Public Relations Specialist

Somerset County Public Schools is accepting applications for a full-time, 12-month Public Relations Sepcialist position. Under the general direction of the Superintendent, the Public Relations Specialist plans, organizes, coordinates, and monitors the day-to-day public relations and communications functions of the school system.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the position. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, or designee.

Administers a variety of public relations/information policies and programs for the purpose of conforming to district policies, relevant laws, contracts and agreements.
Acts as an advisor to administrators, directors, supervisors, coordinators and managers on issues related to public relations for the purpose of ensuring consistent application of policy.
Communicates with other employees, departments, administrators and the public for the purpose of providing information and assistance concerning public information and related legal requirements.
Assists with dissemination of information to the general public.
Collaborates with other district administrative personnel for the purpose of implementing and or maintaining services and programs and lends support by providing research and input as requested.
Develops, plan and evaluate public relations procedures and policies for the purpose of ensuring the division is operating effectively and efficiently.
Assists with staff recruitment functions for the purpose of ensuring that selection procedures comply with applicable federal and state regulations. Ensures that recruitment brochures and information are available.
Collaborates with legal advisors on areas that require legal interpretation.
Participates in meetings, workshops and seminars for the purpose of conveying and/or getting information required to perform functions.
Administers the development of manuals, handbooks, and other materials for publication.
Assists with New Teacher Orientation, staff new hires and transfers by ensuring that press releases are prepared as required.
Develop and plan the Marketing Plan for the school district. This includes Social Media marketing.
Plans and directs the opening day of school meeting and the end of year staff appreciation meeting as requested.
Coordinates all Teacher of Year activities and assists with the County Parent Advisory Council Meetings.
Works with the PR representative at each school by providing direction, procedures and training.
Coordinates the website revision regarding recruitment to ensure on-going efficient Somerset County Public Schools Exposure.
Coordinates the Public Relations Advisory Board and ensures that meetings are held at least two times per year.
Maintains the County website and serves as the Connect Ed communications contact.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred, preferably in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field preferred.
Experience in a school system or educational environment is preferred.
Certificates and Licenses
Valid driver's license required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of applicable laws, policies, procedures, and current communication trends.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to analyze information, interpret data, and manage multiple projects effectively.
Strong organizational and supervisory skills.
Ability to motivate others and provide constructive performance feedback.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports.
Proficiency with internet applications, content management systems, project management software, spreadsheets, and word processing software.
Commitment to continuous professional growth and development.
Other Requirements
Ability to travel regularly to schools and district locations throughout the county.
Attendance at evening meetings, out-of-county conferences, and training sessions may be required.
Dependability, punctuality, and professionalism are essential.
Participation in professional organizations and ongoing review of professional publications is encouraged to remain current in the field.
Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Regularly required to communicate verbally and hear.
Frequently required to stand, walk, and use hands for handling materials.
Occasionally required to sit, reach, lift, and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts.
Noise level in the work environment is generally moderate.

Somerset County Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer.