Public Relations Specialist

Salary Range: ($52,226 – $68,207 - $84,148)Salary Grade: 17FLSA: Exempt

Purpose of Classification:

The purpose of this classification is to perform public relations work to promote programs & activities in an assigned department. Responsibilities are to develop and produce content in a variety of media formats & coordinating community outreach events.

Essential Functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Creates print and online content to publicize and promote department programs, facilities, events, or objectives; researches and verifies information; produces and publishes newsletters, calendars, brochures, and flyers; monitors and creates content for social media and department website; takes photographs for use in content; and writes or edits official department announcements, emails blasts, press releases, letters, or posts.

Plans, organizes, and staffs community outreach programs and events; arranges and conducts special events, contests, ribbon cuttings, facility tours, educational programs, and activities specific to assigned department; secures locations, dates, and sponsorship needed; prepares activities and materials; recruits and supervises event volunteers; and coordinates set-up, staffing, and implementation of program/event plans.

Represents department as a spokesperson; maintains relationships with community partners; attends community events, expos, or meetings on behalf of the department; responds to inquiries from the media or the public; and serves on committees to facilitate community outreach.

Provides data reporting related to department programs and activities; compiles data related to program participation, costs, and community feedback; conducts surveys to collect community input; tracks inquiries; and prepares reports.

Processes a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated timeframes and per established procedures; receives and reviews various documentation, reports, meeting minutes, and rough drafts of media content; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate; prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation, including written and visual content, press releases, brochures, posters, flyers, newsletters, and calendars; compiles data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintains computerized and/or hardcopy records.

Communicates with department staff, city officials, supervisor, other employees, schools, community groups, news media, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Liberal Arts, Public Relations, Communications, or related field required; two years of experience in public relations, communications, events management, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.

Supplemental Information for Preferred Candidates

Education and Professional Experience: Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a closely related field, with at least three (3) years of professional experience in public relations, communications, or marketing, preferably within local government or a public-sector organization.

Digital Communications and Social Media Management: Demonstrated experience managing organizational social media platforms, developing engaging digital content, implementing communication campaigns, and analyzing social media performance to increase public awareness and community engagement.

Media Relations and Strategic Communications: Experience developing press releases, media advisories, talking points, speeches, newsletters, and other public information materials. Ability to establish positive relationships with media outlets and effectively communicate organizational initiatives to diverse audiences.

Graphic Design, Photography, and Multimedia Production: Proficiency in graphic design and content creation software, such as Adobe Creative Suite and Canva, with demonstrated experience producing professional marketing materials, promotional videos, photography, and digital content consistent with organizational branding standards.

Community Engagement and Government Communications: Experience developing and implementing public information campaigns, promoting government programs and services, coordinating community outreach initiatives, and communicating effectively with elected officials, community stakeholders, and the general public