Communications Specialist 13 / SSB / EMHSD / Public Information and Outreach
Apply NowCompany: State of Michigan
Location: Dimondale, MI 48821
Description:
Salary: $31.06 - $46.36 Hourly
Location : Dimondale, MI
Job Type: Permanent Full Time
Job Number: 5501-2558-TB
Department: State Police
Opening Date: 04/07/2025
Closing Date: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: NON-EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTED EMPLOYEE (NERE)
Job Description
This position functions as the Public Information Officer for Michigan's Emergency Management and Homeland Security program.
This communications specialist is responsible for complex and specialized communication with local, state and federal emergency management programs coordinating public information statewide as needed. During the activation of the State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC), through which the Joint Information Center (JIC) may be activated, this position is responsible for coordination with all state agency Public Information Officers during response and recovery efforts. As directed in Public Act 390, this specialist is responsible for coordination of information between the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, the Governor's Communications group, and is responsible for dispersing critical information as necessary to protect the life and safety of Michigan citizens and visitors in a timely manner.
The specialist manages unique and complex assignments that have a considerable impact on the public reputation of the Executive Office of the Governor. This position will have regular contact with the news media, legislative officials, department work sites, stakeholder groups, Executive Office of the Governor, other state agencies, and the general public.
This position serves as a media contact and responsible for the generation of relevant and timely social media postings and monitoring, as well as website content management, video shooting, and editing. This position participates in Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (EMHSD) exercises and trainings and supports the instructor for all communications training. During SEOC activations, this position supports the SEOC PIO desk. This position serves as communications technology support and serves as the lead on use, maintenance, and continuity of plans for the SEOC livestream equipment and tasked with facilitating technical support for news conferences. This position is required to perform all duties in a bias free manner.
The Michigan State Police is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace that accepts, respects, and values the unique contributions of everyone. We are actively looking for individuals who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, and who reflect the communities we serve. Our members are expected to perform their tasks and duties in a bias-free manner, ensuring all persons are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. Join us as we help build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) is a full-service policing agency with statewide jurisdiction, providing over 60 different services either directly to Michigan residents or in support of other law enforcement agencies. The MSP personnel most visible to the public are the uniform troopers whose primary responsibilities include traffic enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and community engagement and service.
Required Education and Experience
Education
Possession of a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, broadcasting, telecommunications, advertising, or communication arts.
Experience
Four years of professional experience in the communications field equivalent to a Communications Representative, including two years equivalent to a Communications Representative P11 or one year equivalent to a Communications Representative 12.
Additional Requirements and Information
This position requires passing a pre-employment screening, including passing a drug screen, criminal history background check, and a fingerprint check by the Michigan State Police.
Please attach a cover letter/memo, resume, and official college transcripts (if applicable)to your application. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted.
Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume, cover letter/memo, and (if applicable) official transcripts to their application.
Certain positions may be assigned subclass codes and individuals appointed must possess the required specialized experience.
NOTE: Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
View the entire job specification at:
The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.
Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State employment also offers rewarding careers where you can help Michiganders enjoy better lives. Many State of Michigan jobs offer alternate work schedules and remote-work options that can help give the flexibility you need. The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.
More details on benefits for our new hires are below:
Rewarding Work: State of Michigan jobs allow you to serve Michiganders in many different ways depending on your interests and skills. Help preserve and protect our environment and the public health; enforce state laws and regulations; advocate for children, families, and victims of discrimination; support our state's military and veterans; rebuild our state's infrastructure; or support other state agencies through our fiscal, IT, and HR systems.
Insurance Benefits: The State of Michigan offers health, mental health, dental, and vision insurance to eligible career employees, their spouses, and their children. The state also covers a life-insurance benefit of two times employees' annual salary (up to $200,000). The state also offers long-term-disability insurance that can provide continuing benefits if an injury or illness prevents employees from working. More information is available at www.mi.gov/employeebenefits.
Retirement Programs: The State of Michigan offers 401(k) and 457 plans for new hires to save for retirement. The state will automatically contribute an amount equal to 4% of your pay to a 401(k) account. The state will also match up to 5% of your pay if you contribute to your 401(k) account. Your contributions vest immediately, and the state's contributions fully vest after just 4 years. More information is available at http://www.mi.gov/orsstatedc.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Eligible full-time employees receive between 15 and 35 personal days and 13 sick days per year that may be rolled over to the following year if not used. Eligible employees also receive an additional day each year for community service or school functions.
