Design Manager, Communications Manager 1

Initial Posting Date:

04/02/2025

Application Deadline:

04/13/2025

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

$6,667 - $10,311

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Design Manager, Communications Manager 1

Job Description:

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.

Limited duration positions are benefit eligible positions with a designated maximum length of service. This position is expected to last through June 30, 2026; however, based on workload need and funding it could end at any time, be extended, or become permanent.

Opportunity Awaits! We're in search of leaders committed to promoting and fostering a diverse and qualified workforce where individuals feel welcome, appreciated, and valued for all they bring to the organization. The Design Manager develops and executes communication strategies, managing design projects, and ensuring consistent brand messaging across various platforms, while also leading and mentoring a team of designers. If you possess this experience, consider taking on a key role in our team as the (Designer Manager, Communications Manager 1, ODHS|OHA Shared Services/Publications and Creative Services Office (PCS) for the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

About Shared Services Publications and Creative Services

The office of Shared Services/Publications and Creative Services Office (PCS), which is part of the Department of Human Services (DHS) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The Publications and Creative Services Office consists of 30+ FTE and supports the brand design of DHS|OHA forms, digital media, and publications.

Summary of Duties

As a Design Manager, you will:

• This position will serve as a manager for a design team, content creation team, enterprise forms and asset management IT solutions, and an enterprise Forms Repository Server to develop and coordinate ODHS and OHA external public-facing communication programs.
• Requires advanced knowledge and understanding of software and hardware solutions for marketing, design and communications options related to all aspects of graphic design, accessibility, complex communications, translations services, business automation, digital solutions, publication storage, fulfillment services, audio-visual production, retention guidelines, editing and best practices in this field.
• Provide direct supervision, training, and management over design team staff and work across the unit and with internal partners to ensure understanding of standards and practices.
• Organizes and assigns work activities and projects, manages programs, monitors workflow, and reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures in coordination with key leaders, communications, and program staff in ODHS and OHA.
• Works with staff and internal and external parties to develop and manage communication standards and branding efforts.
• Oversees, manages, and maintains vendor contracts.
• Manages, designs, and implements the delivery of design products, marketing, and marketing initiatives. Uses a wide variety of media including written, digital, audio, visual, social, and web-based formats.
• Assists the Director and other managers in preparing the division budget and participates in forecasting additional funds needed for contracting services, software, hardware, subscriptions, staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Oversees the training, development, and evolution of Adobe Experience Manager, Creative Cloud, Workfront, and other critical software for the unit while looking toward the future of a design shop within state government.
• Leads team training and training plans for new processes and software related to the design team.

Minimum Qualifications

Five years of lead work, supervision, or progressively related experience; OR two years of related experience and a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Design Skills: Proficiency in graphic design software and a strong understanding of visual communication principles using Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) digital accessibility standards.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex information to various audiences. 
• Project Management Skills: Strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines. 
• Leadership Skills: Ability to lead and mentor a team, delegate tasks effectively, and motivate others. 
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement effective communication strategies that align with business goals. 
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with digital marketing platforms, social media management tools, and website technologies. 

Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history. Failure to submit the required cover letter will result in disqualification of your application.

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

Working Conditions

• This position functions in a high-energy environment with frequent interruptions and works remotely.
• Must be flexible to meet tight deadlines—has contact by virtual platforms, by telephone, and through written correspondence with staff members from different organizational and legislative levels to manage projects, gather and verify information, and explain policy and processes.
• This position involves ongoing contact with executive managers to plan projects, recommend policies, present research findings, and explain internal processes, policies, and procedures or give information.
• This position works with a high degree of independence and receives general supervision from an administrative superior.
• Assignments are often self-generated and approved by a supervisor for implementation or are given in general terms with a due date and reviewed upon completion.
• This position ensures completed work complies with ODHS|OHA policies and federal regulations.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Amazing benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

Veterans’ preference:

• Veterans’ preference information.
• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

General Information

• This is a limited duration, full-time position and is a Managment Service, Supervisory position and is not represented by a union.  
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Nora Leyva Esquivel. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-178074.
• Email: Nora.L.LEYVA-ESQUIVEL@odhs.oregon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 503-269-4222