Communications Director

Congresswoman Maxine Dexter; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 86,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Student loan repayment

Competitive benefits

Job summary

Congresswoman Maxine Dexter’s Washington, D.C. office seeks an experienced, creative Communications Director. You will set the communications agenda, shape the Congresswoman's public voice, and lead a small, talented team, collaborating closely with the Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, and District Director.

The role requires a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as necessary. This is a senior, high-visibility position in a fast-moving office that values advocacy through

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic communications leadership.
• Ability to manage a small team and work with senior staff.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Experience in political communications and public messaging.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a proactive communications strategy across earned media, franked communications, and social platforms.
• Draft floor speeches, press statements, op-eds, talking points, and social content in the Congresswoman's voice—daily and on deadline.
• Pitch and field press inquiries across TV, print, radio, and digital media; build relationships with reporters.
• Oversee the Congresswoman's franked communications program, including direct mail, digital advertising, mass texts, and monthly town halls; ensure compliance.
• Supervise and mentor a Digital Manager (D.C.) and a part-time Press Assistant (Portland); support video production and design as needed.

Skills

Senior leadership

Media relations

Strategic communications

Team management

Job description

Congresswoman Maxine Dexter is a physician, a founding member of the Democratic Doctors Caucus, and one of Congress's most committed voices on healthcare, climate, immigrant rights, and working families. Her office is seeking an experienced, creative, and strategic Communications Director in her Washington, D.C. office.

This is a senior role with real creative authority. You will set the communications agenda, shape the Congresswoman's public voice, manage a small and talented team, and be a key thought partner to the Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, and District Director. The ability to maintain a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as necessary—with the ability to flex time during slower periods is essential. Dexter’s Portland-based district is highly engaged, and her communications operation needs to match that energy. This is a fun office that moves fast, takes the work seriously, and believes that good communication is itself a form of advocacy.

This is not an entry-level position. Salary starts at $95,000 and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. The office also offers a competitive package of benefits (health insurance, student loan repayment, and more).

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a proactive, comprehensive communications strategy across earned media, franked communications, and social platforms.
• Draft and review floor speeches, press statements, op-eds, talking points, and social content in the Congresswoman's voice — daily, and often on deadline.
• Pitch and field press inquiries across TV, print, radio, and digital media; build and maintain strong relationships with local Oregon and national reporters.
• Manage the Congresswoman's franked communications program, including direct mail, digital advertising, mass texts, and monthly telephone town halls, ensuring full compliance with franking regulations.
• Oversee the Congresswoman's official website and newsletter program.
• Prepare the Congresswoman for press conferences and media appearances; and support field and legislative staff in preparing the Congresswoman for public events in their portfolios.
• Collaborate with legislative staff to translate bill introductions, legislative victories, and Floor activity into compelling public narratives.
• Proactively work with the District Office to publicize Oregon-based events including town halls and community conversations.
• Supervise and mentor a Digital Manager (D.C.) and part-time Press Assistant (Portland).
• Respond rapidly to breaking news at the national and district level.
• Monitor and engage emerging and new media platforms — including YouTube, Substack, and podcasts — identifying opportunities to expand the Congresswoman's reach and connect with audiences beyond traditional press.
• Support video production, graphic design, and photography — our Digital Manager leads on most content creation, but a CD who can backstop in a pinch is essential.

The office is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability, military status, marital or parental status. Women, people of color, and other members of traditionally underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.