Paid Parental Leave: Eligible employees can take 12 weeks of paid leave immediately after a birth or adoption to allow needed time together at home with a new child.
Paid Holidays: Eligible employees receive 13 or 14 paid holidays each year including New Year's Eve and Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Friday, Christmas Eve and Day.
Bonus Programs: Eligible employees with five years of service also receive annual longevity bonuses that grow as seniority increases. Some positions also may qualify for recruitment, retention, and performance bonuses or other special pay premiums.
Military Pay Differential: Employees in the guard or reserves may also qualify for supplemental pay benefits if miliary pay during qualifying duty is less than normal state pay. Prior military service may also allow seniority credits to accelerate eligibility for longevity bonuses and additional personal leave accrual.
Tax-Advantaged Programs: In addition to 401(k) and 457 retirement accounts, the state also offers flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), and qualified transportation fringe benefit (QTFB) programs that can help you save money by reducing your taxable income.
Student Loan Forgiveness: Working for the State of Michigan may allow you to participate in programs that forgive the balance of qualifying student loans. Information to help determine if you could qualify is available from the U.S. Department of Education.
Tuition Reduction: Some colleges and universities offer savings to eligible employees and family members to further their education while working for the State of Michigan.
Professional Development: To help develop your career, programs are available to apply for reimbursement of up to $2,000 a year for education and training for college course credits and non-degree programs.
Alternative and Remote Work Schedules: Depending on the nature of their duties, many state jobs offer flexible work schedules and remote or hybrid telecommuting options that can help obtain the work-life balance that you seek.
Great Lakes and Great Times: Michigan boasts four Great Lakes, 11,000 inland lakes, 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, 20 million acres of forests, 100 state and national parks and recreation areas, 1,300 miles of bike trails, 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, the second-most ski areas in the nation, 650 public golf courses, 600 campgrounds, and an international dark-sky park-just for starters. Our cities offer concerts and cultural events, storied sports teams, education hubs, vibrant downtowns, one-of-a-kind craft beverages, and renowned restaurants for every appetite. From urban centers to beach towns to the great outdoors, the opportunities are endless. With your state salary and benefits and Michigan's affordable cost of living, you can explore all that Michigan has to offer.
Updated: 2/28/24
01
COMSPL - Do you possess a bachelor's degree or higher in English, journalism, communications, broadcasting, telecommunications, advertising, communication arts, public relations or a related field? If so, please attach a copy of your official college transcripts.
02
COMSPL - Do you possess at least four years of professional experience in the communications field?
03
Do you have experience writing speeches, talking points, or news releases?
04
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience and attach a sample of your most recent work to your application. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
05
Do you have knowledge of working in media, public relations, or public speaking?
06
If you responded yes to the above, please describe your role(s), the types of media and/or public relations you worked within. If you do not possess this knowledge, please enter N/A.
07
Do you have professional video shooting experience?
08
Are you proficient in Adobe Premiere or other executive level editing programs?
09
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience and attach a sample of your most recent work to your application. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
10
Have you facilitated or played a role in the live broadcast of an event?
11
If you responded yes to the above, please describe the event, your responsibilities, and how you handled any challenges. If you responded no, please enter N/A.
12
Do you possess experience working independently, managing multiple projects and varied tasks simultaneously, and prioritizing urgent requests for information, while working within tight deadlines?
13
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
14
MSPCRIMHST - Please check all that apply.
15
MSPCRIMHST1 - If "Yes," please describe each with the respective date, offense, location, and disposition. If not applicable, please indicate N/A.
16
MSPNEP - Please review the For this selection, is there a potential to violate the policy?
17
MSPNEP1 - If you responded yes to potentially violating the , please provide the name and relationship of the individual. If none, please respond N/A.
18
MSPDOCS - Have you attached all of the following required documents within the attachments section of your application?
Required Question
Location : Dimondale, MI
Job Type: Permanent Full Time
Job Number: 5501-2558-TB
Department: State Police
Opening Date: 04/07/2025
Closing Date: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: NON-EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTED EMPLOYEE (NERE)
Job Description
This position functions as the Public Information Officer for Michigan's Emergency Management and Homeland Security program.
This communications specialist is responsible for complex and specialized communication with local, state and federal emergency management programs coordinating public information statewide as needed. During the activation of the State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC), through which the Joint Information Center (JIC) may be activated, this position is responsible for coordination with all state agency Public Information Officers during response and recovery efforts. As directed in Public Act 390, this specialist is responsible for coordination of information between the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, the Governor's Communications group, and is responsible for dispersing critical information as necessary to protect the life and safety of Michigan citizens and visitors in a timely manner.
The specialist manages unique and complex assignments that have a considerable impact on the public reputation of the Executive Office of the Governor. This position will have regular contact with the news media, legislative officials, department work sites, stakeholder groups, Executive Office of the Governor, other state agencies, and the general public.
This position serves as a media contact and responsible for the generation of relevant and timely social media postings and monitoring, as well as website content management, video shooting, and editing. This position participates in Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (EMHSD) exercises and trainings and supports the instructor for all communications training. During SEOC activations, this position supports the SEOC PIO desk. This position serves as communications technology support and serves as the lead on use, maintenance, and continuity of plans for the SEOC livestream equipment and tasked with facilitating technical support for news conferences. This position is required to perform all duties in a bias free manner.
The Michigan State Police is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace that accepts, respects, and values the unique contributions of everyone. We are actively looking for individuals who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, and who reflect the communities we serve. Our members are expected to perform their tasks and duties in a bias-free manner, ensuring all persons are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. Join us as we help build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) is a full-service policing agency with statewide jurisdiction, providing over 60 different services either directly to Michigan residents or in support of other law enforcement agencies. The MSP personnel most visible to the public are the uniform troopers whose primary responsibilities include traffic enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and community engagement and service.
Required Education and Experience
Education
Possession of a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, broadcasting, telecommunications, advertising, or communication arts.
Experience
Four years of professional experience in the communications field equivalent to a Communications Representative, including two years equivalent to a Communications Representative P11 or one year equivalent to a Communications Representative 12.
Additional Requirements and Information
This position requires passing a pre-employment screening, including passing a drug screen, criminal history background check, and a fingerprint check by the Michigan State Police.
Please attach a cover letter/memo, resume, and official college transcripts (if applicable)to your application. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted.
Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume, cover letter/memo, and (if applicable) official transcripts to their application.
Certain positions may be assigned subclass codes and individuals appointed must possess the required specialized experience.
NOTE: Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
View the entire job specification at:
The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.
Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State employment also offers rewarding careers where you can help Michiganders enjoy better lives. Many State of Michigan jobs offer alternate work schedules and remote-work options that can help give the flexibility you need. The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.
More details on benefits for our new hires are below:
Rewarding Work: State of Michigan jobs allow you to serve Michiganders in many different ways depending on your interests and skills. Help preserve and protect our environment and the public health; enforce state laws and regulations; advocate for children, families, and victims of discrimination; support our state's military and veterans; rebuild our state's infrastructure; or support other state agencies through our fiscal, IT, and HR systems.
Insurance Benefits: The State of Michigan offers health, mental health, dental, and vision insurance to eligible career employees, their spouses, and their children. The state also covers a life-insurance benefit of two times employees' annual salary (up to $200,000). The state also offers long-term-disability insurance that can provide continuing benefits if an injury or illness prevents employees from working. More information is available at www.mi.gov/employeebenefits.
Retirement Programs: The State of Michigan offers 401(k) and 457 plans for new hires to save for retirement. The state will automatically contribute an amount equal to 4% of your pay to a 401(k) account. The state will also match up to 5% of your pay if you contribute to your 401(k) account. Your contributions vest immediately, and the state's contributions fully vest after just 4 years. More information is available at http://www.mi.gov/orsstatedc.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Eligible full-time employees receive between 15 and 35 personal days and 13 sick days per year that may be rolled over to the following year if not used. Eligible employees also receive an additional day each year for community service or school functions.
Paid Parental Leave: Eligible employees can take 12 weeks of paid leave immediately after a birth or adoption to allow needed time together at home with a new child.
Paid Holidays: Eligible employees receive 13 or 14 paid holidays each year including New Year's Eve and Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Friday, Christmas Eve and Day.
Bonus Programs: Eligible employees with five years of service also receive annual longevity bonuses that grow as seniority increases. Some positions also may qualify for recruitment, retention, and performance bonuses or other special pay premiums.
Military Pay Differential: Employees in the guard or reserves may also qualify for supplemental pay benefits if miliary pay during qualifying duty is less than normal state pay. Prior military service may also allow seniority credits to accelerate eligibility for longevity bonuses and additional personal leave accrual.
Tax-Advantaged Programs: In addition to 401(k) and 457 retirement accounts, the state also offers flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), and qualified transportation fringe benefit (QTFB) programs that can help you save money by reducing your taxable income.
Student Loan Forgiveness: Working for the State of Michigan may allow you to participate in programs that forgive the balance of qualifying student loans. Information to help determine if you could qualify is available from the U.S. Department of Education.
Tuition Reduction: Some colleges and universities offer savings to eligible employees and family members to further their education while working for the State of Michigan.
Professional Development: To help develop your career, programs are available to apply for reimbursement of up to $2,000 a year for education and training for college course credits and non-degree programs.
Alternative and Remote Work Schedules: Depending on the nature of their duties, many state jobs offer flexible work schedules and remote or hybrid telecommuting options that can help obtain the work-life balance that you seek.
Great Lakes and Great Times: Michigan boasts four Great Lakes, 11,000 inland lakes, 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, 20 million acres of forests, 100 state and national parks and recreation areas, 1,300 miles of bike trails, 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, the second-most ski areas in the nation, 650 public golf courses, 600 campgrounds, and an international dark-sky park-just for starters. Our cities offer concerts and cultural events, storied sports teams, education hubs, vibrant downtowns, one-of-a-kind craft beverages, and renowned restaurants for every appetite. From urban centers to beach towns to the great outdoors, the opportunities are endless. With your state salary and benefits and Michigan's affordable cost of living, you can explore all that Michigan has to offer.
Updated: 2/28/24
01
COMSPL - Do you possess a bachelor's degree or higher in English, journalism, communications, broadcasting, telecommunications, advertising, communication arts, public relations or a related field? If so, please attach a copy of your official college transcripts.
- Yes
- No
02
COMSPL - Do you possess at least four years of professional experience in the communications field?
- Yes
- No
03
Do you have experience writing speeches, talking points, or news releases?
- Yes
- No
04
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience and attach a sample of your most recent work to your application. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
05
Do you have knowledge of working in media, public relations, or public speaking?
- Yes
- No
06
If you responded yes to the above, please describe your role(s), the types of media and/or public relations you worked within. If you do not possess this knowledge, please enter N/A.
07
Do you have professional video shooting experience?
- Yes
- No
08
Are you proficient in Adobe Premiere or other executive level editing programs?
- Yes
- No
09
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience and attach a sample of your most recent work to your application. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
10
Have you facilitated or played a role in the live broadcast of an event?
- Yes
- No
11
If you responded yes to the above, please describe the event, your responsibilities, and how you handled any challenges. If you responded no, please enter N/A.
12
Do you possess experience working independently, managing multiple projects and varied tasks simultaneously, and prioritizing urgent requests for information, while working within tight deadlines?
- Yes
- No
13
If you responded yes to the above, please explain your experience. If you do not possess this experience, please enter N/A.
14
MSPCRIMHST - Please check all that apply.
- Convicted of a felony (provide date, offense, location and disposition below)
- Convicted of a misdemeanor (provide date, offense, location and disposition below)
- Felony criminal charges are pending (please explain below)
- None
15
MSPCRIMHST1 - If "Yes," please describe each with the respective date, offense, location, and disposition. If not applicable, please indicate N/A.
16
MSPNEP - Please review the For this selection, is there a potential to violate the policy?
- Yes
- No
17
MSPNEP1 - If you responded yes to potentially violating the , please provide the name and relationship of the individual. If none, please respond N/A.
18
MSPDOCS - Have you attached all of the following required documents within the attachments section of your application?
- Cover letter/memo
- Resume
- Official Transcript (if applicable)
- Yes
- No
Required Question