At the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), we are working to rethink what’s possible through strategic communication. Going beyond public information checklists and playbooks of the past, we strive to make a difference through connecting with people and telling the stories that may often get overlooked or lost in the details. We need a passionate and experienced communications professional who’s willing to roll up their sleeves, put pen to paper, and help us make this happen.
This is your chance to drive cutting-edge communications on a state, national, and global stage. The CNRA Communications Officer role is ideal for someone who thrives on action, embraces innovation and new ways of doing things, and has a clear vision of where the communications field is headed—and isn’t afraid to lead the way. We’re looking for someone who is endlessly curious, continuously learning, and unafraid to dive in, push the boundaries, and craft compelling narratives across various channels, including traditional media, digital media, live events, and face-to-face engagement.
As CNRA’s Communications Officer, you’ll work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment under the guidance of the Deputy Secretary for Communications. Collaborating closely with the Assistant Deputy Secretary for Communications and the broader communications team, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Natural Resources Secretary and the CNRA Executive Team by:
- Leading media relations through managing 1-2 critical issue areas, providing guidance for department operations, and supporting speaking engagements and press events. Exceptional writing skills, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal abilities are essential for building strong relationships and handling high-pressure situations.
- Driving social media and content creation by taking charge of CNRA’s digital communication channels, developing and maintaining a weekly content calendar, and spotting opportunities to tell agency stories in meaningful ways. This includes knowing the latest trends and news, understanding how to leverage this, creating engaging social media content that breaks through the noise, shooting and editing short-form videos, and translating complex government information into something compelling that someone wants to read or be aware of.
- Coordinating high-profile events through partnering with internal teams, leadership, and external stakeholders to plan and execute agency events, digital webinars, and other special event programs. Serve as a representative of the Secretary’s Office and a high-level liaison with the Governor’s Office and department leaders.
While this position serves under a matrix reporting structure and will regularly work with leaders across all levels of government and the Governor’s Office, the Communications Officer is responsible for prioritizing and organizing workflow, independently driving strategy, spotting opportunities, and delivering content and projects from idea to implementation.
Minimum Qualifications (MQs): The MQs for this classification can be found at Information Officer II (5595) - CalHR. The documents you submit in your application package must highlight how you meet the MQs. If the MQs are not met, you will not be considered for this position.
Hybrid and Telework Employees: Teleworking is only available for employees who reside in California. You must be relocated to California and provide your in-state address prior to your start date.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.