Communications Strategist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Communications Strategist

🔹 Company: DTE Energy

🔹 Location: Detroit, Michigan, United States

🔹 Job Type: Hybrid (On-site periodically)

🔹 Category: Communications

🔹 Date Posted: May 9, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)

🔹 Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing strategic communication plans to align with business goals
• Producing communication products for internal and external audiences
• Managing multiple projects and ensuring budget compliance
• Providing communication counsel to senior leaders and business partners
• Building and maintaining relationships with media contacts

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, project management, and strong communication skills. It involves working closely with various stakeholders and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Provides strategic communication counseling to business partners based on communication expertise and understanding of business unit and enterprise goals.

✅ Ensures all internal and external communications are integrated and aligned with business strategy.

✅ Develops and maintains relationships with media contacts to establish an ongoing communications path for company issues, development, products, and services.

✅ Provides internal and external communication counsel and support to senior leader(s) within the business unit.

✅ Manages and is accountable for communication projects from inception to completion, operating with substantial latitude for un-reviewed actions and decisions.

✅ Manages multiple projects with supervision, ensuring budget compliance and achievement of strategic communication objectives.

✅ Provides input to annual communication strategy.

✅ Researches topics and produces corresponding written communication.

✅ Fosters teamwork within departments and cross-functional teams.

✅ Ensures appropriate research analysis and continuous improvement efforts are undertaken to measure and improve communication impact within own discipline.

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, project management, and day-to-day communication tasks. It requires strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree

Experience: 3+ years of related experience

Required Skills:

• Proficient written and oral communications
• Ability to manage multiple project deadlines, special events, and crisis communications
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams and perform multiple, concurrent project work to achieve team goals and objectives
• Ability to work independently and under tight deadlines

Preferred Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Business Administration, or related discipline

ASSUMPTION: While a degree in a related field is preferred, candidates with relevant experience and strong communication skills may also be considered.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 (Based on industry standards for a mid-level communications role in Detroit)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts and wellness programs

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. May require occasional evening or weekend work for events or crises.

ASSUMPTION: Salary range is estimated based on industry standards and the company's size. Benefits are based on the company's standard benefits package for full-time employees.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Utilities. DTE Energy is one of the largest diversified energy companies in the United States, providing electric and gas services to approximately 3 million customers in Southeast Michigan.

Company Size: 10,001+ employees. As a large corporation, DTE Energy offers a wide range of career opportunities and resources for professional development.

Founded: 1903. DTE Energy has a long history of providing energy services and has evolved to include a diverse portfolio of businesses.

Company Description:

• DTE Energy is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy to its customers
• The company is focused on sustainability and reducing its environmental impact
• DTE Energy values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance

Company Specialties:

• Electric and gas utilities
• Renewable energy and energy services
• Power generation and distribution

Company Website: http://www.dteenergy.com

ASSUMPTION: DTE Energy is a well-established company with a strong reputation in the energy industry. It offers a range of benefits and opportunities for professional growth.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level. This role is suitable for candidates with 2-5 years of experience in communications or a related field.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Manager of Communications within the respective business unit.

Work Arrangement: Hybrid. This role requires periodic on-site presence and the ability to commute to the assigned work location.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential advancement to a senior communications role within the business unit
• Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and gain exposure to senior leadership
• Access to professional development and training opportunities

ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for career growth and development within the communications department and the broader organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate headquarters. The Communications Strategist role is based at DTE Energy's corporate headquarters in Detroit, Michigan.

Office Location(s): One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48202, US

Geographic Context:

• Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and the seat of Wayne County
• The city is known for its rich history in music, automotive industry, and sports
• Detroit offers a range of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and parks

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. May require occasional evening or weekend work for events or crises.

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at DTE Energy's corporate headquarters is professional and collaborative, with a focus on teamwork and open communication.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application and resume submission
• Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
• In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and other team members
• Final interview with the director of communications
• Background check and offer extension

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Project management and organizational skills
• Creativity and strategic thinking
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare a cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the role and your fit for the company
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with crisis communications and managing multiple projects

ATS Keywords: Strategic Communication, Project Management, Media Relations, Crisis Communications, Written Communication, Oral Communication, Teamwork, Research, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Budget Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Communication Strategy, Internal Communication, External Communication, Analytical Skills, Time Management

ASSUMPTION: The application process at DTE Energy is competitive, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their skills and experience throughout the interview process.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)
• CMS and design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress)

ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies required for this role may vary depending on the business unit and the projects being worked on.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Safety
• Integrity
• Excellence
• Teamwork
• Respect

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Focused on results and continuous improvement
• Adaptable and responsive to change

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you have a proven track record of developing and executing strategic communication plans?
• Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and managing multiple projects simultaneously?
• Do you thrive in a collaborative work environment and enjoy working with diverse teams?

ASSUMPTION: DTE Energy values candidates who align with their core values and are able to thrive in a collaborative, results-driven work environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent changes and priorities
• Dealing with sensitive or controversial topics and managing stakeholder expectations
• Occasional evening or weekend work for events or crises

ASSUMPTION: These challenges are common to roles in strategic communications and can be managed effectively with strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a focus on results.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to a Communications Coordinator role, this position requires more strategic thinking and project management skills
• Compared to a Communications Manager role, this position has less supervisory responsibility and focuses more on tactical execution
• Career path progression could lead to a Senior Communications Manager or Director of Communications role

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of strategic planning, project management, and tactical execution, making it an attractive opportunity for mid-level communications professionals.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive communication plan for a major company initiative
• Managing a crisis communication response to a significant event or incident
• Creating and distributing internal and external communication materials to support a business unit's goals and objectives

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the range of responsibilities and the strategic nature of the role.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe a typical day or week in this role?
• How does this role support the business unit's goals and objectives?
• What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare for them?
• How does this role collaborate with other departments and teams within the organization?
• What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the communications department and the broader organization?

ASSUMPTION: These questions demonstrate your interest in the role and provide insight into the day-to-day responsibilities and growth opportunities.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare a cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the role and your fit for the company
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with crisis communications and managing multiple projects
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.