Deputy Director - Public Affairs

The primary mission of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is to provide science-based environmental stewardship for the health and prosperity of all North Carolinians. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of North Carolina's environmental resources. The organization, which has offices from the mountains to the coast, administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and the public's health, and works to advance in all-of-the-above energy strategy that fits North Carolina's needs. DEQ also offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public and encourages responsible behavior with respect to the environment through education programs provided at DEQ facilities and through the state's school system. DEQ touches the lives of all North Carolinians in many ways to enhance and ensure our quality of life.

Important: This posting closes at 11:59:59 PM the night BEFORE the End Date above. 

The Office of Public Affairs is responsible for supporting the department’s initiatives and objectives through communications, outreach, and dissemination of information to the public in a professional manner. The office coordinates the department’s communications, public information and outreach efforts through interaction with residents and the news media, publication production, special events and public information programs and initiatives, and serves in an advisory position to the Secretary and senior management regarding a broad array of internal and external communications issues.

If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Visit www.studentaid.gov to learn more. 

This position currently qualifies for a hybrid telework option with routine office and remote workdays. The NC Department of Environmental Quality trusts our employees to be self-motivated and successful in hybrid/remote roles. Telework options are subject to change at the discretion of management. 

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Public Affairs, Media, Journalism, English or related field from an accredited institution and five years of experience in communications, public relations, or publicity work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

A valid driver's license is required for this position.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

hrrecruitment@deq.nc.gov