Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division
Apply NowCompany: State of California
Location: Sacramento, CA 95823
Description:
Join the Heart of Healthcare Evolution: Become Our Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division
Are you a visionary leader in the world of public relations and communications, passionate about making a tangible impact on public health? Covered California is seeking a dynamic and seasoned professional to step into the role of Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division. This pivotal position offers the chance to lead and shape the narrative of healthcare access in California, ensuring our message resonates with the state's diverse communities.
What You'll Do : As the Deputy Director, you'll be the strategic force behind our Media & Integrated Communications and Website Design & User Experience branches. Your role will encompass:
This position is located in Sacramento County.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Minimum Requirements This position does not have a Classification Specification. Requirements and qualifications for this position can be found in this announcement. For additional questions, please contact the hiring department listed below.
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-463929
Position #(s):
801-350-9907-906
Working Title:
Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division
Classification:
Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations $10,000.00 - $15,000.00
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Non-Tenured, Full Time
Department Information
Covered California works to improve the health of all Californians by assuring their access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Our employees are the vital link that ensures that our vision, mission, and values are fully realized and are the driving force that allows us to continually provide exceptional service to those who need it most.
We offer an award-winning wellness program, inclusive and diverse atmosphere, employee recognition programs, on site fitness centers at our Sacramento and Service Center locations, and free parking at all of our locations!
Life can change in an instant - so can your career!
Visit our website to learn more about why Covered California is an employer of choice.
Special Requirements
Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Instructions : A SOQ is required to apply. The SOQ will be used as a pre-interview screening tool. Applicants who do not follow the SOQ instructions and/or do not answer the prompt as stated below may not be considered.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be useful in the development of written responses; however, it is important to use these tools responsibly and ethically. Where assistive tools may be used, responses within the SOQ should be your own original work. Applicants must write in their own words and avoid plagiarism. Failure to comply may be cause for disqualification.
The SOQ must specifically address the desirable qualifications listed below. When responding to these items, applicants must follow these guidelines:
For each of the statements below, please address each desirable qualification and provide specific examples and an overview of your experience in the relevant areas:
Please explain how your professional experience, accomplishments, and education have successfully prepared you for the Deputy Director role with Covered California. Share your experience developing consumer-driven, integrated communications strategies, and provide an example of a campaign you built and executed. What was the result or outcome? Please describe your leadership style, and approach to team professional development, and team culture. Provide a specific example of how your leadership style successfully lead a team through a time of transition, adversity or change.
If you have any questions regarding the SOQ requirement, we encourage you to reach out to the recruiter directly: Abby DaSilva, Executive Recruitment Specialist, at (916) 954-3280 or through email at abby.dasilva@covered.ca.gov .
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 4/12/2025
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the applicable Laws and Rules. Please note on your application your current participation in these programs.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Covered California
Employment & Classification Services
Attn: Human Resources Branch: ERU
1601 Exposition Blvd
Sacramento , CA 95815
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Covered California
Employment & Classification Services
Human Resources Branch: ERU
1601 Exposition Blvd
Sacramento , CA 95815
Monday - Friday
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Benefits
The State of California offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes Health, Vision, Dental, Retirement, and an array of other options. For more information on the benefits offered by the State of California, please click below:
CalHR Benefits Summary
CalHR Salary and Benefits Information
CalPERS Retirement Information
CalPERS Employer Contributions
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Human Resources Contact:
Abby Da Silva
(916) 954-3280
Abby.DaSilva@covered.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
EEO Office
(916) 999-8733
EEO@covered.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Background Check: All applicants shall be subject to a pre-employment background investigation. The investigation will consist of completion of a pre-employment questionnaire, fingerprinting, and an inquiry to the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation to disclose criminal records.
This position is identified as a Conflict of Interest (COI) Form 700 position. Government Code Section 19990 specifies a state officer or employee shall not engage in any employment, activity, or enterprise which is clearly inconsistent, incompatible, in conflict with, or inimical to his or her duties as a state officer or employee. Government Code Section 100500 (f) (1) states, in pertinent part:
"...staff of the Exchange shall not be employed by, a consultant to, a member of the board of directors of, affiliated with, or otherwise a representative of, a carrier or other insurer, and agent or broker, a health care provider, or a health care facility or health clinic while serving on the board or on the staff of the Covered California. A member of the board or of the staff of the Exchange shall not be a member, a board member, or an employee of a trade association of carriers, health facilities, health clinics, or health care providers while serving on the board or on the staff of the Exchange."
