Job Description
Department of Education JC-517483 Communications Director DIVISION DIRECTOR $15,551.00 - $16,819.00 per Month New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable. Final Filing Date: 5/18/2026 Application Methods: Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account) By Mail Drop-off Job Description and Duties The California Department of Education is seeking a Communications Director to serve in a critical leadership role shaping and advancing the Department’s statewide communications strategy. This position plays a pivotal role in defining how public education is communicated across California, reaching nearly six million students, thousands of schools, and a broad network of educators, families, policymakers, and community partners. Under the general direction of the Chief Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction/Chief of Staff, the Communications Director serves as the principal advisor on all internal and external communications for the Department. This role leads the development and execution of strategic communications that advance statewide education priorities, including public school programs, equity initiatives, and student success outcomes. The Communications Director oversees media relations, public information, digital communications, and executive messaging, ensuring that information is accurate, transparent, timely, and effectively tailored to diverse audiences across California. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned communications leader to shape statewide dialogue on public education, lead through complex and high-profile issues, and advance communications strategies that support California’s commitment to educational excellence, equity, and opportunity for all students. Working Conditions TELEWORK OPTION HYBRID This position is headquartered in Sacramento and may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule for eligible applicants residing in California. Currently, the hybrid telework schedule includes working remotely and working a minimum of 2 days per week in the office. Position Details Job Code #: JC-517483 Position #(s): 174-410-9681-002 Working Title: Communications Director Classification: DIVISION DIRECTOR $15,551.00 - $16,819.00 New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable. # of Positions: 1 Work Location: Sacramento County Telework: Hybrid Job Type: Exempt Executive Assignment - Non Tenured, Full Time Facility: Communications & Engagement Department Information The California Department of Education (CDE) oversees the state's diverse and dynamic public school system, which is responsible for the education of nearly six million children and young adults, thousands of schools, and a broad network of educators, families, policymakers, and community partners. The CDE and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction are responsible for enforcing education law and regulations; and for continuing to reform and improve public elementary school programs, secondary school programs, adult education, some preschool programs, and childcare programs. The CDE's mission is to provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The CDE serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners, preparing students to live, work, and thrive in a highly connected world. http://www.cde.ca.gov/ Special Requirements All applicants are required to apply on the Governor's website in order to be considered: Division Director Application Instructions Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application. Final Filing Date: 5/18/2026 Who May Apply This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the a