Job Description
Public and Government Affairs Director
Job ID: 107588
Location: Oregon City, Oregon
Full/Part Time: Full Time
Regular/Temporary:Regular
CLACKAMAS COUNTY CORE VALUES
Clackamas County employees work to serve the public and enrich our community. In that spirit, we pledge to hold ourselves to these standards at all times in our interactions with customers and one another:
• Service
• Professionalism
• Integrity
• Respect
• Individual accountability
• Trust
By incorporating these values into our daily routines, we can better serve our customers, ourselves and our projects. We're always looking to improve. That's the Clackamas County SPIRIT. https://www.clackamas.us/countyadmin/spirit
Clackamas County is committed to building a community where people thrive, have a sense of safety, connection, and belonging, so that everyone is honored and celebrated for the richness in diversity they bring. We encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds and lived experience to apply.
CLOSE DATE
This position will remain open until filled. The first application review will be on Monday, September 16, 2024. We reserve the right to close this recruitment at any time on or after that date.
PAY AND BENEFITS
The salary range is $ 167,393 - $ 225,978 annually plus 6.27% deferred compensation.
Salary offers will be made within the posted pay range and will be based on a candidate's experience (paid or unpaid) that is directly relevant to the position. The position is employed "at-will" under an employment contract with the County Administrator. This position is included in the county's alternate workweek program, working 40 hours during a standard workweek of Monday through Thursday (Fridays off).
Clackamas County proudly offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including competitive wages, cost-of-living adjustments, merit increases (for eligible employees), and a robust sick and vacation plan for regular status employees.
We encourage and support employee health and wellness by offering, health and wellness classes and events, and alternative care benefits, so you can customize your wellness needs to fit your lifestyle. Employee benefits become effective the first of the month following an employee's date of hire.
Attractive benefits package and incentives for employees in regular status positions are detailed below.
Generous paid time off package, including:
• 16 hours of vacation accrual per month
• Eligible newly hired employees will have the one-time option to frontload their first year of vacation leave! This means you have access to vacation at time of hire.
• 8 hours of sick accrual per month
• 10 paid holidays and 1 personal day per year
Other Benefits:
• Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP):
• Employer-paid 6% PERS retirement contribution(The county currently pays the employee's share of the retirement contribution.)
• Executive-level employees receive a county-paid contribution of 6.27% of base salary into 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
• A Choice of Medical Plans that include chiropractic coverage, alternative care, vision, and prescription drug coverage
• A Choice of Dental Plans
• Robust EAP and wellness programs, including gym discounts and wellness education classes
• Longevity pay
• Other retirement Savings Options that allow for additional retirement funds savings, including an option to contribute a portion of employee earnings on a pre or post-tax basis to a 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
• A variety of additional optional benefits (see links below for additional information)
This is a full time non-represented group 1 County position.
https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/7f1da444-455c-4585-be14-4fc3914ea0b9
http://www.clackamas.us/des/benefits.html
JOB DETAILS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Clackamas County seeks an experienced, highly skilled, and dynamic leader with excellent strategic, management, and interpersonal skills to serve as our next Public & Government Affairs Director.
The Department of Public and Government Affairs (PGA) leads countywide efforts in communication and collaboration between the county and its diverse stakeholders, including the media, community organizations, elected officials, and the public. By coordinating public information and intergovernmental relations, PGA plays a crucial role in policy formulation and facilitating public involvement in decision-making processes. The department manages various programs, including Cable Communications, Government Affairs, and Public Affairs, to ensure effective dissemination of information and public participation.
The PGA Director is a pivotal leadership position within the county, serving as a key member of the Executive Management Team. Reporting directly to the County Administrator, the Director manages government affairs, public involvement, media relations, public affairs, cable franchises, and oversees video productions for the county's cable channel. This role involves representing the county in policy formulation and coordinating intergovernmental communication with federal, state, and local governments. Our PGA Director's contributions are integral to delivering quality services across all county programs.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate for this position will be an experienced communications leader in public affairs, government affairs, public involvement, and media relations manager/director with a history of excellent judgment under pressure. To lead the department, the Director must understand the risks, cost factors, and opportunities in strategic communications, public engagement, intergovernmental and legislative relations, and consultation and communication services.
