Public Affairs Coordinator

Job Summary

Oversees the work of Public Affairs, which is responsible for the County's communications and outreach programs, constituent and media relations, policy analysis, program evaluation, topical research, issue management, and legislative and intergovernmental affairs. Provides input, advice, and guidance to the County Administrator, the County Board, and Division Directors on an array of policy, program, project, and political issues that arise during the course of County business.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Serves as the primary designated contact for all print, radio, web-based, and television media.
• Serves as the official Public Information Officer (PIO) in any emergency or crisis situation in which the Incident Command System is activated or at the request of local elected or appointed officials as designated by the County’s various emergency plans and reference documents. 
• Provides direct development and/or oversight of policy research, program evaluation, the implementation of various public opinion mechanisms (e.g., surveys, questionnaires, et cetera), data analysis, and various County-led initiatives.
• Develops, implements, and administers a comprehensive social media strategy to enhance the County’s visibility, engagement, and reputation. Manages Scott County’s social media platforms. Directs and participates in the creation of compelling and informative content for social media platforms. Develops and manages an annual social media content calendar to ensure timely, consistent delivery of information.
• Develops, edits, and/or supervises the development and dissemination of internal and external newsletters, special publications, press releases, issue papers, and media advisories. 
• Produces various communications vehicles on behalf of Administration and the Board of Commissioners, such as the annual "Year in Review" address, preparing legislative testimony, opinion editorials, feature columns, etc.  
• Develops and leads County-specific events, such as open houses, ribbon cuttings, the annual legislative breakfast, etc.    
• Prepares and delivers various presentations to the County Board, the County Administrator, and other internal/external groups on a wide range of subjects. 
• Assists in the development, administration, and implementation of the County’s website. Co-develops the Website Governance Team charter. Aids in implementation of the annual work plan where needed.
• Represents Scott County on various organizations, committees, subcommittees, working groups, or task forces; represents or serves as proxy for the County Administrator and/or the County Board as requested.
• Works the days and hours necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks. Must be available (especially during regular business hours or shifts) to communicate with subordinates, supervisors, customers, vendors, and any other person or organization with whom interaction is required to accomplish work and employer goals. 
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A bachelor's degree (master's degree preferred) in communications, public administration, public affairs, or a related field and five years of experience in public affairs. The incumbent shall provide a valid driver's license and a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under the general guidance and direction from the Business Operations Manager. The employee has wide latitude for the exercise of independent judgment, initiative, and discretion in performing the duties of this position. Work is reviewed periodically by the Transformation and Enterprise Services Director.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

• Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.
• Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.
• Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.
• Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.
• Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.
• Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.
• Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.
• Knowledge of effective communication media, tools, and practices.
•  Knowledge of policy and statistical analysis processes and procedures.
•  Knowledge of surveying and evaluation techniques and design.
•  Knowledge of legislative and policy procedures and processes.
•  Knowledge of federal, state, and local government organization, processes, and procedures.
•  Knowledge of media, communications, and outreach techniques and media.
•  Knowledge of Desktop Publishing and Photoshop programs.
•  Knowledge of county policies, procedures, and labor contracts.
• Ability to mediate between and among competing demands of county officials, as well as external clients.
•  Ability to anticipate and plan for potential opportunities and obstacles in various legislative, policy, or program/project areas.
•  Ability to work independently as well as cooperatively.
•  Ability to operate effectively under rapidly changing conditions or circumstances.
•  Ability to develop and implement valid and workable research models.
•  Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.
•  Ability to accomplish assigned tasks with only general directions.
•  Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.
•  Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work, typically in an office setting. The position is multi-task oriented and includes periods of stress when balancing multiple and varied needs/demands of services.
Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.