Public Information Specialist

This listing closes on 10/30/2015 at 5:00 PM Pacific Time (US & Canada); Tijuana.

Salary

$4,611.00 – $6,148.00 Monthly

Location  

Thurston County, WA

Job Type

Regular Full-Time Employee

Department

Commissioners

Job Number

03-R-00778

Closing date and time

10/30/2015 at 5:00 PM Pacific Time (US & Canada); Tijuana

Summary of Duties
Thurston County is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual for the position of Public Information Specialist.

This individual will be working closely with the Board of County Commissioners, County Manager, Elected Officials, and/or department directors, providing advice and guidance on communication and public relations for internal and external subjects. The work requires knowledge of and ability to apply the principles of visual design; knowledge of the technical characteristics associated with various methods of visual display; and the ability to present subject matter information in a visual form that will convey the intended message to, or have the desired effect on the intended audience.  In addition, the Public Information Specialist develops and disseminates strategic communication and public information materials to build a positive awareness of County programs.

Other areas of responsibility may include, but are not limited to the following:
  • May serve as liaison with news media and the general public, as assigned on specific projects. Builds strong working relationships with local media. Researches, discusses strategic plans with management, and, when assigned, responds to media inquiries.
  • Communications internally and externally in times of emergency or natural disasters.
  • Develops social media strategies and produces content (text, photo and video). Researches and recommends new forms of social media and seeks opportunities to promote County activities through approved and established county social media outlets.
  • Coordinate with Commissioners, Commissioners’ Office staff, department heads and division and program managers on visual products and information that accompanies speaking engagements, forums, workshops, meetings, and open houses; assist with design and production of associated promotional materials for those public meetings and events in a manner facilitating a positive contact with Thurston County. Working closely with management, produces talking points, speeches, fact sheets, brochures, and other education and outreach materials.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field.
  • Three years of professional experience in public relations, communications, marketing, journalism or related field is required.
  • Current Washington State Driver’s License or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Expression Web, PowerPoint and all Microsoft Office Programs.
  • Familiar with Social Media and the use of other various mediums used to communicate both internally and externally.
Desired Skills
The ideal candidate will also possess the following knowledge, abilities and skills:

  • Extensive web experience, including but not limited to work with the various social media platforms.
  • Ability to take communication points and complex technical information and convert them into desired products and practical application.
  • Ability to write, edit and simplify messages from all parts of county government.
  • Ability to quickly and proactively develop talking points and relative themes on any given issue, and recognize and address problems prior to escalation into larger areas of concern.
  • Ability to conceptualize and design effective publications and public information materials.
  • Knowledge of public policy and decision making processes.
  • Ability to conduct opinion surveys.
  • A solid understanding of video production; computer, graphic art or photography capability is desirable.
Other Position Related Information
Contact Person:  Nadine Sordahl (360) 786-5451

This position is:
– NOT Represented by a Union
– NOT Eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
– Eligible for benefits

Items required for consideration:
– Application
– Letter of Interest
– Resume
– Writing Sample of your choosing

Agency
Thurston County
Phone
(360) 786-5498
Website
http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/hr/index.htm
Address
Thurston County

Olympia, Washington, 98502.