Information and Education Specialist (SR-22)

Plans and executes a comprehensive public information program for a major operating department or agency that includes educational and community relations activities; and performs other related duties as required. Distinguishing Characteristics This class is distinguished by its responsibility to perform the full range of public relations and informational activities relating to governmental functions and programs for a major operating department or agency. (The following are examples of duties and are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in this class. The omission of specific duties statements does not preclude management from assigning such duties if such duties are a logical assignment for the position.) Plans and executes a comprehensive public information program that includes educational and community relations activities; Recommends and implements procedures relative to the department's or agency’s public information program; Conducts fact-findings studies and surveys; evaluates information and opinions; prepares reports of finding with recommendations for responses or presentations; Researches and prepares news releases, articles, advertising campaigns, scripts and other communications concerning the department's or agency’s activities, operations, and future plans; Determines choices of media and methods for dissemination information; writes news releases, articles, bulletins, notices, and radio announcement scripts; speaks before government, business, and community organizations; Meets with appropriate community organizations and/or concerned and interested residents; interprets and explains the department's or agency’s policies, programs, and operations; clarifies the department's or agency’s policy decisions; provides information on Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), program design, or construction status; and publicizes the department's or agency’s activities and accomplishments to improve the public's understanding and support of the goals and objectives of the various programs and projects; Plans the layout and design, and arranges for printing of informational material; arranges for photographs and other illustrative material; assists with demonstrations and exhibits for public display; Plans and develops video and power point presentations; develops and maintains social media sites and departmental or county websites; Assists in the preparation of annual and special reports and newsletters; Organizes and coordinates the department's or agency’s participation in community projects and events to foster community relations; Establishes and maintains effective relationship with the press, radio, and television executives, and with other business and community representatives; Plans special events; Performs other related duties as assigned. Training and Experience (1) A combination of education and experience substantially equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a baccalaureate degree in journalism, communications, public administration, education, English or a related field, and (2) two years of professional work experience in public relations, journalism, or public administration that included experience in researching, organizing, and developing newsletters, brochures, websites, press releases, and other informational materials for the media. License Requirement Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license (equivalent to State of Hawaii Type 3). Knowledge of Principles and practices of public relations; publicity methods and media; principles and techniques used in writing informational material; techniques used in preparing and editing copy for printing; designated Hawaii State and County government organization, functions and operations; research and statistical methods and techniques; principles of motivation and group dynamics, and employee involvement strategies, and computer programs and software used for public information purposes. Ability to Formulate ideas and express them clearly and concisely orally and in writing; evaluate and present facts accurately; work cooperatively with employees and other government officials; communicate effectively with the various segments of the public; plan and execute informational programs; analyze and determine management and organizational needs; organize and facilitate meetings; work with staff to formulate and implement strategic plans; operate a personal computer, use graphic design and publishing software applications; operate camera equipment to produce camera ready products; and travel throughout the County to meet with employees, representatives from community organizations and businesses, and individuals from the public. Health and Physical Condition Persons seeking appointment to positions in this class must meet the health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations. Physical Effort Grouping Light #J-18808-Ljbffr County of Maui