External Affairs Manager - Nebraska Broadband Office
State of Nebraska

Description
The Nebraska Broadband Office located within the Department of Transportation (NDOT) is seeking an External Affairs Manager for our newly created Broadband Office. Under Governor Pillen's leadership, the Broadband Office was formed to create a more transparent, flexible, and proactive response for Nebraska's broadband needs.

At the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), we enhance the quality of life for all Nebraskans by creating innovative, convenient, and safe transportation systems that connect people and communities. Our culture is vibrant, and teammates feel valued as individuals and as part of our team. We hire good people who share our sense of pride and are excited to make a difference in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
• 13 paid holidays
• Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
• A culture that embraces work-life balance
• Military leave
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• 79% of employer-paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and development based on your career aspirations
• Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
• Employee Assistance Program
• Free parking

NDOT encourages applicants of all ages and experiences. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, as we believe that unique viewpoints and experiences bring a valuable perspective to our team.

Pay range for this position is $29.283 - $43.924. The pay rate is commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints. (Effective July 1, 2023, pay range will increase to $30.747 - $46.120).

Apply today using our quick apply process! Simply download your resume and the system will fill in the required information. At the end of the process, before submitting your application, please remember to attach your resume again, one more time. Thank you!
Examples of Work
• Research, continually assess, and recommend improvements for broadband policies; work with internal Broadband team to develop and promote innovative policy initiatives of critical importance to Nebraskans, especially the digitally disenfranchised, to bridge the digital divide.
• Manage federal broadband grant programs, including grant program development, outreach, and grant administration processes; ensure compliance with federal grant reporting and compliance procedures.
• In conjunction with NDOT staff, develop and manage the State's Broadband public relations strategy, lead state community outreach and public education activity.
• Manage and develop the Broadband Office's Outreach and Grants team.
• Work with stakeholders and Broadband team to develop innovation strategies to maximize impact of limited funding to facilitate broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas of Nebraska; promote broadband adoption in communities across the State.
Qualifications / Requirements
REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree in communications (such as public relations or journalism), general administration, project management, policy analysis/evaluation, engineering, or similar fields, and three years of experience in preparing and communicating information to the public; or coordinating advocacy groups or community-based organizations; or coordinating promotional/publicity campaigns; or interpreting and applying laws, rules, and regulations. Additional years of experience as described above may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year or equivalent basis.

PREFERRED:
• Five years of related experience to include demonstrated leadership experience and experience in leading multifaceted projects.
• Proven success in communicating program guidelines to a broad range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated collaborative approach to lead and influence internal and external partners.
• Previous grant administration experience.

OTHER: A valid driver's license or the ability to provide independent authorized transportation is required. Must be available for occasional overnight travel. Regular and reliable attendance is also required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Knowledge of grant management, budgeting, general accounting, and fiscal management practices.
• Ability to evaluate and establish a public relations strategy and plan.
• Ability to establish and implement policies, procedures, and management reporting and controls.
• Ability to work effectively and directly with multiple government agencies, clients, the public and private sector personnel.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, to a diverse range of audiences and settings.