Communications Specialist/PIO

Communications Specialist/PIO– FT $24.54 (Hourly) –Administration

The position is responsible for developing and implementing effective communication strategies that enhance the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners brand, promote services, and engage target audiences. This role involves creating compelling content for various platforms, managing media relations, supporting internal communication efforts, and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels. The Communications Specialist will collaborate closely with County departments to align communication initiatives with organizational goals.

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop communications content for both print and web including website, brochures, social media, newsletters, press releases, presentation materials, annual reports, and marketing materials. Ensures content is on-brand, consistent in style, quality, and tone reflecting the County’s values.
• Builds and maintains relationships with local and regional media outlets. Manage press coverage to enhance the County’s visibility and reputation.
• Creates and schedules content across social media platforms. Monitor engagement, respond to inquiries, and track performance metrics to improve social media strategies across departments.
• Develops a variety of administrative documents. Collects, analyzes, and maintains related data, systems, and information including confidential files and records.
• Supports internal communication efforts by drafting employee newsletters, internal announcements, and other content to promote organizational culture and initiatives.
• Assists in developing and executing crisis communication plans. Provide timely and accurate information to media, stakeholders, and the public during emergencies. In times of emergency or crisis the Communications Specialist will perform the function of County Public Information Officer reporting to the Incident Commander.
• Collaborate with Departments to implement Strategic Plan objectives. Monitor and analyze the Plan performance and adjust strategies as needed.
• Leads or participates in a variety of meetings, committees, task forces, or other related groups to communicate information regarding services, programs, areas of opportunity, and other pertinent information as appropriate. Communicates meeting outcomes and action plans as appropriate following up and reporting on expected results.
• Plan and support promotional events, including preparing promotional materials, coordinating media coverage, and managing communications during events.
• Deliver impactful and engaging public presentations.
• Provides support during critical events to manage the experiences of participants, county staff, and elected officials.
• Provides information and resources to constituents on County programs and services.
• Serves as an essential worker during declared disasters.
• Performs miscellaneous job duties as assigned by the Assistant County Administrator.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge of journalistic principles & methods.
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in using content management systems, social media platforms, and analytics tools including graphic design tools and video creation tools.
• Excellent verbal communication and people skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Strong critical thinking skills and ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures.
• Understanding of local government procedures and Sunshine Laws.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 2-4 Years of experience in communications, public relations, or related field.
• 2 years of experience in content creation, media relations, and social media management.
• FEMA basic PIO within 12 months
• Possession of a valid Florida Driver's License.