PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST (DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & REGIONAL SECURITY) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Cook County, IL • Chicago, IL

57d

About The Position

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management & Regional Security is seeking a Public Relations Specialist to join our team. This position will oversee internal and external communications, including information to the public, other County Bureaus/Departments, and the press or media-related information on Bureau/Department matters. Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois' population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region. These services range from health care to urban planning. Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Two (2) years of experience in communications or public relations or
• An equivalent combination of professional work experience, training and education.
• Ability to provide concise but thorough communication regarding directives, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to call, manage, and attend any press briefings for the Bureau/Department Head or President in relation to Bureau/Department issues as approved by the President's communications team.
• Knowledge of public relations and proper rhetoric and knowledge of the press and media.
• Ability to learn and understand Cook County Government and County operations, policies, and procedures.
• Skilled in speechwriting and composing material for public release or presentation, including advisory communications.
• Good oral and writing skills; ability to formulate clear and concise language; excellent communication skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive public relations matters.

Nice To Haves

• Four (4) or more years of experience in communications or public relations.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Bureau/Department Head and their administration before the media; coordinate media access to the President as authorized by the President's communications team.
• Participate in and attend confidential discussions with the Bureau/Department Head, executives, and other staff to respond to media and public inquiries or to address communication of various County programs, initiatives, responses, policies, or procedures to the media, public, or other County agencies.
• Work with the Bureau/Department Head or their designee to develop strategies for internal and/or public dissemination of County information and programs regarding Bureau/Department directives, policies, and procedures.
• Work collaboratively and productively with staff, providing guidance where appropriate.
• Analyze the extent of public understanding of the programs administered by the County and determine the need for further public information and education activity.
• May lead the development of communication responsive to proposed legislation of the Cook County Board of Commissioners.
• Compose or compile reports, and other documentation as requested to inform the President's communications team, or leadership team regarding Bureau/Department programs, policies, and procedures.
• Prepare press releases, remarks, internal and external communications for the Bureau/Department Head as approved by the communications team; anticipates questions and assists the Bureau/Department Head in preparing documentation and appropriate responses for the press, media, or to respond to internal and external inquiries.
• Drive the development of the overall communication program for the Bureau/Department, including the development of goals and objectives.
• Drive the interdepartmental development and improvement of operations, processes, and procedures through collaborative partnerships with peers and stakeholders.
• Assist the County's Freedom of Information Officer, consulting with the Department's/Bureau's Legal Counsel, and President's Counsel or communication team as necessary in response to said inquiries.
• Lead the training or dissemination of training or other Bureau/Department related materials to staff and members of the public.

Benefits

• Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Pension Plan
• Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts - Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
• Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees