POSITION TITLE: Communications Specialist/Public Relations
DEPARTMENT/LOCATION: Communications/Education Center
HOURS OF WORK/CALENDAR: 40+ hours/242 Calendar Days Yearly
STATUS: Classified Exempt, Full Time


POSITION SUMMARY:

The Communications Specialist position provides support to the communications team, school district and individual schools to deliver clear and concise messaging for internal and external audiences, in alignment with the OPS strategic plan. This position is responsible for producing compelling content that supports effective communication across multiple platforms including, but not limited to, website, social media, e-newsletters, the district's print magazine and multimedia production. The Communications Specialist assists with the development of and maintains district communications plans and ensures that district communication tools and channels are effective and current.


PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with the Communications Department for the purpose of creating effective and timely communication through a variety of communication vehicles.
• Maintain and develop weekly content for district social channels, website, e-newsletters, etc.
• Provide communications support to the district, schools, and communications team.
• Edit and proofread communication materials for accuracy, consistency, clarity and style.
• Coordinate production of print materials generated by the communications office.
• Assist with the planning and implementation of public relations initiatives.
• Photograph district events and activities for use in district materials.
• Develop messaging, talking points, speeches, newsletters, parent and community letters, video scripts, social media posts, templates for school use, and more, as assigned.
• Analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of communication efforts and make suggestions for improvement.
• Assist in the coordination of employee recognition awards.
• Maintain confidentiality of materials and information
• Support the communications team in meeting all goals and implementation tasks and perform other additional duties or tasks as designated by the supervisor.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism or related field.
• Minimum 2 years experience or equivalent training in communications required, experience in education/school PR preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent and compelling communications skills: written, interpersonal, small and large group, and mass communications.
• Self-motivated with a positive and professional attitude that adds to a positive and fun work culture.
• Ability to work both independently and cooperatively, exercise judgment and creativity, strong interpersonal skills, and skill to organize work, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent writing and scripting skills and the ability to effectively and succinctly present in writing the organization's position on issues that may be complex and controversial.
• Proficient at common software programs: MS Office, Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of "customer-centered" support and the ability to establish effective working relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated experience in current technologies used in communication, including graphic design, photography and photo editing.
• Strong knowledge of social media platforms and understanding of current trends.
• Flexibility to work with others in a variety of circumstances.
• Ability to maintain a high level of discretion and confidentiality regarding district and employee information.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bilingual (Spanish and English)
• Experience in public school or public employment setting

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires the performance of light work— Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. The position includes occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, some stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. The job is performed in generally hazard free environment and a clean atmosphere.

Important Employment Statements:

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. This document describes the position currently available. The District reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.
The Olathe Public Schools prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity in its programs, activities or employment as required by applicable federal and state laws.

CLEARANCES REQUIRED: Criminal Justice Fingerprint, Background Clearance, TB Test