Public Information Specialist

Oswego County•Oswego, NY

About The Position

The Oswego County Health Department is hiring a Public Information Specialist to manage public communications, develop promotional materials, and ensure accurate, consistent dissemination of information that reflects the department’s mission and public health priorities. The role shapes the department’s public image through strategic messaging across multiple platforms and requires expertise in public relations and graphic design, along with close collaboration with subject matter experts across the department. A central focus is creating and distributing materials that support consistent messaging about public health and emergency preparedness. Materials may include data visualizations, news releases, social media posts, brochures, posters, infographics, and flyers. The position also supports special events and develops marketing plans to increase participation in department classes and events. The position requires a qualifying bachelor’s degree or a bachelor’s degree plus qualifying journalistic, promotional, or public relations experience that includes copywriting or news writing. A degree in a field related to public information must include relevant media-related coursework; a major in English does not meet this educational requirement. A valid New York State driver’s license appropriate to vehicles operated, or another demonstrated ability to meet the position’s transportation needs, is required. Participation in public health emergency preparedness drills and responses may be required. Select immunizations may be required at appointment or during employment under applicable agency requirements. Pay is $24.53 per hour, plus a competitive benefits package. Applications are reviewed immediately and accepted until the position is filled. The title has temporary exam-free appointment approval through the HELP Program; permanently appointed candidates will not need to take an exam and may remain in the position after the program ends.

Requirements

Possess a bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, public information, journalism, or a field related to public information; alternatively, possess a bachelor’s degree and one year of qualifying journalistic, promotional, or public relations experience that includes copywriting, news writing, or writing primarily and directly for the media.
For a degree to qualify as a field related to public information, it must include courses in journalism, advertising, communications, radio, TV, or courses designed to prepare the student to work in the media field. A major in English does not qualify.
Possess a valid New York State driver’s license appropriate to the vehicles operated, or otherwise demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
Have expertise in public relations and graphic design.

Responsibilities

Manage the department’s public communications and help ensure accurate, consistent dissemination of information.
Develop promotional materials and strategic messaging that reflect the department’s mission and public health priorities.
Write press releases and website content.
Manage the department’s website and social media presence.
Lead the department’s website committee.
Assist with special events.
Develop marketing plans to increase participation in department classes and events.
Create and distribute materials supporting consistent public health and emergency preparedness messaging, including data visualizations, news releases, social media posts, brochures, posters, infographics, and flyers.
Collaborate closely with subject matter experts across the department.