Job Description

The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) is seeking a highly motivated and creative contract   Communications Specialist   to support the Tobacco Use Prevention and Control Program and the Chronic Disease Section. This role plays a critical part in developing clear, compelling, and culturally relevant communications that motivate positive health behaviors and improve health outcomes for Tennesseans.

We are looking for a collaborative team player who is passionate about public health, brings fresh ideas, and contributes to an inclusive and mission-driven environment. The ideal candidate is adaptable, detail-oriented, and enjoys transforming information into clear, concise messages that are accessible to diverse audiences.

Contract position is renewed annually, pending funding availability. Funding is currently available through June 2027.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, write, and manage content across multiple platforms, including websites, newsletters, social media, print materials, presentations, and reports.
  
• Translate complex public health topics into clear, engaging, and approachable messages for a variety of audiences.
  
• Assist in creating and maintaining content that aligns with digital accessibility requirements, including ADA/WCAG 2.1 AA and Revised Section 508 standards.
  
• Support the planning, development, and execution of public health and marketing campaigns, including creative concepting, messaging, and timeline management.
  
• Assist with media placement efforts by coordinating with vendors, researching appropriate channels, managing deliverables, and ensuring timely, accurate distribution of campaign assets.
  
• Track and monitor campaign performance metrics and help adjust strategies to expand reach, engagement, and overall effectiveness.
  

· Collaborate with subject matter experts, creative teams, and community partners

· Demonstrate flexibility when priorities shift.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
  
• 2–5 years of experience in public health, nonprofit, or government communications preferred.
  
• Proficiency in Canva and Adobe Creative Suite (graphic design samples required).
  
• Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, digital accessibility requirements (WCAG 2.1 AA / Section 508).
  
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
  
• Understanding of cultural competency and sensitivity in public health communications.
  
• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and projects in a remote work environment.
  
• A collaborative, innovative, and flexible team member with strong problem-solving skills.
  
• Must currently reside in Tennessee.
  

Portfolio Submission

Please include a hyperlink to virtual portfolio. Please include 2–3 writing samples (or bylined articles) and 3–5 relevant design examples in the portfolio.

Work Environment

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement within a supportive, mission-focused team.   Staff are expected to attend mandatory in-person meetings in Nashville, a minimum of eight (8) times a year, but more as required by leadership.     The Communications Specialist will join a department that values creativity, inclusiveness, innovation, and continuous learning. Every project contributes to TDH’s mission of improving the health and well-being of all Tennesseans.

Position is 37.5 hours per week. Typical working hours are Monday - Friday from 8AM to 4:30PM CST.

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