04065
(Competitive)
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
The work involves assisting in the performance of an informational and marketing program for a government agency. An employee in this class writes, edits, designs and disseminates materials that are timely, accurate and easily understood. An emphasis of the position is to prepare digital content for the agency website and to use social media and media platforms to promote the agency and provide information in a positive and appropriate manner. The incumbent works under the general supervision of the Public Information Specialist. Assignments are given with general instructions, which allow considerable leeway for independent judgment in designing, preparing, and carrying out tasks. Supervision is not a responsibility typically exercised, although the incumbent may direct the work of helpers. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES
Prepares news releases, newsletters, and copy for other publications.
Produces and participates in the distribution of various types of multi-media material.
Collaborates with staff and creative team to prepare or review digital content for website and social channel including articles, email content, video and images to engage the target audience and present the agency in a positive and appropriate manner.
Uses social media and digital platforms to amplify the branding and message of the organization
to new and existing audiences, and engages with online community.
Monitors the website in a proactive manner to ensure that information is accurate, content is current and pages are free of errors.
Reviews and edits media material prepared by staff before release to the public.
Writes, edits and reviews drafts and final copies of speeches, presentations and other communications.
Prepares and/gives oral presentations as needed.
Responds verbally and in writing to requests for information from individuals and groups.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Good knowledge of the principles and practices of public relations
Good knowledge of the techniques and practices of verbal and written communications
Good knowledge of writing style, vocabulary, spelling and grammar.
Good knowledge of newsletter design.
Working knowledge of media relations and practices (TV, radio and print media).
Working knowledge of computer applications for office operations, including word processing and spreadsheets.
Working knowledge of graphic design, video editing, and web development applications.
Working knowledge of online mediums and social networks.
Working knowledge of the functions, goals, and programs of the agency.
Ability to research and verify information.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and maintain working relationships with all staff, media personnel, government agencies, community groups and community organizations.
Ability to proofread written and graphic materials and edit the written work of others.
Ability to engage with online community on behalf of a brand.
Ability to carry out assignments independently.
Ability to use good judgment.
Tact and courtesy in dealing with staff and public.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s Degree, and one (1) year of professional level work experience, or its part time equivalent in marketing, journalism or communications; or,
Five (5) years of paraprofessional or professional level work experience, or its part time equivalent, two (2) years of which must have been professional level work experience in marketing, journalism or communications; or,
An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).
NOTE: Successful completion of graduate semester credit hours in marketing, journalism or communications or a closely related field from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university may be substituted for work experience as follows: Thirty (30) graduate semester hours is equivalent to one (1) year of work experience; Sixty (60) graduate semester credit hours is equivalent to two years of work experience.
Date Written 04/2016