PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST

Nashville Public Radio; North Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 52,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Energy Office (AEO) seeks a Public Information Specialist in North Little Rock to support public communications through research, writing, and media outreach.

You will assist senior staff with press releases, manage basic media inquiries, help organize events, and maintain media contact databases, contributing to transparent agency communications.

A bachelor's degree in communications or related field and one year PR experience are preferred; travel within Arkansas is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications or related field preferred.
• One year of experience in public relations, communications, or related area.
• Willingness to travel within Arkansas.

Responsibilities

• Assist in writing and editing press releases, fact sheets, and other materials.
• Monitor news coverage and track media mentions.
• Coordinate logistical arrangements for public events and outreach.
• Respond to basic media inquiries and route questions appropriately.
• Maintain databases of media contacts and PR resources.
• Support senior staff in preparing reports and communication plans.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Public relations

Media outreach

Team player

Organizational skills

MS Office

Social media

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications

Tools

MS Office

Social media platforms

Job description

PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST

Date: Aug 21, 2026

Req ID: 59351

Location: North Little Rock, AR, US, 72118

Category: DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137

Position Number: 22091061

County: Pulaski

Posting End Date: September 20, 2026

Job Series: Public Relations – Career-path

Classification: Public Information Specialist

Class Code: CPR07P

Pay Grade: SGS06

Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

Position Information

The Public Information Specialist is an entry‑level position responsible for supporting public communication efforts through research, writing, and media outreach. This position involves assisting more senior staff in the development of press releases, handling basic media inquiries, and helping to organize events and other public relations activities.

Primary Responsibilities

Assist in writing and editing press releases, fact sheets, and other communication materials. Monitor news coverage and assist in tracking media mentions. Coordinate logistical arrangements for public events, such as press conferences or outreach activities. Respond to basic media inquiries and direct questions to appropriate personnel. Assist in managing the agency’s social media presence by drafting posts and responding to inquiries. Support senior public information staff in preparing reports and communication plans. Maintain databases of media contacts and other public relations resources.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills. Basic understanding of public relations and media relations practices. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and social media platforms. Willingness to learn and develop in the field of public information.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field preferred. One year of experience in public relations, communications, or related area.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Arkansas Energy Office (AEO) Job Duties

• Research, interpret, and incorporate federal guidance in AEO policy
• Lead updating of forms used in Weatherization Assistance Program to align with policy and data reporting changes
• Lead subgrantee program monitoring, by desktop and on-site methods.
• Write monitoring reports and monitor corrective action plans.
• For invoices submitted, review completed weatherization jobs for compliance with program rules.
• Travel in Arkansas required.

Preferred Qualifications

• One year of experience in grants management.
• One year of experience as a team lead or supervisor.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market: Little Rock