Communications Specialist

Bernalillo County•Albuquerque, NM

2d•$54,018 - $85,363•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Specialist supports strategic communications for the County by conducting research, developing content, and assisting with communication activities, audience analysis, messaging, and use of communication channels and emerging technologies. The position works with departments and organizational functions to help develop clear and consistent communications that support public understanding and County priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
Two (2) years related work experience in public information.
Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience may be considered for the above requirements.
Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
Adherence to all County safety guidelines.
Complete all FEMA training(s) assigned to this position.
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver’s license by the date of hire and maintenance of a valid license while employed in this position.
Complete required supervisor training, if applicable.

Nice To Haves

Spanish/English bilingual proficiency preferred.

Responsibilities

Supports communications plans and public awareness campaigns by researching audiences, objectives, key messages, communication channels, resources, and measures of success.
Coordinates clear, accurate, and accessible communications, including news releases, media advisories, talking points, speeches, publications, newsletters, social media, video scripts, and other content.
Reviews complex County programs, policies, services, and priorities and develops clear, audience-focused information that supports public understanding and engagement.
Conducts research and gathers information to support communication planning and evaluates communication effectiveness using digital metrics, media monitoring, community feedback, and other available data.
Assist with photography, social media content creation, and the planning and coverage of public events, including groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, commissioner events, and other community activities.
Coordinates communications and visual materials with departments, divisions, and organizational functions to support consistent messaging and alignment with County priorities.
Collaborates with management, subject matter experts, elected officials, communications teams, and community stakeholders to support communications activities, media relations, public appearances, and special events.
Responds to media, stakeholder, and community inquiries and assists in coordinating timely, accurate, and appropriate responses.
Reviews communications for compliance with County branding, style, accessibility, confidentiality, records management, and other applicable standards and requirements.
Uses emerging technologies and County-approved artificial intelligence tools to support research, content development, planning, analysis, accessibility, and workflow efficiency, with appropriate human oversight.
Maintains current knowledge of communications practices, digital platforms, accessibility standards, analytics, emerging technologies, and public-sector communications to support effective communication practices.