness.
• Considerable experience editing and reviewing reports, publications, or other formal communications for accuracy, readability, grammar, and consistency.
• Experience preparing, editing, or proofreading written reports, publications, or communication materials.
• Limited or no experience reviewing or editing written materials.

10

Please describe your experience developing, editing, or reviewing reports, publications, or other formal communication products. Include the types of documents and intended audiences. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

11

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

12

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov