Communications Specialist - Public Information

Weld County Government•Greeley, CO

14d•$31 - $40

About The Position

The Communications Specialist for the Weld County Communications and Public Information Department manages communication projects from planning through implementation and evaluates their measurable outcomes. The role develops public information initiatives and campaigns across multiple communication platforms for county departments and divisions, supporting their program goals as well as countywide communication and public engagement goals in the county strategic plan. The position reports to the county’s Public Information Officer, works directly with division directors and department heads, and supports the Weld County Board of Commissioners. The role helps build and maintain a positive public image of Weld County government by making information about county projects and policies strategic, accessible, and relatable. The position develops and coordinates strategic communication plans and related projects, including budgets where applicable, timelines, media purchases, and communication tools. It coordinates work among county divisions, departments, community organizations, and partners; advises county leaders; and measures and reports on communication outcomes. During emergencies, the specialist supports the Emergency Operations Center through the county’s Joint Information Center and Joint Information System, including monitoring public sentiment, preparing updates, responding to questions, and briefing staff. The specialist also writes and edits a broad range of public-facing and internal communications, handles media and public inquiries, supports public events and outreach, and coordinates production needs such as printing, promotional items, graphic design, video, photography, and videography. The role follows county policies and confidentiality requirements. It is non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and eligible for overtime pay.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, Strategic Communications, or a related field.
At least 2 years of professional experience in media, communications, journalism, or public relations.
At least 1 year of professional copy-editing experience.
At least 1 year of professional experience implementing AP Style.
Strong to expert proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Must pass a criminal background check before the employment start date.
Must pass the required pre-employment substance/drug screening; employment is contingent on passing it in accordance with Weld County policy.

Nice To Haves

At least 1 year of experience creating and managing website or page content for a professional organization.
At least 1 year of experience using social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, for a professional organization.
Experience with Adobe Premiere is beneficial.

Responsibilities

Recommend, conceptualize, write, design, implement, manage, and assess strategic communication plans for multiple county departments.
Coordinate communication project planning and execution, including applicable budgets, timelines, media purchases, and communication tools.
Coordinate work among county divisions, departments, community organizations, and partners.
Align communication and public participation initiatives with county mission goals, values, and brand priorities.
Advise department heads and division directors on communication strategies, projects, and goals.
Present opinions, insights, and recommendations to division directors, department heads, and elected officials.
Prepare proactive information for the Weld County Board of Commissioners and assist with responsive information as needed.
Set and achieve annual percentage-increase goals for communications projects, including e-newsletters, social media engagement, and program participation.
Track, compile, and analyze communication project data; report results and recommendations to division directors and department heads.
Serve as a subject matter expert in the county’s Joint Information Center and Joint Information System in support of the Emergency Operations Center during emergency events; maintain FEMA training and familiarity, perform assigned duties, monitor public sentiment, draft updates, respond to public and media questions, and provide briefings and updates to EOC staff and county commissioners.
Write and submit press releases, pitch stories, answer questions, and respond to media and public inquiries.
Monitor media stories and social media content to assess public sentiment and formulate responsive communication strategies.
Coordinate or schedule interviews at the request of the county Public Information Officer.
Build and maintain a professional network of reporters and media professionals in collaboration with team members.
Write and edit news releases, promotional copy, annual program reports, e-newsletters, blog posts, social media content, video or radio scripts, website updates, presentations, and handout materials.
Edit and revise written materials created by county officials and staff.
Create and gather materials for meetings and public events, including displays and signage.
Provide direction and context for communication, promotion, public education, engagement, and public relations work across county departments and county government.
Manage project processes, including printing needs, promotional item orders, and coordination with graphic design and video teams.
Assist with photography or videography projects as needed.
Work with the communications team to create messaging, proactive communications, and community outreach and engagement across social media channels.
Follow county policies and procedures, the Weld County Code of Conduct, and confidentiality and information-release guidelines.