Communications Manager (03907)

The Teachers' Retirement System (TRS) serves active and retired teachers and educators in the State of Montana. Its primary purpose is to administer their pension plan, which includes payment of retirement benefits, collection of member contributions, enrollment of new members, and other activities necessary for TRS operations.

In this position, you will primarily work onsite in Helena, with the possibility of limited telework being considered in the future once you are fully trained. Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy.

We are looking for a highly organized, professional individual with experience writing and editing complex documentation in a highly regulated environment, who demonstrates strong attention to detail and adaptability as priorities evolve. The Communications Manager works closely with the TRS senior leadership team to plan, create, and maintain all forms, fact sheets, policy documents, reports, and web content necessary for TRS operations, as well as presentations and videos designed to educate members, employers, and the public about TRS. This role requires the technical aptitude to learn and effectively use technical tools and processes that support TRS communications and documentation management. This position also supervises one staff person.

The individual selected for this role will:

• Create and revise TRS forms, documents, reports, and other materials, ensuring meticulous version control is maintained through effective document tracking methodologies.
• Oversee the work of a Communications Specialist and delegate tasks to ensure internal and external deadlines are met.
• Work collaboratively with TRS legal counsel, leadership team, subject matter experts and others to implement regulatory changes, achieve Board objectives, and expand TRS communication and outreach efforts.
• Prepare and publicly post information about each meeting of the Teachers' Retirement Board.
• Follow legislative changes and work with the Executive Director to disseminate information during and after each session of the Montana Legislature.
• Ensure public-facing web content and digital media meet ADA / Section 508 accessibility standards.
• Keep up to date on emerging technologies as they relate to TRS communications and documentation management.

A little bit about TRS:

• We take pride in ensuring quality and accuracy in everything we do, and we are known for our friendly, top-notch customer service.
• Our office is located in downtown Helena with access to paid parking.
• We provide training opportunities.

If you feel you have the qualities to be successful in this position, please submit your resume, cover letter, three business references, and at least two work samples. In your cover letter, discuss how your knowledge and work experience would translate to success for you in this position. For your work samples, briefly explain your role in conceptualizing, designing, writing and/or presenting the materials as well as the audience for whom they were created.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, Technical Communications, Education, or a related field appropriate to the position, and

• At least two years' experience in communications, technical writing, training, or similar roles.

• Alternate combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Competencies:

• Strong writing, editing, and document formatting skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines at once
• Experience speaking in front of an audience and/or giving educational presentations
• Experience conducting webinars or online meetings with Zoom or Microsoft Teams
• Personnel management skills, including the ability to set effective goals, delegate tasks and provide constructive feedback
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Experience with the following tools and processes (or the ability to learn them):

o Adobe Creative Suite applications, including InDesign and Acrobat Pro

o Documentation management and version control methodologies

o Web content management, with basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and responsive web design

o Video and photo editing tools (e.g., Camtasia, Premiere, Photoshop), as well as tools for creating graphics and visual aids (e.g., SnagIt, Canva)

o Print and mail production

Only online applications are accepted. By applying online, you are able to receive updates and monitor the status of your application.