Public Communications Specialist I

City of Lancaster; Lancaster (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Lancaster seeks a Specialist I to develop and implement public information and community relations activities. You will prepare materials for dissemination, manage the City website, edit communications, and coordinate press conferences and events.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field and two years of relevant experience; photography, AV production, and desktop publishing skills are highly desirable. A portfolio is required with the application.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public administration, or a related field.
• Two years of progressively responsible work using computer programs/software, interacting with all levels of individuals, and handling multiple priorities; equivalent to six months of full-time experience as a public information intern in a public agency is highly desirable.
• Experience in photography with standard and digital equipment and make audio and/or audio-visual recordings; use desktop publishing, word processing, and graphics computer software applications with proficiency is highly desirable.
• Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the position may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Gather and compile information through research or personal interviews; prepare news releases, feature articles, and other materials for distribution to newspapers, magazines and other publications, edit informational materials received from other sources for use/release by the City, manage and keep current information on the City website.
• Plan and coordinate media press conferences and release of public information regarding policies, statistics, promotional and special events; assist media representatives covering City-sponsored events.
• Plan, schedule, and coordinate activities related to a variety of community events; organize and manage other special events, projects and programs as needed.
• Research, obtain and prepare materials for radio and television broadcasts, news stories, public service announcements, and related public information coverage.
• Video editing; take photographs for publications and audio-visual slide presentations; make audio and/or video recordings for news media or City use, write scripts for a variety of related presentations and maintain City photo archives.
• Plan, write, format, produce and/or coordinate production of a variety of City publications such as newsletters, reports, flyers, brochures, fact sheets, and bulletins.
• Prepare written, photographic, and other graphic and visual materials for use on the City’s website.
• Prepare speeches, manuals, reports, correspondence and maintain related files; respond orally and in writing to inquiries and complaints, as appropriate.
• Maintain media relations with internal media.
• Edit and proofread communications.
• Create and execute general and crisis communication plans.
• Manage press clippings.
• Build and maintain positive and effective working relationships with City employees, contract workers, public groups, agencies, school officials and media in the course of work using principles of good customer service.
• Perform related duties as required.

Skills

Problem Solving

Learning Agility

Handling Stress

Professional Integrity & Ethics

Safety Focus

Customer Focus

Informing

Teamwork

Valuing Diversity

Allocating Resources

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public administration, or related field

Job description

City of Lancaster seeks a Specialist I to develop and implement public information and community relations activities. You will prepare materials for dissemination, manage the City website, edit communications, and coordinate press conferences and events.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field and two years of relevant experience; photography, AV production, and desktop publishing skills are highly desirable. A portfolio is required with the application.