Communications Specialist, Administration Department Job at Stearns County, MN

Stearns County, MN Saint Cloud, MN

Position Description

SALARY:
Hiring Range: $25.8009 – $30.8076/hourly
Full Range: $25.8009 - $37.8678/hourly
Grade 17, Non-Exempt Position, Non-Union

Our Mission: "Provide Exceptional Public Services to Assure a Safe, Healthy, Vibrant County for All"
Our Values: Professional | Approachable | Responsive | Collaborative | Fair & Equitable


Are you a motivated, driven, and organized person who enjoys public relations? In this NEW position, you will have an opportunity to use your communication and technology skills to work both independently and collaboratively to tell the story of County government and what programs and services we offer. In this fast-paced and exciting area of public service, you will work closely with program partners to develop and execute communication strategies that meet the needs of both internal and external customers. If this role appeals to you, apply today! Stearns County derives strength from the diversity of its workforce and provides a welcoming environment where all are respected, honored and valued.

Public service employees are provided a comprehensive benefit package, contributions to a public Pension Plan , and generous time off including paid Holidays, a paid time off plan, and flexible scheduling. See our Benefits Overview .


Closing Date
: Continuous Posting, applications accepted until the position is filled.

Position Objective
Under general supervision, plans, develops, and implements communications related to the area of assignment. Produces and coordinates dissemination of materials to inform the community about services and programs. Establishes and maintains community relationships and partnerships to assure good public relations, especially in times of crisis and emergency response. Recommends, coordinates and implements marketing communication projects that include public relations, special events, advertising, and creating brand awareness in alignment with the County’s mission and values.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

These examples do not include all possible responsibilities in this position and do not limit the assignment of related duties to this classification.

1. Develops a variety of internal and external written and other communications to include providing content and disseminating through print, digital, infographics, website updates, and social media channels ensuring accuracy, consistency, and positive brand image. Informs the public about county government and its programs/services.
2. Coordinates the creation, preparation, and distribution of agenda packets for Board of Commissioners meetings; ensuring all items are complete. Ensures meetings are conducted in accordance with public meeting laws. Reviews requests for County Board action for accuracy and consistency and confirms that related documentation is complete prior to approval.
3. Executes communications plans and strategies related to the area of assignment. Coordinates or integrates these communications plans as needed with other communications plans and priorities countywide.
4. Collaborates with Public Information Manager in broadcasting of County meetings on internet platforms.
5. Demonstrates and documents successful brand and visual identity, risk communications, media relations, and culturally sensitive and/or linguistically appropriate communications.
6. Serves as point of contact for Agenda Management System.
7. Interviews employees, stakeholders, and community partners to generate social media content for internal and external audiences.
8. Implements specific community engagement efforts and events to promote the area of assignment and the Stearns County brand.
9. Supports timely or urgent communications as needed to provide overall capacity and redundancy for the communications function.
10. Collaborates with committees on planning and participates in community events.
11. Provides assistance to individuals, businesses and government agencies regarding programs in the area of assignment.
12. Facilitates recruitment of members for County Board appointed boards and commissions.
13. Compiles and maintains databases for board and committee reports.
14. Attends work in a regular and timely manner.
15. Performs other duties as assigned or apparent.

Minimum Qualifications and Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Minimum Qualifications
In order to be considered for this position, applicants must possess the following:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in marketing, communication, education or related field and one year of experience, OR Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in marketing, communication, education or related field and five years of experience
  • Experience using Microsoft Office applications or a similar software
  • Valid Minnesota Driver’s License or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment
  • Reliable means of transportation to travel to multiple locations around Stearns County, some of which may not be accessible by public transportation

Preferred Experience Beyond Minimum Qualifications:

  • Media development experience
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
1. Knowledge of communication and public relations principles, practices, strategies and techniques.
2. Knowledge of risk communication principles.
3. Knowledge of emergency preparedness and Incident Command System principals.
4. Knowledge of programs in the area of assignment.
5. Skilled in verbal communication including presenting to a variety of audiences.
6. Skilled in the use of written, digital, and social media communications.
7. Skilled in website design, and other electronic and social media.
8. Skilled in the use of computers and technology including Microsoft Office Products, design applications, photo & video equipment and editing tools.
9. Skilled in interpersonal communication and relationships.
10. Skilled in editing and proofreading.

11. Ability to determine the most effective communication media, methods, or tools.
12. Ability to perform duties with minimal supervision and accept responsibility.
13. Ability to work in a group, with collaboration and inclusivity.
14. Ability to prioritize multiple requests and meet multiple deadlines.
15. Ability to write or edit in a variety of writing styles and on a wide range of topics.
16. Ability to work in a team environment and establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, customers and the general public.
17. Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and sound decision-making during routine and highly stressful situations.
18. Ability to be creative and decisive.

Accountabilities, Work Environment and Extent of Supervision or Guidance Provided

Accountabilities Shared By All Employees
1. Performs job responsibilities in a manner consistent with the County's mission and values.
2. Develops and maintains a thorough working knowledge of all department and County-wide policies, protocols and procedures that apply to the performance of this position.
3. Develops respectful and cooperative working relationships with co-workers.
4. Informs immediate supervisor of all important matters pertaining to assigned job responsibilities.
5. Seeks opportunities for further personal growth and development.
6. Represents the County in a professional manner to all internal and external contacts when doing the County's business.
7. Complies with all rules and policies in order to maintain a safe work environment.

Work Environment and Physical Demands
The primary responsibilities for this position will be performed approximately 100% of the time indoors. Will require travel to offsite locations and attendance at evening meetings. Will have infrequent exposure to health hazards and accidents; requires a low level of physical effort.

Extent of Supervision or Guidance Provided
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Assistant County Administrator.

Supervision of Others
None.

Responsibility for Public Contact
Frequent.

Hours of Work, Testing and Interview Dates

Hours of Work
This position has a normal work schedule of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; may include some hours outside of normal work hours on occasion. Potential to work hybrid location.

Interview Date
If you are selected to be interviewed for this position, interviews will be held on a date to be determined. Invitations to interview will be sent to the email address listed on the job application and will be based upon an assessment of education and experience.

If you require special accommodations to participate in the Stearns County hiring process, please contact us at 320-656-3606.




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