Under general direction, develops, organizes, coordinates and maintains a comprehensive public information, media relations and communication program to inform the public of activities and services by disseminating information through communication media; to advise and assist County leadership in public information activities; to respond to media requests for information; and does related or other work as required.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
An employee in this class is responsible for promoting and maintaining public relations for comprehensive programs, services, or activities of the Board of Supervisors. The incumbent represents all members of the Board on non-campaign related activities, is supervised by the Chair of the Board, and may receive administrative direction from the Clerk of the Board or other higher-level staff. The position provides administrative oversight regarding the strategic plan, mission and public relations expectations which includes promotions through radio, television, social media, press announcements, press releases and informational material.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Plans, develops and implements a public information program; closely coordinates with management to disseminate information and increase public awareness regarding services and programs.
Researches, analyzes and develops policies, procedures and other administrative matters related to the public information program; determines their impact upon operations; recommends alternative methods, policies and procedures.
Develops and maintains an outlet through radio, television, social media and the press for announcements and releases; determines the need for public information and educational activities; prepares feature articles on activities, services and programs.
Plans, writes and coordinates speeches, press conferences, media-enhanced presentations or productions and public relations activities; coordinates radio and television appearances for personnel and assists in preparing materials for their use.
Evaluates the effectiveness of public information activities and stays abreast of issues affecting operations, programs and services.
Makes presentations before various groups to promote knowledge and understanding of services.
Researches, designs, and prepares pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, and bulletins; prepares press releases, fact sheets and articles; prepares correspondence to public inquires on programs/activities.
Maintain media logs, press files, publications and media coverage to enhance public’s understanding of County functions.
Works collaboratively with related staff to review legislation and legislative bills; assists in drafting legislation for enhancing objectives and shares that information with members of the legislative branch; provides resources, outreach and educational opportunities for personnel, as well as the community, relating to the legislative process.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from a four-year accredited college or university with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field.
Experience: Two years of experience in professional public relations, media relations, journalism, or community relations with responsibility for writing and placing news releases or featured articles through social, visual and written communications; which includes a minimum of one-year of experience providing information to the public in the capacity of a public relations spokesperson.
Substitution #1: Additional-qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years.
Substitution #2: A master’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field may be substituted for one year of the above-required general experience.
License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license
KNOWLEDGE
Principles of effective public information program components and methods involved in planning, coordinating and implementing such programs; principles and techniques of mass communication, marketing, media relations and outreach; public speaking, fundamentals and principles of public speaking, written composition, and editing; techniques in developing and producing audio-visual presentations; tools used in the design and development of public information materials; computer operations, including pertinent software and related equipment; web-based communications.
ABILITY
Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relations; speak effectively in public; maintain confidentiality of sensitive information; meet deadlines; use modern photographic and related electronic equipment; use computers, desk-top publishing applications, applicable presentation tools, and related equipment; act independently in converting complex information into meaningful format for the targeted audience.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility—frequent operation of a data entry device; repetitive motion; sitting for long periods, walking; occasional standing, pushing, pulling, bending, squatting; climbing stairs; occasional driving; Lifting—frequently 5 pounds or less; occasionally 5 to 30 pounds; Visual—constant good overall vision and reading/close-up work; frequent color perception and use of eye/hand coordination; occasional use of depth perception and peripheral vision; Hearing/Talking—frequent hearing of normal speech, hearing/talking on the telephone, talking in person and in public; Emotional/Psychological—decision making, concentration, public contact and public speaking; Special Requirements—may require working weekends, nights and holidays; occasional travel; Environmental—occasional exposure to varied weather conditions.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
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