Public Information Specialist

Commonwealth Museum; Boston, Northern (MA, KY); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

The Secretary of the Commonwealth's office in Massachusetts is seeking a Public Information Specialist within the Citizen Information Service Division. The role handles citizen inquiries via telephone, email, and mail, promoting accessibility and responsiveness across state government.

Staff are cross-trained to support other divisions as needed. Key duties include handling high-volume inquiries, maintaining resource directories, researching designated topics, and managing correspondence under

Qualifications

• Excellent oral, written communication and comprehension
• Spanish speaker preferred
• Organize material in a clear, coherent manner
• Ability to handle many tasks simultaneously
• Capable of prioritizing
• Ability to absorb information quickly and communicate it clearly
• Cooperative attitude to facilitate a shared workload in a fast-paced office environment
• Aptitude for research necessary
• Interpersonal office and telephone skills
• High school diploma or GED

Responsibilities

• Answer high volume citizens’ telephone inquiries about state government promptly and courteously
• Keep and update information resource directories, files, and materials
• Research topics designated by the Director or supervisor
• Handle correspondence when assigned by the Director or Supervisor

Skills

Excellent communication

Spanish preferred

Multitasking

Research aptitude

Customer service mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The Secretary of State is seeking a candidate for a Public Information Specialist in the Citizen Information Service Division. This position is responsible for answering citizen inquiries via telephone, email and mail correspondence on all areas of state government. This position also assists in implementing the Secretary’s goal of making state government more accessible and responsive to the public. Every Specialist will be cross-trained in the operations of other divisions within the office to support them as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Answer high volume citizens’ telephone inquiries about state government promptly and courteously
• Keep and update information resource directories, files, and materials
• Research topics designated by the Director or supervisor
• Handle correspondence when assigned by the Director or Supervisor

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Familiarity or interest in state government structure, policies, procedures
• Desire to serve the public
• Function within a call center atmosphere
• Ability to use current computer platforms

Qualifications:

• Excellent oral, written communication and comprehension
• Spanish speaker preferred
• Organize material in a clear, coherent manner
• Ability to handle many tasks simultaneously
• Capable of prioritizing
• Ability to absorb information quickly and communicate it clearly
• Cooperative attitude to facilitate a shared work load in a fast-paced office environment
• Aptitude for research necessary
• Interpersonal office and telephone skills
• High school diploma or GED

About us

The Secretary of the Commonwealth's office comprises 23 departments across 19 locations around Massachusetts.

As the third-ranking constitutional officer in Massachusetts, the Secretary of the Commonwealth serves as the chief election officer, chief information officer, and chief securities regulator in Massachusetts. Additionally, the office is charged with registering business entities and lobbyists, distributing grants for historic preservation, safeguarding the state's public records and artifacts, and much more.

Whatever your background or area of interest, there is a place for you at the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office.

Statement of Diversity and Anti-Discrimination:

The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As a representative of the Commonwealth and its residents, the Office strives to ensure that those working in our office reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. The Office encourages applicants from a broad spectrum of backgrounds to apply for positions.

It is the policy of The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Disability Accommodation:

Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We will gladly assist applicants in need of an accommodation. For assistance, contact ADA Coordinator Rebecca Murray at 617-727-2832 or please contact [e-mail]

Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement for Employment:

As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.

This position is not eligible for remote work.

Total Compensation

As an employee of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are offered a great career opportunity to influence a wide spectrum of services to the diverse populations we serve - but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that you should consider towards your overall compensation, including:

• 75% state paid medical insurance premium
• Reasonable Dental and Vision Plans
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Assistance programs
• Low cost basic and optional life insurance
• Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
• 12 paid holidays per year and Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time
• Tuition benefits for employee at state colleges and universities
• Short-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options
• Incentive-based Wellness Programs
• Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program