Senior State Communications Specialist

The Senior State Communications Specialist researches, writes, and distributes materials for use by external and internal audiences to promote API's public messages and missions. Proactively engages with the media to promote the benefits of/defends the natural gas and oil industry and assists member company representatives with public relations issues as they arise. Finds and promotes opportunities to deliver API messages to strategic audiences by leveraging API's communications assets through earned and paid media. Engages and works with third parties and both non-traditional and traditional allies to promote API's strategic initiatives.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Develops public statements, talking points, strategic communications plans, and other advocacy materials as needed to promote API Colorado's strategic initiatives.
• Assists in rapid response efforts to ensure API's message is part of the issue conversation.
• Provides strategic counsel for communicating with the public and with policymakers.
• Assists in preparing spokespeople for interviews and appearances.
• Provides media relations counsel to API Colorado and API headquarters as needed.
• Develops issue management strategies and approaches to help meet communications objectives.
• Engages and works with grassroots organizations, coalitions, allied trade associations, non-traditional allies, etc. to promote API's strategic initiatives.

Key Relationships

• Maintains and builds rapport with media contacts, general public, and member company representatives in order to advance API's communications goals.

Qualifications

• Requires 3-5 years of experience in a public relations or related role and subject matter familiarity
• Bachelor's degree in relevant area, or other related field equivalent work experience
• Knowledge of policy issues, Congress, the Executive Branch, and political debate
• Talent for distilling complex issues into understandable and relevant messages
• Ability to work on a variety of topics under tight deadlines
• Ability to provide informed media counsel

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a stationary position working on a computer
• Move about the office to access office machinery, meeting rooms, etc. on occasion
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as printers and copy machines
• Transport items and equipment up to 10 lbs. on occasion

Travel Requirements

• Up to 25%

Percentage of travel time expected for the position, where the travel occurs, such as locally or in specific countries or states, and whether the travel is overnight.

This job outline describes the typical accountabilities and requirements of the position and should not be construed as an all-encompassing description of every duty performed by or expected of the incumbent.

EEO Statement

API is an equal opportunity employer, and diversity is a core value. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. Our success in maintaining a reputation for professional excellence depends on selecting the best-qualified candidates. Achieving this objective means that no employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, age, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including childbirth, related medical conditions, breastfeeding, and reproductive health decisions), genetic information, national origin, disability, marital status, personal appearance, family responsibilities, political affiliation, matriculation, credit information, the status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual offense, or any prohibited basis under federal, state or local law.

API is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to the Human Resources Department via email at .