Description

The Department of Utilities is seeking an innovative and results oriented professional to manage media relations as a Public Information Specialist II. This person will plan, direct and maintain effective promotional programs, promote city services through written and verbal communications and educate the community on department related issues.

Essential Functions

Essential functions Include but are not limited to:

Manages media relations by writing press releases and public service announcements, contacting the media and arranging interviews, responding to media inquiries by obtaining information from the department and serving on committees.
Plans, directs and maintains effective promotional programs by developing campaigns to highlight programs and services, developing effective strategies for communicating with the public, planning and staging events and presentations, developing marketing materials and designing and creating visual displays.
Produces content for social media, website and other platforms
Performs administrative duties by researching and writing reports and replies to citizens, reviewing and preparing statistical information for presentations and monitoring and recording proceedings at meetings.
Performs related duties by acting as the bureau's or department's photographer and preparing and researching grants.
Performs educational duties in schools and community.
Writes, edits, designs, and coordinates printing of newsletters, fact sheets, brochures, advertisements, articles, and other educational materials and correspondence in accordance with the department's media relations requirements.
Works with the Information Technology Department in establishing and maintaining department databases and websites containing information on community events and activities; supervises and trains individuals in proper techniques used to enter, maintain, and update website information. Assists the public in accessing community information from the website.
Develops and manages a public outreach program to enhance the public's understanding of water protection and promote behaviors that reduce potential problems with wastewater and sanitary sewer.
Develops and implement public relations and public involvement processes to increase awareness and advocacy of projects and resolve potential issues through communications with residents, businesses and commuters.
Develops communications methods to enhance customer service, public understanding of the Department and foster cooperation and support to and from the local community.
Produces a Water Quality Report annually for distribution to all Norfolk residents and businesses.
Maintains an internal communications program to provide timely and accurate information to Department employees.
Maintains the Department's internet website with current and relevant information.
Plans, coordinates and participates in special events for the Department to encourage internal team-building and organizational development, publicly celebrate project milestones and participate in civil and community observances.
Performs related work as required.

Education/Experience

Work requires broad knowledge in a general professional or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Requires professional & technical writing training depending on assignment.

A bachelor's degree in Communications or Public Relations is preferred.

Three years experience.

Additional Information & Requirements

Valid Driver's License

Work Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Work Location: 500 East Main Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510

Signing Bonus: This position is eligible for a one-time $5,000 signing bonus.

This position is designated as an 'Essential' position and you may be required to work extended, rotating, after hours, weekends, and/or holiday shifts in response to emergencies and severe weather.**

City of Norfolk, VA

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Public Information Specialist II