Director – Communications & Public Affairs
Chelan County Public Utility District (Chelan PUD)
Chelan Public Utility District is seeking an experienced Director of Communications & Public Affairs to lead how we inform, engage, and build trust with our customer-owners, communities, and public partners.
This role provides strategic leadership for District communications, public affairs, government and regulatory relations, and community engagement. The Director serves as a key advisor to the Board of Commissioners and executive leadership, ensuring clear, transparent, and consistent communication in support of Chelan PUD’s public mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead District-wide communications, public affairs, marketing, branding, visitor services, and alignment of wildfire program strategy.
- Advise the Board of Commissioners and senior leadership on public messaging, policy positions, and stakeholder engagement.
- Direct government and regulatory affairs activities; support effective coordination with local, state, federal, and tribal partners.
- Develop and implement communication strategies supporting strategic initiatives, infrastructure projects, and organizational change.
- Serve as a public spokesperson and guide leaders in media and public engagement.
- Lead and develop teams; foster collaboration and alignment across the organization.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Political Science, Public Administration, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in public affairs, communications, government relations, or related leadership roles.
- Strong written, verbal, and public-speaking skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with elected officials, regulatory agencies, and diverse stakeholders.
- Supervisory experience preferred, public sector or utility experience highly desirable.
Starting salary range is $176,640 - $220,800 (based on qualifications). With tenure and strong performance in this role an employee may earn up to a maximum of $264,960, annualized.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits which include zero cost employer funded medical, dental, and vision healthcare benefits, access to the employee assistance program, a VEBA health reimbursement account, and long-term care. Washington state retirement PERS participation and optional 457 plan participation with an employer matching 401(a) plan. Leave, life & disability benefits including paid leave starting at 27 days per calendar year up to 35 with tenure, 12 paid holidays per calendar year, paid jury duty, short-term disability & long-term disability, and basic life, AD&D, and optional voluntary life.
The work life benefits include optional flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, educational assistance, various rewards and recognition programs and position specific stipends.
For more explanation of the district benefits please visit our benefits website www.mychelanpudbenefits.org.
Why Chelan PUD
Chelan PUD is a customer-owned public utility guided by the values of safety, stewardship, trust, operational excellence, and courage. This role offers the opportunity to serve the public interest while helping shape the voice and direction of a complex, community-focused organization.
Chelan PUD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of the organization.
