Public Information Officer 2

Schedule: Full-time

BWC’s core hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm, however, daily start/end times may vary based on operational need across BWC departments. Most positions perform work on-site at one of BWC’s seven offices across the state. BWC offers flex-time work schedules that allow an employee to start the day as early as 7:00am or as late as 8:30am. Flex-time schedules are based on operational need and require supervisor approval.

What You'll Be Doing:

Under the general supervision of the Chief of Communications, this position leads the development, planning, execution, and evaluation of strategic marketing and communications initiatives for the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). The role supports agency-wide priorities and provides comprehensive communications oversight to multiple divisions, including Employer Services, Special Investigations, Finance, and Investments. This position is responsible for managing cross-platform messaging, media relations, executive communications, stakeholder outreach, and the creation of high-quality content that informs, engages, and supports BWC’s diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications & Marketing

Develops, implements, and manages integrated communications and marketing strategies across BWC divisions.

Creates and executes communication plans supporting agency initiatives, programs, and operational priorities.

Ensures internal and external messaging is consistent, accurate, and aligned with BWC’s mission and values.

Content Creation & Distribution

Produces a wide range of communications materials, including brochures, handouts, news releases, talking points, website/online content, Hub articles, training materials, PowerPoints, video scripts, GovDelivery messages, and social media content.

Leads development and publication of the BWC Annual Report.

Produces, writes, edits, and coordinates video projects.

Media Relations & Public Information

Writes and disseminates press releases announcing agency updates, news, Board of Directors meetings, and rate changes.

Provides direct media relations support to the Chief of Communications; responds to media inquiries and coordinates media requests across divisions.

Communicates BWC policies and procedures to news media and association groups.

Plans and coordinates media events, press conferences, and public announcements.

Executive Communications

Writes speeches, talking points, stories, and articles for the Administrator/CEO and executive leadership.

Supports communications needs for speaking engagements, press opportunities, special initiatives, and major agency events.

Stakeholder Outreach & Engagement

Leads outreach to external stakeholders including employers, injured workers, trade associations, labor unions, chambers of commerce, and government entities.

Oversees development of social media strategy and alignment with broader agency communications.

Designs and monitors outreach metrics and reporting tools.

Project & Event Leadership

Leads communications, design, and outreach teams in developing informational materials and campaigns.

Participates in agency-wide events and special projects such as the Fallen Workers Memorial, Ohio Safety Congress, and the One Agency Celebration.

Ensures all communications projects are well-planned, timely, and impactful.

Supervision & Leadership

Supervises assigned staff, providing guidance, direction, workload management, performance oversight, and hiring support.

Consultation & Agency Representation

Advises the Chief of Communications on public relations strategies, media inquiries, marketing campaigns, and best practices across traditional and digital media.

Represents BWC Communications in multi-agency communication groups and statewide initiatives.

Supports strategic placement of advertisements and public education campaigns.

Additional Duties

Produces special written communications as needed.

Evaluates public information processes and supports administrative functions related to publications and services.

Travels to conferences and seminars to remain current on communications technologies, trends, and strategies.

To Qualify, You Must Clearly Demonstrate:

Required Experience and/or Education:

36 mos. exp. in field of journalism or communication dealing in public multi-media techniques & relations, public speaking, news writing, reporting & editing or technical report translation & communication dealing in public meetings; valid driver's license.

Or completion of undergraduate core program in journalism or communication AND 12 mos. exp. in public multi-media techniques & relations in field of journalism or communication AND valid driver's license.

Or 12 mos. exp. as Public Information Officer 1, 64421 AND valid driver's license.

Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above.

Job Skills: Communications

Major Worker Characteristics:

Knowledge of Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC), Divisional & Departmental policies & standard operating procedures*; public & human relations; journalism; communications; multi-media techniques; budgeting.

Skill in PC, typing, BWC software (e.g. Microsoft Office products) *.

Ability to deal with many variables & determine specific actions; prepare & deliver speeches to specialized audiences & general public; use proper research methods in gathering data; write &/or edit articles for publication; handle sensitive inquiries from & contacts with government officials, media contacts & members of the general public. developed after employment