Media & Public Relations Specialist - Information Specialist IV

Job Description

Only applicants who apply with a State of Texas application via the CAPPS online application system will be considered for this position. First time applicants will need to create an account in the CAPPS online application system at https://tinyurl.com/CAPPS-Explore-Jobs. Please visit our job opportunities page at https://tinyurl.com/How-to-Apply-in-CAPPS for more information about the Texas Water Development Board and answers to frequently asked questions. To view this position in greater detail, visit the CAPPS online application system.

Texas Water Development Board’s Mission - Leading the state’s efforts in ensuring a secure water future for Texas.

The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) offers competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, and flexible work alternatives so you can have a work/life balance! For more information about these benefits and more visit http://www.twdb.texas.gov/jobs/benefits.asp.

The Texas Water Development Board does not discriminate on basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, or disability in employment or provision of services, programs, or activities. 

*To be considered for this position, the applicant MUST submit (1) one press release sample written by the applicant and (2) two writing samples of the applicant's choice, such as a published article or media pitch. Samples should demonstrate the scope of writing abilities.*

**Must meet agency in-office requirements**

***Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications***

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Texas Water Development Board is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented communicator who will be dedicated to sharing the stories of our state's most important resource: water.

Performs advanced (senior-level) informational and communication work. Work involves coordinating and executing research, writing, editing, and distribution of information and materials for release to news media and for use by the agency, the public, and other agencies. Serves as a primary agency liaison with media. May train others. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the Chief Communications Officer of the Agency Communications Division.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Serves as a primary agency liaison with media and coordinates media interviews.
• Researches and identifies story ideas, angles, and relevant media to proactively pitch.
• Writes and distributes press releases, media advisories, and email blasts.
• Develops talking points and media interview materials.
• Advises senior management and staff on news issues.
• Coordinates and conducts staff media training.
• Develops and executes media plans for meetings, conferences, and agency initiatives.
• Coordinates and executes press conferences.
• Builds and maintains relationships with media.
• Manages agency media lists.
• Compiles daily news clips and distributes to TWDB staff.
• Writes and edits other agency materials as needed, including articles for the Texas Water Newsroom.
• Develops, coordinates, and distributes internal and external newsletters and manages stakeholder distribution.
• Develops, posts, and manages some website content.
• Ensures individual and team files (electronic and hard versions) are appropriately maintained and timely disposed of in accordance with the agency's records retention procedures and schedule.
• Maintains required certifications and licenses and meets the continuing education needs and requirements of the position to include, attending mandatory training courses.
• May be required to operate a state or personal vehicle for business purposes.
• Performs other duties as assigned.     

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, English, or a related field.
• Seven years of relevant work experience in media relations.
• Experience writing press releases, articles, and other materials.
• Writing samples required upon applying for this position.
• Relevant education and experience can be substituted for each other on a year-for-year basis.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• More than seven years of experience in media relations.
• Experience pitching story ideas to the media.
• Experience coordinating and conducting media training.
• Certification from an accredited professional organization, such as the Public Relations Society of America.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the Agency Communications Division.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
• Knowledge of news and communication media.
• Knowledge of social media platforms and trends.
• Knowledge and master of grammar, style, and usage guidelines.
• Skills in using Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and Access.
• Skills in use of internet, email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.
• Skills in attention to detail and accuracy.
• Skills in using Adobe Creative Suite.
• Skills in oral and written communication.
• Skills in pitching news media through oral and written communication.
• Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure within Texas.
• Ability to meet agency in-office requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to adhere to work schedules, follow procedures with respect to leave, and submit accurate timesheets by prescribed deadlines.
• Ability to make mature, objective decisions and identify areas of potential problems.
• Ability to perform effectively and willingly when changes occur in scope and nature of the work and work environment.
• Ability to perform routine and non-routine work assignments accurately and on time with little or no supervision.
• Ability to perform assigned duties and improve work habits and/or output.
• Ability to complete assigned work on time, neatly, and with infrequent errors.
• Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Ability to provide prompt, courteous, and accurate assistance and clear and concise communication to internal and external stakeholders both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work and cooperate with others in a team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to stand/sit/move to perform activities, such as retrieve/replace files in a large file system for boxes up to 30 lbs.
• Ability and willingness to travel 25% of the time, primarily within the state of Texas.
• Ability to operate a vehicle (state or personal) for state business and maintain a driver's license and driving record that complies with state and agency requirements.
• Ability to work shifts that may occasionally exceed 8 hours a day, including early mornings, nights, and weekends.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to work with senior management.

Additional Information

All interested candidates should apply with a State of Texas application via the CAPPS online application system. First time applicants will need to create an account in the CAPPS online application system at https://tinyurl.com/CAPPS-Explore-Jobs. Please visit our job opportunities page at https://tinyurl.com/How-to-Apply-in-CAPPS for more information about the Texas Water Development Board and answers to frequently asked questions. To view this position in greater detail, visit the CAPPS online application system.

Texas Water Development Board, Stephen F. Austin Building

1700 North Congress Ave., Room 670, Austin, Texas 78701

Please contact Human Resources for accommodation requests.

Phone: (512) 475-2142

Email: HR(AT)twdb.texas.gov

Compensation: 6000 to 6000 (USD) (MONTHLY)