Communications & Public Relations Specialist – Public Health

Overview

We’re looking for a versatile communications pro who moves fluidly from strategy to execution — working to meet the communications needs of a public health emergency one hour, responding to a public records request the next, and coaching a colleague through accessibility remediation after that. This generalist, in-house role means you’ll get to do it all:

Designing reports, flyers, social media graphics and more
Managing and monitoring our social media channels on Instagram and Facebook
Participating in media relations activities
Responding to Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) requests
Supporting our Communications team in leading ADA/digital accessibility compliance
Providing emergency response support, including occasional after-hours needs
Performing website updates and maintenance in WordPress
Working with a variety of programs to develop materials and campaigns through a strategic lens
Writing articles and other materials

If you enjoy solving problems on the fly and find energy in variety rather than routine, you’ll feel right at home here.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter who turns “here’s the goal” into a finished product with confidence and creativity — resourceful with limited budgets, adaptable across disciplines, and a steady, positive presence under pressure. You’ll bring strong judgment to represent our voice, enjoy collaborating with others, and stay organized to meet important deadlines. Video editing experience is a great bonus.

Ready to bring your creativity, flexibility and calm energy to a role that makes a real difference in our community?

Apply today and help tell El Paso County Public Health’s story.

Hiring Range: $65,000.00 – $67,260.00 annually

This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm, subject to change.

Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.

This position is responsible for communication activities, including strategic development, implementation, and evaluation, media relations, oversight of digital platforms, marketing activities, and emergency/risk communication. Prepares and disseminates communication materials and responds to, monitors, and evaluates strategic communication efforts in partnership leadership. Proactively researches community issues, assesses community needs, and develops educational and outreach initiatives to align with the strategic plan and goals. Employment is subject to the terms, conditions, and policies detailed in the Personnel Policies Manual (PPM). This position requires regular in-person presence as an essential job function. This position may be subject to grant funding.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities
Analyzes communications needs and develops strategic communication plans.
Responsible for proactively researching and developing timely, relevant, and credible information releases and marketing materials in coordination with leadership to ensure vital information is provided to the media and public; promotes related activities and events. Develops and distributes information via digital platforms using evidence-based and industry best practices.
Develops and maintains accurate communication and promotion materials, including printed materials, website content, and other electronic and visual media. Coordinates public relations activities, including responding to media inquiries, coordinating with media, and facilitating media requests as directed. Collaborates with leadership to identify appropriate spokespersons, research inquiries, and advise staff; attends and assists with conducting media interviews.
Responsible for responding to and monitoring media and digital media platforms. Documents, tracks, and archives all related media coverage.
Coordinates and prepares for presentations, community events, and event sponsorships. Develops and maintains activity records and reports to demonstrate progress towards goals; maintains media contact lists, mailing lists, invitation lists, and information sources. Participates in multi-disciplinary team meetings to address program needs; contributes to the development and coordination of strategic program plans.
Develops and implements strategies to improve internal communications by compiling and distributing communications, newsletters and editing applicable platforms.
Inputs, tracks, and manages all project requests; coordinates communication projects in conjunction with leadership.
Assesses individual and community needs for promotion and education for various target audiences. Conducts research on evidence-based programs for the purposes of planning and development.
Researches and stays current on emerging communication and industry trends, tactics, and best practices. Effectively implements these best practices across all platforms.
Develops, implements, and evaluates programming for target populations using a variety of educational and community outreach approaches. Prepares and delivers presentations to various audiences.
Leverages analytics, metrics, and reports to determine effectiveness and seek continual improvements of marketing and communication initiatives.
Provides support for maintaining the website, including web editing, design and layout, and content development. Maintains a high level of accuracy and ensures website content is timely, credible, and engaging.
Supports the development of strategic communication plans and participates in managing communication budgets.
Participates in program evaluation activities, including the development of evaluation tools. Supports and evaluates results of communication campaigns.
Performs other duties as required.

Supervision Exercised: This classification does not have supervisory authority; however, may be required to provide expertise or limited guidance or direction to employees, such as overseeing work quality, training, and guidance. Typically serves as a subject matter expert on the scope of functional area.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision. This classification typically performs job duties by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor may be expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.

Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of the structure, as well as primary functions and responsibilities of county government.
Must possess exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office. Working knowledge of Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. Knowledge of video-editing software is a plus.
Ability to foster goodwill by working collaboratively with various offices, departments, agencies, volunteers, and others.
Skill in using social media, emerging media, and digital communication tools. Skill in developing marketing materials and public presentations.
Skill in prioritizing and organizing multiple tasks and the ability to complete projects in a timely manner. Ability to respond in a flexible manner and reprioritize work as situations change.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, clients, vendors, other agencies, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions; ability to prioritize tasks and to move between projects on short notice.
Ability to monitor communication tools and make quick decisions.
Ability to demonstrate sound judgment by taking appropriate actions regarding questionable findings or concerns.
Ability to identify problems and work creatively to resolve them, considering the impact of actions.
Ability to write and maintain accurate records and reports.
Ability to maintain the security of sensitive and confidential information.
Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organize.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education & Experience
High school diploma or equivalent education.
Three years of experience in media, communications, or related field

Preferred Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or closely related field.

Licenses/Certificates
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Pre-Employment Requirements
Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.

Work Conditions
Duties are primarily performed in an office environment; however, may require frequent work outdoors. Some travel is required. The position will require flexibility to be available seven days a week. At times, it may be necessary for staff to travel to training and meetings and to work additional hours to meet the responsibilities of the position.