Overview

Communications creates and provides strategic communications to the Laboratory’s internal and external stakeholders and collaborators. It sets and implements a cohesive strategy to amplify the visibility of PNNL’s research and develops standards and efforts that communicate PNNL’s value proposition. In doing so, Communications enhances the Laboratory’s institutional reputation and science and technology agenda. Further, Communications drives employee-focused communications; leads media and outreach to external stakeholders; supports research through robust technical editing, formatting, and graphics support; and protects the Laboratory’s reputation through issues management and transparency with news media.

PNNL’s Communications organization comprises over 100 talented communications professionals committed to elevating PNNL’s reputation, inspiring action, and engaging audiences by transforming the Lab’s science into influential communications and compelling stories.

Responsibilities

Position Overview

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking an exceptional leader to join our organization as Director of Internal Communications & Mission Support (ICMS). This pivotal leadership role will report directly to the Chief Communications Officer and lead a diverse team of communications professionals responsible for creating an integrated, strategic communications ecosystem that drives clarity, engagement, and mission success across PNNL. Your team encompasses both enterprise-wide internal communications and dedicated communications specialists embedded within mission support organizations, working together to transform how PNNL connects with its 6,000+ staff members.

The Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for a transformational leader who thrives in complex environments and can balance strategic vision with tactical execution. You should be equally comfortable developing high-level communications strategy and rolling up your sleeves to resolve immediate team challenges. Your leadership style should emphasize clarity, empathy, and accountability.

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• A balanced approach to addressing immediate team concerns while building for the future
• Strong emotional intelligence and ability to navigate team dynamics during change
• Decisive problem-solving skills with a focus on sustainable solutions
• Excellent prioritization abilities and resource management
• A collaborative mindset that fosters partnership across organizational boundaries

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Transformation

• Lead and develop a multifaceted team of communications professionals structured into Enterprise Communications and Directorate Support teams; provide mentorship, professional development, and performance management
• Implement the ICMS vision through strategic integration that enables clear, compelling communication connecting staff to our mission
• Manage team resources effectively, addressing current workload challenges and establishing sustainable practices
• Build strong partnerships with directorate stakeholders, executive leadership, and cross-functional teams
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executives and directors, helping them effectively communicate organizational changes, strategic initiatives, and critical information

Strategic Communications

• Design and implement a comprehensive internal communications strategy with shared editorial calendars, joint campaign development, and coordinated message timing
• Establish and maintain governance mechanisms including monthly all-communicator forums, weekly coordination meetings, quarterly planning sessions, and annual strategy refreshes
• Implement measurable outcomes and analytics to demonstrate value and drive continuous improvement
• Create balanced approaches that maintain enterprise alignment while respecting directorate autonomy and identity
• Transform PNNL’s digital workplace through channel governance and optimization that reaches staff effectively while reducing information overload
• Lead crisis communications planning and execution for internal audiences, ensuring timely, transparent information-sharing

Organizational Development

• Transform team structure and processes to enhance performance and reduce resistance to change
• Establish effective governance and coordination mechanisms between enterprise and directorate communications
• Create systems for cross-team collaboration that strengthen collective impact and resource optimization
• Develop a culture of innovation, adaptability, and excellence in communication delivery
• Create opportunities for two-way communication and staff feedback that prioritizes the employee experience
• Implement best practices for engaging a hybrid workforce, with specific strategies for reaching remote, onsite, and field-based employees

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.