Communications Officer

Virginia Department of Social Services•Alexandria, VA

About The Position

This is the advanced level for Administrative Analysts that are responsible for analytical work on a variety of administrative or technical areas within the Local Departments of Social Services. This Administrative Analyst is distinguished from other administrative assistants by the performance of professional work while conducting special administrative projects that requires analyzing various issues, recommending actions, and managing projects. A Communications Officer performs internal communication and public information work for the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS). Work in this class involves writing, editing and designing brochures, flyers, news releases, reports and infographics; interviewing staff, clients and stakeholders for newsletter story development; assisting in multi-platform delivery of information and maintaining the Department website through use of a content management system. Work requires the exercise of creativity and independent judgment and is performed under the supervision of the Communications Manager.

Requirements

Considerable experience in communications, public relations, public information and graphic production or publications editing work, desktop graphic publishing
Some experience with writing and editing information for wide distribution under deadlines.
Completion of college-level courses in journalism, communications, multimedia production, public administration, government, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Considerable knowledge of administrative management principles and practices including planning, organizing, personnel and fiscal management.
Skills in operating a personal computer and the use of computer-driven word processing, spreadsheet, graphics and file maintenance programs.
Demonstrated ability to establish effective working relationships with staff, other agencies and the community.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in related field.
Four-year college degree in communications, journalism or related field.
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, business or related field supplemented with progressive administrative experience in business or public policy management OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Considerable experience in communications.
Some experience using desktop publishing software such as InDesign.

Responsibilities

Utilizes writing editing and interviewing skills to develop stories, brochures and other publications.
Utilizes graphic design skills to develop flyers and invitations for trainings and special events.
Writes news releases and coordinates responses to routine media inquiries.
Follows the City Style Guide, AP Style Guide and City policy in the production of materials.
Utilizes web sites, social media, newspapers, radio, television and other communication mediums to disseminate information about events and initiatives.
Tracks and coordinates work with members of the Department Communications Team and City Communications.
Coordinates and monitors the work of contractors involved in the production of information materials.
Assists in carrying out communication plans for initiatives, including meeting with staff, developing timelines and actions plans, researching similar ventures, identifying and involving key stakeholders, identifying target audiences, developing collaborative relationships within and outside the Department, and determining outcomes as needed.
Researches best practices, consults knowledge bases, updates skills, participates in special projects not directly related to own work, organizes photo/image and content files and maintains other resources.
Assists in maintaining the Department website by serving as webmaster. Develops, posts, updates and organizes information on the website through use of the Content Management System.
Serves on committees within the Department and the City.
Performs related work as required.