Applicants who may fall under Government Code 100500 (f) (1) will be considered ineligible for appointment with the Exchange. Please read the Covered California Incompatible Activities Statement and Policy (CCAM 14-400). Please email any questions or concerns you may have prior to accepting a final offer of employment to Form700@covered.ca.gov.
Additional Application Instructions
Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.
All information regarding your employment history must be included on the State Employment Application STD. 678. Applications that are submitted blank or with "see resume" in place of duties performed or applications received without the following information for each job entry will be considered incomplete and will not be accepted:
Transcripts:
If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcript for verification. If selected, you will be required to provide official transcripts at the time of hire. Foreign transcripts must include official verification of U.S equivalency prior to appointment by an organization found here.
Personally Identifiable Information:
Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any documents in your application package.
If you have additional questions regarding this advertisement or are having issues applying through CalCareers, please contact Abby DaSilva, Executive Recruitment Specialist at (916) 954-3280 or through email at abby.dasilva@covered.ca.gov .
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
Are you a visionary leader in the world of public relations and communications, passionate about making a tangible impact on public health? Covered California is seeking a dynamic and seasoned professional to step into the role of Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division. This pivotal position offers the chance to lead and shape the narrative of healthcare access in California, ensuring our message resonates with the state's diverse communities.
What You'll Do : As the Deputy Director, you'll be the strategic force behind our Media & Integrated Communications and Website Design & User Experience branches. Your role will encompass:
- Defining the strategic direction to enhance our public image and support enrollment efforts.
- Shaping and leading our media relations practice by developing innovative, integrated communications strategies that speak to our diverse audience across all channels and ensuring they are aligned with the evolving media landscape.
- Building effective relationships within and outside the organization, ensuring our communications strategies support Covered California's priorities.
- Serving as a key spokesperson, ready to articulate our mission and impact to the world.
- Spearheading innovative campaigns that elevate our brand and mission awareness at local, state, and national levels.
- Overseeing and refining our consumer-facing web presence to ensure clear, engaging, and accessible messaging along consumer pathways and journeys.
This position is located in Sacramento County.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
- This position may be eligible for telework. In accordance with Government Code section 14200, only employees who reside in California are eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on Covered California's current telework policy. While Covered California supports telework, in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to their worksite with minimal notification if an urgent need arises, as determined by the Department.
- This position is headquartered in Sacramento. Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee's designated headquarters office subject to regulations and bargaining unit contract provisions. Travel expenses associated with commuting to the employee's office headquarters location are not reimbursable, other than authorized transit subsidies.
Minimum Requirements This position does not have a Classification Specification. Requirements and qualifications for this position can be found in this announcement. For additional questions, please contact the hiring department listed below.
- Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-463929
Position #(s):
801-350-9907-906
Working Title:
Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations Division
Classification:
Deputy Director, Communications and Public Relations $10,000.00 - $15,000.00
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Non-Tenured, Full Time
Department Information
Covered California works to improve the health of all Californians by assuring their access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Our employees are the vital link that ensures that our vision, mission, and values are fully realized and are the driving force that allows us to continually provide exceptional service to those who need it most.
We offer an award-winning wellness program, inclusive and diverse atmosphere, employee recognition programs, on site fitness centers at our Sacramento and Service Center locations, and free parking at all of our locations!
Life can change in an instant - so can your career!
Visit our website to learn more about why Covered California is an employer of choice.
Special Requirements
Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Instructions : A SOQ is required to apply. The SOQ will be used as a pre-interview screening tool. Applicants who do not follow the SOQ instructions and/or do not answer the prompt as stated below may not be considered.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be useful in the development of written responses; however, it is important to use these tools responsibly and ethically. Where assistive tools may be used, responses within the SOQ should be your own original work. Applicants must write in their own words and avoid plagiarism. Failure to comply may be cause for disqualification.
The SOQ must specifically address the desirable qualifications listed below. When responding to these items, applicants must follow these guidelines:
- The SOQ should be numbered in the same order as the desirable qualifications listed below and should address each desirable individually.
- The SOQ should be typed in 12-point Arial font, single-spaced, on letter sized paper (8.5" x 11"), limited to one page per item and no more than three (3) pages total.
- Identify each page with his/her full name.
- Responses should be complete, specific, clear, concise, and include examples.
- Please note, resumes and cover letters will not be considered a substitute for the SOQ.
For each of the statements below, please address each desirable qualification and provide specific examples and an overview of your experience in the relevant areas:
If you have any questions regarding the SOQ requirement, we encourage you to reach out to the recruiter directly: Abby DaSilva, Executive Recruitment Specialist, at (916) 954-3280 or through email at abby.dasilva@covered.ca.gov .
