Public Affairs Officer II

State of Maryland•Baltimore City, MD

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Join Us in Making a Difference at DJS! The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is dedicated to transforming young lives, creating safer communities, and fostering equitable systems. We are seeking passionate individuals for the role of Public Affairs Officer II (PAO) , so come join our team and make a meaningful impact on youth and the community at DJS! The main purpose of this position is to develop and execute a multi-channel digital communications strategy that educates target audiences and informs them of the agency’s mission, programs, and services. The PAO will also assist the Director of Communications, Deputy Communications Director, and the full communications team. This position is eligible to work a telework schedule.

Requirements

Seven years of experience in public information, public relations, journalism or other related experience in publicity or promotional work.
Candidates may substitute the possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 30 semester credit hours in one or more of the following subjects: English, journalism, public relations, writing or other similar and related areas of study and three years of experience in public information, public relations, journalism or other related experience in publicity or promotional work for the required experience.
Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in public affairs specialist classification or public affairs specialty codes in the information and arts field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a closely related field.
Experience working in a state or local government Communications office or Public Affairs firm.
Experience in managing social media platforms.
Digital photography and videography skills from conception to publication.
Exceptional written and verbal communications, organizational, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

Social Media Coordinator: Collaborates with the Director and Deputy Director of Communications to prepare and disseminate regular social media posts and messaging campaigns to amplify DJS's mission.
Content Creation: Develops written and digital graphic materials for internal and external use for the Departments.
Public Information/External Relations: Works with the Deputy Director of Communications and PIA stakeholders to respond to inquiries from the Public Information Act (PIA) requests related to agency activities, programs, and Department concerns.