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Job Description
| PUBLIC RELATIONS & OUTREACH SPECIALIST |
Job Code: 2724
Pay Grade: 019
FLSA Status: Exempt
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| General Functions |
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This position is responsible for all internal and external communication efforts on behalf of Orange County Public Safety or Utilities Department; disseminating information to media outlets and citizens of Orange County. This position works closely with the Orange County’s Communications Division to ensure smooth media and public relations functions.
Work is performed with independence under the general direction of the Fire Chief, Corrections Chief or Utilities Section Manager based on assignment. Performance is evaluated through meetings, reports, observations and results achieved.
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| Representative Duties /Assignments |
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- Coordinates with the County’s Communications Division on the overall plan, coordination, organization and direction of all communication strategies and public information activities.
- Provides information to media outlets by generating news releases and coordinating media interviews. Serves as a proactive media liaison between the Department, and the public and news media.
- Establishes and maintains relationships with representatives from the community, Department management, employees and public interest groups.
- Provides oversight and appropriate responses for all internal and external communication efforts; prepares and distributes a variety of internal publications, notices and newsletter; serves as an editor for Orange Spiel articles.
- Engages in research, writing and other activities to provide analysis, recommendations and strategies on communication issues affecting the organization.
- Offers advice to the Senior Management team, management and supervisors on matters concerning the Department's public image.
- Provides media support during emergency activation; provides and coordinates communication efforts with Orange County Communications Division, Public Safety or Utilities Department, Emergency Operations Center and other local agencies.
- In accordance with relevant Florida statutes, plans public information programs, projects, seminars and presentations. Prepares news releases, media tip sheets, media event fact sheets and video presentations.
- Develops and implements policies and procedures to ensure efficient and responsive public communication.
- Monitors media reports and editorials pertaining to Public Safety or Utilities Departmental Programs and disseminates information to Senior Management.
- Provides general media and public relations training to Public Safety staff.
- Assists with ensuring the Department's website information is up to date and accurate, as well as responding to citizens questions related to the website.
- Responsible for assigning staff duties according to workload. Analyzes, resolves and assists staff in resolving work problems and conflicts. Reviews and evaluates staff's performance and provides guidance in the performance of tasks. Counsels and coaches staff as needed.
- Coordinates and manages facility tours.
- Responsible for capturing photographs for agency publications and special events when required.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
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| Minimum Qualifications |
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Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in Journalism, Communications, Public or Business Administration, Marketing or a closely related field and four years of experience in media relations to include one year of large project management experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
Experience communicating with the media, industry partners and internal and external clients. |
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| Preferences |
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Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including PowerPoint, Publisher; Adobe Acrobat Pro, PDF Creator, and have a basic understanding of computer graphics and video editing software; operate video and still photographic equipment.
Supervisory experience
Experience conducting on-camera television interviews
Public relations and communications experience in a public safety or utilities environment
Knowledge of Florida Law regarding public records
Possess and maintain a valid Florida Drivers License
Ability to work nights and weekends when necessary
Bilingual in Spanish (ability to read, write and translate)
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10/28/2016
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