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 4/12/2025
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the applicable Laws and Rules. Please note on your application your current participation in these programs.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Covered California
Employment & Classification Services
Attn: Human Resources Branch: ERU
1601 Exposition Blvd
Sacramento , CA 95815
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Covered California
Employment & Classification Services
Human Resources Branch: ERU
1601 Exposition Blvd
Sacramento , CA 95815
Monday - Friday
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is required and must be included.
- Statement of Qualifications - Please attach your SOQ to your application. Applications received without a SOQ will not be considered. Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in place of a SOQ. Please see "Special Requirements" section for SOQ instructions.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
- Eight years of experience in public relations, communications, integrated marketing, or related fields, with at least three years in a senior leadership role.
- Experience working with a broad range of media outlets and organizations that reach the diverse populations of California and the diverse ways in which consumers access information and news.
- Excellent communication and persuasive writing skills, with experience writing, editing, and producing content for a variety of platforms and channels, including traditional media, social media, and websites.
- Experience building media engagement strategies and crafting responses to media inquiries; knowledge and relationships with statewide and national reporters are a plus.
- Experience building and leading integrated, cross-channel communications strategies and campaigns that align with shifting consumer media consumption habits and the evolving media landscape
- Demonstrated ability to provide leadership, mentor staff, and work in an environment that welcomes and promotes collaboration, partnership, and personal growth and development.
- Ability to serve as a spokesperson on behalf of the organization for media and other public-facing interviews and engagements.
- Experience in collaborating with public and private health care organizations, nonprofit organizations, stakeholder groups, and other interested entities and leaders focused on healthcare issues.
- Basic understanding of the policy issues associated with the health care insurance market and coverage-related issues relevant to individuals and employers.
Benefits
The State of California offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes Health, Vision, Dental, Retirement, and an array of other options. For more information on the benefits offered by the State of California, please click below:
CalHR Benefits Summary
CalHR Salary and Benefits Information
CalPERS Retirement Information
CalPERS Employer Contributions
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Human Resources Contact:
Abby Da Silva
(916) 954-3280
Abby.DaSilva@covered.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
EEO Office
(916) 999-8733
EEO@covered.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Background Check: All applicants shall be subject to a pre-employment background investigation. The investigation will consist of completion of a pre-employment questionnaire, fingerprinting, and an inquiry to the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation to disclose criminal records.
This position is identified as a Conflict of Interest (COI) Form 700 position. Government Code Section 19990 specifies a state officer or employee shall not engage in any employment, activity, or enterprise which is clearly inconsistent, incompatible, in conflict with, or inimical to his or her duties as a state officer or employee. Government Code Section 100500 (f) (1) states, in pertinent part:
"...staff of the Exchange shall not be employed by, a consultant to, a member of the board of directors of, affiliated with, or otherwise a representative of, a carrier or other insurer, and agent or broker, a health care provider, or a health care facility or health clinic while serving on the board or on the staff of the Covered California. A member of the board or of the staff of the Exchange shall not be a member, a board member, or an employee of a trade association of carriers, health facilities, health clinics, or health care providers while serving on the board or on the staff of the Exchange."
Applicants who may fall under Government Code 100500 (f) (1) will be considered ineligible for appointment with the Exchange. Please read the Covered California Incompatible Activities Statement and Policy (CCAM 14-400). Please email any questions or concerns you may have prior to accepting a final offer of employment to Form700@covered.ca.gov.
Additional Application Instructions
Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.
All information regarding your employment history must be included on the State Employment Application STD. 678. Applications that are submitted blank or with "see resume" in place of duties performed or applications received without the following information for each job entry will be considered incomplete and will not be accepted:
- "To" and "from" dates (month/day/year)
- Hours worked per week
- Private sector job titles
- Supervisor name and phone number
- Job duties performed
- State employees must list the specific departments for which they worked and indicate the specific civil service classification titles held (not working titles).
Transcripts:
If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcript for verification. If selected, you will be required to provide official transcripts at the time of hire. Foreign transcripts must include official verification of U.S equivalency prior to appointment by an organization found here.
Personally Identifiable Information:
Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any documents in your application package.
If you have additional questions regarding this advertisement or are having issues applying through CalCareers, please contact Abby DaSilva, Executive Recruitment Specialist at (916) 954-3280 or through email at abby.dasilva@covered.ca.gov .
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.