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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Information SpecialistPage 1 of 2 City of Georgetown JOB DESCRIPTION Job Title: Public Information Specialist Effective Date: 10/1/2016 FLSA Category: Non-Exempt Revision Date: SUMMARY: Under general supervision, the Information Specialist is responsible for writing and editing news releases, articles, social media posts, video scripts, advertisements, and content on City websites; responding to and serving as spokesperson with the news media; and assisting in coordinating news conferences, ribbon cuttings, and similar events. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:  Works with Public Communications Department team and citywide Communications Team to develop and implement marketing and communication strategies.  Writes and edits news releases, newsletter articles, social media posts, video scripts, presentations, and speeches about City programs and initiatives.  Acts as lead writer and editor for City websites and social media sites; works with City departments to edit text, photos, navigation, and other elements on City websites.  Shoots and edits photographs and videos for City websites and social media sites.  Researches topics and conducts interviews to develop news releases and articles.  Assists in the coordination of news conferences, ribbon cuttings, and open house meetings.  Designs graphics for social media posts, advertisements, newsletters, and other materials.  Serves as spokesperson for the City of Georgetown with news media or the public.  Responds to news media requests and coordinates responses to media inquiries.  Speaks at neighborhood and community meetings and town hall events.  Assists in developing policies, best practices, and training efforts to guide and manage online and print communications across multiple platforms.  Develops and employs processes to track social media analytics and advertising reach. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field. Two (2) or more years of experience in news writing or public relations in a similar position. Experience may substitute for education up to four (4) years. Knowledge of:  Journalistic professional standards for news writing, still photography, and video.  Social media standards and best practices.  Principles of clear written and oral communication.  Media relations and community outreach principles. Page 2 of 2 Skill in:  Writing engaging and interesting news releases, social media posts, articles, scripts, reports, advertisements, and marketing materials.  Using social media and website analytics and assessing trends to use online and other communication platforms to effectively target audiences with key messages.  Speech-making, presentations, and small-group and interpersonal communication.  Researching and interviewing to collect accurate and relevant information for a story.  Creating graphics using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or similar programs.  Using WordPress or a similar website content management platform.  Prioritizing, organizing, and completing a range of tasks or projects.  Using still and video cameras and editing software such as Adobe Premier Pro or Photoshop.  Using Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to create articles, reports, and presentations.  Establishing and maintaining effective relationships with City employees, vendors, and the public.  Working effectively and efficiently without direct supervision.  Reading and comprehending City policies, budgets, goals, and programs. LICENSES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Valid Texas driver license PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT Office environment consisting mostly of desk/office work. Will require walking as well as lifting and/or carrying loads of up to 30 pounds. EQUIPMENT, MACHINES, TOOLS, AND WORK AIDS: Computer, still camera, video camera, smartphone, tablet, printer/copier, other office equipment.