Public Information Specialist

Summary of Duties Thurston County Board of County Commissioners is looking for a highly motivated individual to fill the Public Information Specialist position.
The primary duties and responsibilities include working closely with the Board of County Commissioners, County Manager, Elected Officials, and/or department directors, provides advice and guidance on communication and public relations for internal and external subjects.
This 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.
Additional responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following: 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.
Develops and disseminates strategic communication and public information materials to build a positive awareness of County programs.
Develops public information strategies for County programs based on internal and external communications needs of the program.
Plans, develops and produces written materials including fact sheets, displays, slide programs, brochures and other educational and promotional materials related to County programs.
Coordinate with Commissioners, Commissioners' Office staff, department heads, 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.
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.
Supervises the production of graphic materials; explains desired typography, illustrations, layouts, and other requirements to printers and other consultants.
Develops and maintains an effective, positive working relationship with interest groups, public agencies, and the general public.
Communications internally and externally in times of emergency or natural disasters.
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 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, relative themes on any given issue, 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 Questions about this position? The contact person for this recruitment is Meghan Porter, 360-490-0562 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