Job Description

Job Description and Duties

At the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), we are working to rethink what’s possible through strategic communication. Going beyond public information checklists and playbooks of the past, we strive to make a difference through connecting with people and telling the stories that may often get overlooked or lost in the details. We need a passionate and experienced communications professional who’s willing to roll up their sleeves, put pen to paper, and help us make this happen.

This is your chance to drive cutting-edge communications on a state, national, and global stage. The CNRA Communications Officer role is ideal for someone who thrives on action, embraces innovation and new ways of doing things, and has a clear vision of where the communications field is headed—and isn’t afraid to lead the way. We’re looking for someone who is endlessly curious, continuously learning, and unafraid to dive in, push the boundaries, and craft compelling narratives across various channels, including traditional media, digital media, live events, and face-to-face engagement.

As CNRA’s Communications Officer, you’ll work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment under the guidance of the Deputy Secretary for Communications. Collaborating closely with the Assistant Deputy Secretary for Communications and the broader communications team, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Natural Resources Secretary and the CNRA Executive Team by: 

• Leading media relations through managing 1-2 critical issue areas, providing guidance for department operations, and supporting speaking engagements and press events. Exceptional writing skills, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal abilities are essential for building strong relationships and handling high-pressure situations. 

• Driving social media and content creation by taking charge of CNRA’s digital communication channels, developing and maintaining a weekly content calendar, and spotting opportunities to tell agency stories in meaningful ways. This includes knowing the latest trends and news, understanding how to leverage this, creating engaging social media content that breaks through the noise, shooting and editing short-form videos, and translating complex government information into something compelling that someone wants to read or be aware of.
  

• Coordinating high-profile events through partnering with internal teams, leadership, and external stakeholders to plan and execute agency events, digital webinars, and other special event programs. Serve as a representative of the Secretary’s Office and a high-level liaison with the Governor’s Office and department leaders. 

While this position serves under a matrix reporting structure and will regularly work with leaders across all levels of government and the Governor’s Office, the Communications Officer is responsible for prioritizing and organizing workflow, independently driving strategy, spotting opportunities, and delivering content and projects from idea to implementation.

Minimum Qualifications (MQs): The MQs for this classification can be found at . The documents you submit in your application package must highlight how you meet the MQs. If the MQs are not met, you will not be considered for this position.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

This position provides hybrid telework opportunities. Beginning July 1, 2025, employees may be required to work in-person four days per week under the Energy Commission's telework policy currently under development as required by Executive Order N-22-25 and current CalHR guidance. CEC will review requests for exemptions on a case-by-case basis, with consideration to operational needs and the benefits of in-person interaction. Teleworking is only available for employees who reside in California. You must be located in California and provide your in-state address prior to your start date. Regular and consistent attendance is essential to successful performance. Occasional travel may be required based on the needs of the division.

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

The incumbent will perform duties from both telework and in-person office settings as needed for operational effectiveness. The reporting location is the California Natural Resources Agency Headquarters in Sacramento.

California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CNRA values diverse employees working together to protect biodiversity for all Californians. CNRA prioritizes an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences and is free from discrimination. 

Special Requirements

You must include the following if you are applying by mail or in person:

1) How you are eligible (list eligibility, transfer within state service, reinstatement, SROA/surplus, etc.) in the Explanations box on the first page of the STD. 678.

2) The Job Control number 477934 and the title of the position you are applying for in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) box on the first page of the STD. 678.

3) Request for Personnel Action Number 130-194 in the Explanations box of the STD. 678.

4) Your original signature at the bottom of the first page of the STD. 678.

5) Include unofficial school transcripts with your application package if the position you are applying for has an educational requirement. You may be required to provide official transcripts if hired.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Additional Information & Application Instructions

Candidate may be selected by resume review.

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 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.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts

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