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PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER I

COMMUNICATIONS REPRESENTATIVE

Recruitment #22-003236-0007

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Introduction


The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) is the state’s primary social service provider, serving over one million Marylanders annually.  The Department, through its 24 local departments of social services, aggressively pursues opportunities to assist people in economic need, provide preventive services, and protect vulnerable children and adults in each of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City.  DHS works in every community in Maryland to positively impact the lives of Marylanders. 

The closing date has been extended.  If you already applied, there is no need to reapply. 

GRADE

13

LOCATION OF POSITION

Department of Human Services
Communications Office
311 W. Saratoga Street
Baltimore, Maryland  21201

Main Purpose of Job

This position is responsible for writing social media posts as well as internal and external communications via a number of communication channels i.e., email, presentations, web posts, outreach materials, press releases, newsletters, ads., etc. The incumbent is this position manages monthly awareness campaigns that serve residents in the state of Maryland and executes communication strategies for a variety of the Department of Human Services (DHS) driven initiatives, including but not limited to: Child Protective Services, Foster Care, Food Supplement Program, Temporary Cash Assistance, Adoption, Refugee and Asylee Services, Adult and Elderly Services, Child Support Services and Workforce Opportunities. 

POSITION DUTIES

Writes social media posts; writes, reviews and edits marketing material; coordinates social media activities for the organization; secures social media re-posts by the Governor's Social Media Manager; works closely with DHS staff to gather information and photos for social media posts; coordinates with the Special Assistant to the Secretary on the Secretary's travel and speaking engagements; writes internal communications to ensure DHS employees are kept informed and motivated through several communication channels; drafts copy for outreach collateral by working closely with staff from a variety of Divisions including Local Department of Social Services to establish appropriate information and messaging for outreach materials that will resonate with the Maryland public; drafts monthly awareness communications (internal and external) to promote awareness; writes and issue press releases to protect, enhance or build DHS's reputation through the media; identifies opportunities to promote DHS activity, program, constituent and staff experience or DHS service via press releases and performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must meet all minimum (and selective) qualifications to be considered, and to appear on the list of people eligible for hire. Please read all requirements before applying.

Experience:  Six years of experience in public information, public relations, journalism or other related experience in publicity or promotional work.

Notes: 

1.  Candidates may substitute the possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 30 semester credit hours in one or more of the following subjects: English, journalism, public relations, writing or other similar and related areas of study and two years of experience in public information, public relations, journalism or other related experience in publicity or promotional work for the required experience. 

2.  Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in public affairs specialist classification or public affairs specialty codes in the information and arts field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.

The ideal applicant would possess:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in English, Communication or Journalism.

2. Three years of experience doing research on a wide range of subjects.

3. Two years of experience in writing or copywriting.

4. One year of experience using Google Works and Microsoft Office Word to compose and edit documents.

5. One year of experience with social media tools and websites.

6  One year of experience with content marketing strategies.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience as presented on your application and as they relate to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.  Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

For education obtained outside the U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service is required prior to hire.

It is imperative to list all computer and software experience on your application pertaining to your job duties.

BENEFITS

As an employee of the State of Maryland, you will have access to outstanding benefits, including: health insurance, dental, and vision plans offered at a low cost. CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR MORE DETAILS: STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS.

  • Personal Leave - new State employees are awarded six (6) personnel days annually (prorated based on start date).
  • Annual Leave - ten (10) days of accumulated annual leave per year.
  • Sick Leave - fifteen (15) days of accumulated sick leave per year.  
  • Parental Leave - up to sixty (60) days of paid parental leave upon the birth or adoption of a child.
  • Holidays - State employees also celebrate at least twelve (12) holidays per year.  
  • Pension - State employees earn credit towards a retirement pension.

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

The online application process is STRONGLY preferred. If you are unable to apply online, you may mail a paper application and supplemental questionnaire to, Department of Human Services, Examination Services Unit, 311 W. Saratoga Street, Room 135, Baltimore, Maryland 21201.

Or email latoura.jones@maryland.gov: Voice 410-767-8844, toll-free: 1-800-332-6347. 

If you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, at 410-767-4850 or Application.Help@maryland.gov. 

Do not submit unsolicited documentation.

TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay

As an equal opportunity employer Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. 

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country and encourage them to apply.




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