Public Information Specialist- City Utilities

City of Columbia MO- HR Columbia, MO Full-time Advertising / Marketing / Public Relations

Posted on March 1, 2023

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Posting Number	2911P
Position Title	Public Information Specialist - City Utilities
Department	City Utilities
Job Code	04801
FLSA Status	Non-Exempt
Union Code/Affiliation	Unrepresented
Division	UTILITY SERVICES
Job Description Summary	Utilize a variety of communication methods that relay the City’s messages to internal and external audiences in a professional and visually appealing manner.
Essential Job Functions	Initiates, plans, and implements public communications programs to improve customer service and promote internal and external understanding of services, projects, programs, and policies. Manages media relations and acts as a spokesperson. Prepares and presents informational programs to civic groups, community stakeholders, and working groups. Responds to internal and external correspondence and requests for information. Oversees concept, design, and implementation of advertising and marketing campaigns for print, radio, television, web, and social media. Utilize graphic design software and design principles to produce newsletters, brochures, ads, signage, invitations, cards, posters, flyers, and other materials. Write and edit content for a variety of publications; press releases, reports, website, and social media content. Assist in web design and development with the Webmaster to keep website information timely and accurate. Maintain/respond to social media outlets in a timely fashion. Act as records custodian. Coordinate Sunshine Law requests from the public for city-related information.
Ancillary Job Functions	Represent the department on committees and in planning exhibits and other displays. Arrange meetings between City communicators and local media or citizens. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Education and Experience - An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered	Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field required. Minimum of three years relevant experience in the public communications field. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities which may be representative, but not all-inclusive of those commonly associated with this position	Knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices involved in presenting information through public news media or other publications. Knowledge of English grammar, Associated Press style, various communication media uses, format requirements, audiences, etc. Knowledge of Microsoft Office products, web editing software, and social media practices, and with some positions proficient in Adobe Creative Suite. Knowledge of research methods and practices. Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, both orally and in writing. Act as an art director for graphic design projects, experience with basic graphic design practices. Ability to conduct research and prepare analyses and reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, media representatives, civic groups, and the general public.
Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job	General office conditions. Exposed to moderate noise levels. Some positions may require occasional work in varying, inclement outdoor weather conditions.
Physical Abilities that are commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job. The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions	Must be able to sit, talk, and listen for extended periods of time. Must be able to drive, reach with hands/arms, and stoop/crouch. Must have clarity of vision and the ability to identify/distinguish colors for photographing city activities. Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand, and/or finger movement to type and work on computer. Must have finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work on computers, telephones, and related office equipment. May be required to lift up to 20 pounds. Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.
Hours/Days	8:00-5:00 M-F – Some nights and weekends as necessary.
Supervision Exercised	None.
Starting Salary	$17.82/hr - $22.70/hr - Minimum to midpoint, Commensurate with training and experience.
Pay Grade	C4
Number of Positions Available	1
Deadline to Apply
Open Until Filled	Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants	8 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday -Friday; Some nights and weekends as necessary. This posting is open until filled with a preferred application deadline of Monday, January 16, 2023.
Notice to Applicants	Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573.874.CITY (2489) TTY: 711 (MO RELAY) THE CITY OF COLUMBIA IS A MERIT, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: MALE / FEMALE THE CITY OF COLUMBIA REQUIRES PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING The City of Columbia participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program

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