Required Minimum Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
• At least nine (9) years of relevant communications, government affairs, public involvement, or media relations department or program experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.
• At least three (3) years of that experience must have been in a leadership or program management role with full supervisory responsibilities
• Experience developing strategic communications plans, key messages, and strategies
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and patience
• Familiarity with a broad range of federal, state, and local government operating methods and procedures
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Ability to travel long distances, which includes overnight travel
Preferred Special Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
• A Master's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Experience working with and on behalf of elected officials
• Management experience in the public sector
• Experience with engaging the public/public involvement programs
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment. http://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/828106a0-265a-47cc-a3a6-0a2c8b028673
*For Veterans qualified for Veteran's Preference: If you believe you have skills that would transfer well to this position and/or special qualifications that relate to this position, please list those skills and/or qualifications in the open-ended question at the end of the application and explain how those skills and/or qualifications relate to this position.
TYPICAL TASKS
As the Public and Government Affairs Director, you will coordinate the county's government affairs, media relations, public involvement, and cable communications. You will develop strategic plans to ensure a high-quality, integrated public relations and communications program. Leading the county's efforts in legislative policy development, you will coordinate representation in drafting and advocating for legislation that impacts County operations. You'll work closely with departments to assess new legislation and determine effective implementation strategies.
Maintaining robust relationships with legislators, elected officials, and intergovernmental associations will be crucial. You will participate in committees and meetings to foster cooperative interactions and ensure seamless communication with local and regional government representatives. Your expertise in analyzing pending legislation will be vital in advising the Board and County management on legislative priorities and their implications for County operations.
You will also actively participate in local, regional, and state organizations, promoting intergovernmental programs and supporting the Board of County Commissioners on critical issues. Crafting strategic communications plans will be a significant aspect of your role, as you'll develop key messages and advise departments on public relations strategies. Creating written content for various publications and establishing editorial guidelines will be part of your efforts to enhance public engagement.
In addition to these responsibilities, you will design community involvement protocols, offering training and coordination to facilitate civic engagement through planning organizations, advisory boards, and other avenues. Your work will also include developing management objectives for cable franchise negotiations and ensuring high-quality cable productions that serve government purposes.
As a steward of the county's financial resources, you will prepare and monitor an annual budget to the county budget committee and Board of County Commissioners. Leadership is central to this role, as you will hire and supervise staff, conduct performance evaluations, and foster cooperative team efforts to deliver exemplary service to the community and County staff.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
The ideal candidate will possess comprehensive knowledge of public administration principles, methods, and techniques, including public policy and decision-making. Understanding federal, state, and local legislative processes, along with the principles of public relations and community involvement, is essential. Familiarity with the organization and function of County departments and agencies, as well as federal, state, and local statutes, rules, and regulations applicable to legislative lobbying, will be critical to success in this role. The candidate should be well-versed in government operating methods, strategic plans, and cooperative programs related to intergovernmental operations, including land use, economic development, transportation, and revenue sharing.
The role requires mediation, negotiation, and public relations skills, along with a strong foundation in supervision and participatory management theories. Understanding emerging communications trends, media, and technologies will be advantageous.
Essential skills include communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, and developing publications and targeted outreach strategies. The candidate should be capable of organizing, coordinating, and implementing comprehensive legislative and intergovernmental relations programs and agendas. Analytical skills are necessary to evaluate legislation and its potential impact on County operations. The ability to formulate and implement operational and administrative policies, prepare and justify budget requests, and develop contracted service agreements is also required.
The role requires adaptability to respond to changes desired by the public and county staff and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with government agencies, elected officials, county employees, and the public. A strong understanding of federal, state, and local statutes, rules, and regulations relevant to assigned programs is essential, as is the ability to train, direct, evaluate, and supervise personnel.
All these traits contribute to a competitive candidate for this challenging and exciting opportunity. Your leadership will be instrumental in improving the quality, productivity, and effectiveness of our operations, making a significant impact on our community and county staff.
WORK SCHEDULE
This position is included in the County's alternate workweek program, working 40 hours during a standard workweek of Monday through Thursday (Fridays off). Specific hours of work will be discussed with the candidate selected for this position at the time an offer of employment is extended. This position is eligible for hybrid on-site/telework subject to the https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/9065b5fb-2237-47ce-9534-e7c8c40fc2bc and based on the Department's business needs. The exact amount of on-site/telework and schedule will be discussed with the hiring manager during time of offer. Telework locations cannot be located outside of Oregon or Washington. Washington residents must perform 50% of their time on-site at Clackamas County.
EXPLORE CLACKAMAS COUNTY
Clackamas County is in a prime location in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area and is recognized nationally as one of the most livable areas in the United States. Located on the southern edge of the City of Portland and extending to the top of Mt. Hood, Clackamas County is part of a thriving region in the Northwest. It has a population of about 420,000 residents.
• http://www.clackamas.us/
• http://www.clackamas.us/onboarding/
• https://www.mthoodterritory.com/
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
Public & Government Affairs provides strategic messaging, community involvement, and informative content to the public, the Board of County Commissioners, and all the departments serving Clackamas County.
Strategy & Policy
The Strategy and Policy Program provides strategic planning, policy analysis, and support services to the residents of Clackamas County, their Board of County Commissioners, and other countywide elected officials. By facilitating equitable access to critical information, this program empowers decision-makers and the community to make informed decisions, fostering results that align with the county's strategic objectives and vision for progress.
County Brand Identity Program
The County Brand Identity Program delivers unified strategic messaging and consistent visual identity services to the residents of Clackamas County, their Board of County Commissioners, and countywide elected officials. This program enhances public recognition of the county's values and mission, ensuring stakeholders see and appreciate the significance of their investment and engagement with the county's initiatives.
Communications & Community Engagement
The Communications and Community Engagement Program prepares comprehensive multimedia outreach, information dissemination, consultation, and coordination. This program aims to facilitate equitable access to government services, enable public influence on policy-making, and strengthen the connection and trust between the government and its constituents, thereby allowing residents to impact the future of their community.
Government and External Relations
The Government and External Relations Program provides public policy analysis, development, coordination, and advocacy services in collaboration with various county departments. This program supports the county's policy priorities. It ensures that the governance framework aligns with the community's needs, thereby contributing to an environment where the residents of Clackamas County can thrive.
http://www.clackamas.us/pga/
APPLICATION PROCESS
Clackamas County only accepts online applications.
Help With Your Application:
• https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/6b3147a3-bf84-4f52-8238-64a37e936b4f
• https://www.clackamas.us/jobs#helpwiththeapplication
If you have any questions or issues you may contact the Department of Human Resources at 503-655-8459 or mailto:jobs@co.clackamas.or.us?subject=Application%20Materials%20Question. Our office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time (closed on Fridays).
HOW TO CLAIM VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
• https://www.clackamas.us/des/jobs.html
• https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/a67ee11c-861c-4126-aa5a-4dec6174f6eb
VISA SPONSORSHIP
Clackamas County does not offer visa sponsorships. Once a job applicant has accepted a position, they will be required to complete an I-9 and confirm authorization to work in the United States prior to their first day.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Clackamas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the Department of Human Resources prior to the recruitment close date. You may request an accommodation during the online application process.
RECRUITING QUESTIONS?
James Callahan, Recruiter
mailto:JCallahan@clackamas.us?subject=RECRUITMENT%20QUESTIONS
To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/5562992
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