Communications Specialist

GENERAL PURPOSE The Communications Specialist position supports public communication by assisting with the development and implementation of communication plans and initiatives, serving as the primary contact for media, and acting as liaison between the County and the public. This position may be asked to foster internal communications between County departments and stakeholders. Key duties include writing press releases, managing social media content, coordinating press conferences, and responding to media inquiries. SUPERVISION RECEIVED This position reports directly to the County Executive. SUPERVISION EXERCISED This position is not responsible for the supervision of other employees. ESSENTIAL DUTIES OF THE POSITION Serves as the point of contact for news outlets as directed. Arranges interviews and assists County Executive with talking points. Writes and distributes press releases. Assists with the development and implementation of communication plans. Creates, schedules, and manages content for County social media platforms. Makes pertinent content changes to the County website. Creates materials such as newsletters and brochures. Assists with the preparation and dissemination of approved emergency information and statements during large-scale incidents or disasters. Fosters positive relationships with the community, civic organizations, and government agencies through attending events and consistent communication. Supports the Parks and Recreation Division in the marketing and promotion of County programs, events, recreational opportunities, and other initiatives through appropriate print, digital, social media, and public outreach efforts. Fosters positive relationships among County departments and employees using the employee e-newsletter, and County events. Coordinates communications and news related to Gracedale Nursing Home, with the Deputy Director of Continuum of Care, to ensure appropriate messaging and dissemination of information. Creates and edits a variety of written materials, including speeches, reports, and online newsletters for different audiences. Develops ideas and produces live videos on Substack and reels on Meta (Facebook and Instagram). *An employee assigned to this title shall perform a majority, but may not perform all, of the duties listed in this job description. Conversely, minor level duties performed on the job may not be listed. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE - Possession of a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field; AND Experience in public sector communications, public information, or public affairs, preferably at the County or municipal level; AND Employee assigned to this title will be required to possess and maintain a valid and current motor vehicle operator's license. Must have an acceptable driving record. Personal vehicle required for County business, employee is eligible for mileage reimbursement. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of the principles and practices involved in preparing news releases, articles, speeches, bulletins, reports, brochures, and other informational materials. Ability to evaluate and edit various subject matter materials critically from the standpoint of user interest, organization, context, accuracy, and style. Formulates strategies to publicize departmental activities, programs, and special events. Ability to assist with promotional and public outreach programs to improve customer and community relations. Encourages community participation in departmental activities. Coordinates the produ tion and dissemination of informational materials across print and digital platforms. Ability to communicate information regarding County operations, programs, and services clearly and accurately to the public and other audiences. Ability to assist and coordinate press conferences, radio and television interviews, and other media opportunities for County officials. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with key stakeholders, the public, local civic and business officials, news organizations, County employees, and other government agencies. Strong writing, editing, proofreading, grammar, punctuation, and written communication skills. Works collaboratively and creatively to support public relations efforts, functions of departments, and its related activities. Presents and maintains positive stories in the news media, including emerging social media or other online/digital marketing. Ability to exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive or time-sensitive information and to recognize matters that should be referred to supervisory staff or other appropriate County officials. Knowledge of and ability to effectively use social media platforms, website content management systems, and other digital communications tools. Ability to prioritize multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and communicate in a clear, concise, and professional manner. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT Telephone, computer (including word processing, spreadsheet, presentations, and other office productivity software), calculator, writing implements, fax machine, copy machine, paper shredder, mobile devices, digital cameras and/or video equipment, social media platforms, website content management systems, and other digital communications, graphic design, and office equipment software as required. PHYSICAL DEMANDS While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, stand, talk, hear, and use hands to operate office and communications equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds. The employee may be required to attend meetings, press conferences, community events, and other County-related activities at various locations. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. SELECTION GUIDELINES Formal application, rating of education and experience, interview, and reference check as well as job related tests may be required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.