Communications Specialist

Position: Communications Specialist

Department: Public Relations

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Immediate Supervisor(s): Executive Director of Public Relations

Pay Grade: Per Compensation Manual

Days Employed: Per Compensation Manual

POSITION SUMMARY:

• Advanced knowledge of website content management systems, website organization, page structure, user permissions, and digital content management
• Ability to serve as district webmaster and provide website training, support, and guidance to district and campus users
• Advanced skills in graphic design, publication layout, and creative document production for print and digital communications
• Proficiency in photography, videography, video editing, and visual storytelling
• Knowledge of website accessibility, usability, content standards, and best practices for digital communications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor''s degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and public speaking
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Thorough knowledge of media relations and public relations functions
• Ability to monitor and assist with social media communications
• Advanced skills in graphic design, digital and print publication design, photography, videography, video editing, and creative content production
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in website management, digital communications, social media, and visual content production
• Must be able to research and interpret topical information with limited timelines
• Ability to work with the local business community
• Such alternative to the above qualifications as the District may find appropriate and acceptable

Experience:

• One to three years of experience in journalism, public relations, communications, or related field experience
• Public school experience preferred
• Demonstrated experience in website content management and creative digital/print production required

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as district webmaster and oversee the day-to-day organization, accuracy, accessibility, and presentation of content on the district website
• Manage district website users, permissions, page access, and content workflows; provide training and support to campus and department website users
• Maintain website structure and organization to ensure district information is clear, consistent, current, and easy for users to locate.
• Write, edit, design, and produce district communications for print and digital platforms, including newsletters, brochures, reports, presentations, programs, signage, and other publications
• Provide advanced graphic design, document layout, formatting, and creative production support for district and department projects
• Create and edit photography, video, graphics, and other multimedia content for district websites, social media, publications, presentations, and special projects
• Photograph and record assigned district and campus events, programs, and activities
• Produce and post content for district social media and digital communication platforms and assist with monitoring engagement as assigned
• Support campuses and departments in publicizing programs, events, achievements, performances, and other district activities
• Prepare materials for district recognitions, ceremonies, special events, and presentations
• Maintain and update content for district digital signage and other communication platforms
• Support the daily operations of the Public Relations Department and perform other duties as assigned
• Other duties as assigned

EXPECTATIONS OF MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job

• Tools/Equipment Used: Computer, DSLR camera, video camera and relevant equipment, fax, copier, printer
• Motion: Frequent walking and reaching, frequent standing; kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Lifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); heavy lifting (45 pounds or over)
• Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; exposure to biological hazards (body fluids, bacteria, communicable diseases); occasional prolonged and irregular hours; frequent in-district and occasional out of district travel
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; ability to interact positively and proactively with students, staff, and the community
• Professional Dress: Dress must be clean, neat, in a manner appropriate for his or her assignment, and in accordance with any additional standards established by his or her supervisor and approved by the Superintendent. During work hours, visible body piercings (except earrings) will not be allowed.

EVALUATIONS:

• Performance of this position will be evaluated annually