What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Public Relations Specialist position at City of Topeka?
The City of Topeka is seeking an experienced communications professional who is passionate about public safety and skilled in strategic communications to join its team. The Senior Public Relations Specialist serves as a dedicated liaison between the Citys Fire and Police departments and the public and ensures clear, accurate and timely messaging during both routine operations and emergency situations.
As a key member of the communications team, this position works closely with first responders, leadership, media outlets, and community stakeholders to shape the narrative of public safety efforts in our city. Additionally, the Senior Public Relations Specialist will serve as the backup to the Division Director of Communications. Primary hours for the position are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but nights and weekends will be required as needed
Primary duties include:
- Perform liaison and public relations assignments dealing with other departments, divisions, public and all local media outlets.
- Works in conjunction with the City Communications Department to coordinate training for Fire and Police Department personnel on media, public relations, and marketing.
- Coordinate the release of information about victims, witnesses, suspects, and other fire and police-related events.
- Arrange and coordinates press conferences, meetings, special programs, and events for the Fire and Police Departments.
- Work in conjunction with the Director of Communications, the Fire Chief, and the Chief of Police to present positive stories about the Fire and Police Departments to the media to help promote the cooperative efforts between the community and these departments, as well as enhancing the image of these departments.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Has advanced writing skills and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely through various channels.
- Is skilled at utilizing all social media platforms
- Has the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
Minimum qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in communications, public relations, journalism, or related field is required.
- Two years of experience in advertising, public relations, marketing, broadcasting, journalism, or a related field, including experience in writing copy, developing advertising layouts, making public presentations, reporting editing or media relations is required.
- Without a degree, a High School diploma or its equivalent is required as well as six years of experience in advertising, public relations, marketing, broadcasting, journalism or a related field is acceptable.
- Must possess and maintain a valid KS drivers license and City insurable driving record. Please review the Insurability Guidelines.
- Must be able to pass an extensive background check.
Annual entry salary: Up to $75,000 depending on qualifications
Click here to view the full position description.
The City of Topeka offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health/Dental/Prescription Insurance
- Kansas Public Employee Retirement System.
- Generous paid Vacation and Sick leave
- Paid Life/Long Term Disability Insurance
- Deferred Comp Savings Plan
- Short-Term Disability Insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free Onsite Health & Wellness Clinic
- Free in-house fitness facility
- Employee Assistance Program
The City of Topeka is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary : $75,000
