Title:  Senior Mental Health Communication Officer

Overview

The Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) resides under the Agency of Human Services (AHS) and has the same critical mission in mind: to improve the conditions and well-being of Vermonters and protect those who cannot protect themselves. The individuals and families that the Department of Mental Health (DMH) supports in Vermont's communities want the same things we all want; safe homes, close friends, loving relationships, good health, and something meaningful to do each day. Our job is to help them succeed.
 
The team at DMH is always striving to maintain the current level of services available in the system of care for Vermonters while continuing to seek opportunities that expand access to mental health services. The goal is to improve the consumer experience by increasing availability, reducing wait times, and reducing barriers to allow Vermonters and their families to receive the most appropriate care when and where they need it. 
 
Do your values align with our mission and vision? Do you enjoy writing? Do you thrive in a bustling environment and work well under pressure to meet deadlines? DMH is seeking a Communications Director with exceptional public speaking and writing skills. This person is expected to be a strategic thinker, who can proactively direct a communications plan to increase awareness and understanding of the programs and services in Vermont's mental health system of care. You will build relationships with the media, legislators, state leadership, community partners, and Vermont citizens.   You do not need to be a subject matter expert for mental health services to be effective in this role, however, you do need to be an effective facilitator with a knack for consensus-building while providing clear communication both verbally and in writing.

The work accomplished by this position is directly linked to the Department of Mental Health's mission to promote mental health as a vital part of overall well-being by advancing prevention, early intervention, and recovery-focused care. Our vision is that mental health is a cornerstone of health in Vermont. Vermonters live in caring, inclusive communities that respond with compassion and respect to mental health needs, ensuring everyone can thrive and participate fully in their lives. The work done toward our vision and mission uses the values of compassion, equity, integrity, collaboration, and accountability. Please review the Department's Vision, Mission, and Values at About Us | Department of Mental Health.

Who May Apply

This position, Senior Mental Health Communication Officer (Job Requisition #53498), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact emily.hawes@vermont.gov
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail.  You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS:  Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position.  In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Duties are performed in office, field and remote settings. Some work outside of normal office hours may be required. Stress will be encountered due to tight deadlines, conflicting opinions, and the result of policy and public communication decisions, especially during public health events and emergencies. The incumbent must be skilled at conflict management and integrating various conflicting viewpoints.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in public administration, journalism, communication, marketing, public relations or a closely related field AND one (1) year of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Bachelor’s degree in public policy, journalism, communication, marketing, public relations or a closely related field AND two (2) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Bachelor’s degree AND three (3) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

OR

Five (5) years of experience in journalism, marketing, advertising, communication, public relations or a closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supervising staff
• Experience working in or with the health system.
• Familiarity with and Agency of Human Services communication protocols.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
• Low cost group life insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.