Program Communications Specialist

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Gather, research, edit, write, and coordinate web content, printed newsletters, publications, procedures and training manuals for internal and external customers; ensure policy updates are accurate and timely; ensure timely distribution of materials, information and communications of events with the media, employees and community partners.
• Coordinate public relations and marketing projects and activities; maintain calendar of events; maintain distribution lists for program and web communications; plan, prepare, and participate in events such as orientation, training sessions, trade shows, conventions or other events.
• Draft and revise department printed materials or web content; consult with clients to ensure materials convey the intended message and tone, and that quantity, quality, and cost are within guidelines; photograph program events; process, stage, and archive photos.
• Scans local publications for program related news and maintain files; research and respond media information requests; create advertisement materials and place in local publications; identify, recruit and supervise volunteer resources.
• In addition to the above duties, the coordinator level will: create and lead the implementation of a department’s strategic communication project plans and procedures using web-based applications and other publishing tools; ensure plans are implemented as designed, within budget, and on time; manage organizational change, communications, and information flow; evaluate and select appropriate media and communication style for target audiences; assess communication plans and update according to feedback or evaluative data; contract with vendors for specific projects and services, and oversee vendor performance; oversee and maintain program web page structure, format, appearance, and content; provide professional communication and marketing services to program and project leaders; provide final review with content owner; represent the program to county departments, grant sources, and other organizations to secure resources and support.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

LEVEL AND TYPE OF WORK AND/OR SUPERVISION:

Program Communications Specialist

• Journey level
• Professional
• Perform the full range of duties, working independently, applying well-developed subject knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative.
• Receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise.
• Fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit.
• Work is reviewed based on compliance, appropriateness, and effectiveness in meeting goals and deadlines.
• Receive direction from manager or staff.
• May exercise functional and technical supervision over staff.

Program Communications Coordinator

• Advanced level
• Professional
• Perform the most difficult assignments requiring a higher level of responsibility, applying advanced subject knowledge, and exercising significant independent judgment and initiative.
• Receive work assignments in terms of objectives, priorities, and deadlines.
• Work is reviewed for technical accuracy, compliance to program objectives, and overall results.
• Receive direction from manager or staff.              
• May exercise functional and technical supervision over staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS GUIDELINES:

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. Requirements are determined at the time of recruitment based on responsibilities of the individual position and business needs of the department.

Program Communications Specialist

Training and experience for journey level, professional classifications are typically equivalent to a bachelor's degree and one (1) to four (4) years of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. (Equivalency 5-8 years of qualifying training and/or experience).

Program Communications Coordinator

Training and experience for advanced level, professional classifications are typically equivalent to a bachelor's degree and three (3) to six (6) years of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. (Equivalency 7-10 years of qualifying training and/or experience).

Depending upon assignment, candidates may be required to pass a criminal background check, have a valid driver license, and/or additional training, licenses, or certificates.