Public Information Specialist (#RB0205)
$37.85-$46.01 Hourly / $6,560.53-$7,974.36 Monthly / $78,726.38-$95,692.41 Yearly

Under general direction, develops, organizes, coordinates and maintains a comprehensive public information, media relations and communication program for a large County department or agency to inform the public of activities and services of the department by disseminating  information through communication media; to advise and assist department management in public information activities; to respond to media requests for information; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.

An employee in this class is responsible for promoting and maintaining public relations for comprehensive Department-wide programs, services, or activities for a large County department or agency. The incumbent reports to a higher level management position that provides administrative oversight regarding the strategic plan, mission and public relations expectations of the department which includes promotions through radio, television, social media, press announcements, press releases and informational material.

• Plans, develops and implements a department’s public information program; closely coordinates with departmental management to disseminate information and increase public awareness regarding department services and programs.
• Researches, analyzes and develops department policies, procedures and other administrative matters related to the department’s public information program; determines their impact upon the department’s operations; recommends alternative methods, policies and procedures.
• Develops and maintains an outlet through radio, television, social media and the press for announcements and releases for assigned department; determines the need for public information and educational activities; prepares feature articles on departmental activities, services and programs.
• Plans, writes and coordinates speeches, press conferences, media-enhanced presentations or productions and departmental 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 department operations, programs and services.  
• Makes presentations before various groups to promote knowledge and understanding of department services.  
• Researches, designs, and prepares pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, and bulletins; prepares press releases, fact sheets and articles; prepares correspondence to public inquires on department programs/activities.  
• Maintain media logs, press files, publications and media coverage to enhance public’s understanding of department/agency functions.  
• Works collaboratively with department staff to review legislation and legislative bills relative to departmental functions; assists in drafting legislation for enhancing departmental objectives and shares that information with members of the legislative branch; provides resources, outreach and educational opportunities for departmental personnel, as well as the community, relating to the legislative process.  

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.

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.

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.