Communications & Public Relations Specialist - Public Health Job at El Paso Coun

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:

Responsibilities

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

Analyzing communications needs and developing strategic communication plans

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; promoting related activities and events. Developing and distributing information via digital platforms using evidence-based and industry best practices.

Developing and maintaining accurate communication and promotion materials, including printed materials, website content, and other electronic and visual media. Coordinating public relations activities, responding to media inquiries, coordinating with media, and facilitating media requests as directed. Collaborating with leadership to identify appropriate spokespersons, researching inquiries, and advising staff; attending and assisting with conducting media interviews.

Responding to and monitoring media and digital media platforms. Documenting, tracking, and archiving all related media coverage.

Coordinating and preparing for presentations, community events, and event sponsorships. Developing and maintaining activity records and reports to demonstrate progress toward goals; maintaining media contact lists, mailing lists, invitation lists, and information sources. Participating in multi-disciplinary team meetings to address program needs; contributing to the development and coordination of strategic program plans.

Developing and implementing strategies to improve internal communications by compiling and distributing communications, newsletters, and editing applicable platforms.

Inputting, tracking, and managing all project requests; coordinating communication projects in conjunction with leadership.

Assessing individual and community needs for promotion and education for various target audiences. Conducting research on evidence-based programs for planning and development purposes.

Researching and staying current on emerging communication and industry trends, tactics, and best practices. Effectively implementing these best practices across all platforms.

Developing, implementing, and evaluating programming for target populations using a variety of educational and community outreach approaches. Preparing and delivering presentations to various audiences.

Leveraging analytics, metrics, and reports to determine effectiveness and seek continual improvements of marketing and communication initiatives.

Providing support for maintaining the website, including web editing, design and layout, and content development. Maintaining a high level of accuracy and ensuring website content is timely, credible, and engaging.

Supporting the development of strategic communication plans and participating in managing communication budgets.

Participating in program evaluation activities, including the development of evaluation tools. Supporting and evaluating results of communication campaigns.

Performing other duties as required.

Qualifications

Knowledge of the structure, as well as primary functions and responsibilities of county government.

Exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, 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; prioritize tasks and move between projects on short notice.

Ability to monitor communication tools and make quick decisions.

Sound judgment in taking appropriate actions regarding questionable findings or concerns.

Problem-solving and creative solutions considering impact of actions.

Writing and maintaining accurate records and reports.

Maintaining the security of sensitive and confidential information.

Efficient planning, scheduling, and organizing.

Independent and team-oriented work.

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

Valid driver’s license.

Pre-Employment Requirements

Conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.

Additional Information
This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm, subject to change. The role may require frequent work outdoors, some travel, and flexibility to be available seven days a week, including occasional after‑hours needs. 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.

Hiring Range: $65,000.00 - $67,260.00 annually.

Supervision: Receives general supervision, may provide limited guidance to others. No supervisory authority.

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