Public Relations Officer

The Mobile County Personnel Board is currently accepting online applications for PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER on a continuous basis.

Once the Personnel Board creates the PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER list, it will be valid for one year and Mobile Public Library will use the list throughout the year to fill vacancies.

You may access the online job announcement and apply at the Mobile County Personnel Board Job Opportunities page.

Kind of Work

This is public relations work in developing and implementing programs designed to create, maintain, and enhance a favorable public image for the employing jurisdiction and awareness of local governmental programs and agencies. 

Examples of Work

Studies the objectives, promotional policies, and needs of organizations to develop public relations strategies that will influence public opinion or promote ideas, products, or services.

Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with representatives of community, consumer, employee, and public interest groups, such as the local media, including television, radio, and print, in order to promote cooperation and coordination between these groups and the organization.

Plans and directs development and communication of programs by writing press releases, promotional materials, newsletters and public service announcements, developing weekly radio segments, and coordinating paid advertising with local media to inform the public of current events and to maintain favorable public perceptions of the organization's accomplishments. 

Assists with and organizes press conferences in order to maintain a productive atmosphere. 

Provides assistance to supervisor or other officials in order to help expedite processes.

Serves as spokesperson for the organization in response to media and public inquiries. 

Updates and monitors social media accounts and websites in order to publicize the agency. 

Conducts special projects and events by coordinating, assisting and overseeing their development and implementation in order to help maintain the processes and objectives of the organization.

Ensures accuracy of facility arrangements and signage by conducting and overseeing appropriate maintenance in order to sustain the organization’s image.   

Develops resolutions and certificates, in writing, to respond to the needs of the public or the organization. 

Manages the production of monthly calendars to be disseminated within the organization and the public to guide and facilitate knowledge sharing.

Provides disaster response assistance when needed.

Photograph events using a 35mm digital camera or other devices to memorialize occasions.

Serves as the liaison for the organization at meetings or events by addressing the public, civic, business, or service organizations to effectively represent the organization’s values and goals.

Produces newsletters and new arrivals listings for distribution to library patrons. 

Designs invitations to board members, elected officials, community organizations, media, and the public for special events in order to ensure all appropriate parties are well informed and have the opportunity to participate in events for the organization. 

Develops materials such as correspondence, brochures, and contribution envelopes for special events and projects.

Serves as a member of the Senior Management Team or other advisory groups within the organization. 

Tracks marketing budgets to ensure good return on investment. 

Performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Attainment of a minimum of a bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university in journalism, public relations, or a related field and a minimum of three years’ experience in public information or public relations work; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to these requirements. 

Essential Requirements of the Work

Thorough knowledge of the principles, techniques and objectives of public relations. 

Thorough knowledge of current English usage and various journalistic styles.

Thorough knowledge of the methods, techniques and practices of public information dissemination.

Good knowledge of the laws and regulations pertaining to the dissemination of public information. 

Good knowledge of the employing jurisdiction’s programs, operations, rules, policies and procedures, or the ability to readily acquire such knowledge.

Skill in writing informative articles.

Skill in speaking to the public, community organizations, and the media.

Skill at balancing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Skill at managing one's own time. 

Skill in using social media and other internet outlets in promoting events, activities, and programs.

Ability to develop press releases, brochures, articles, speeches and special displays and exhibits. 

Ability to present information clearly and in an interesting manner to the news media and other interested parties. 

Ability to apply the principles and practices of public relations to the public information function of the employing jurisdiction.

Ability to work with and assist other departments and agencies.

Ability to operate 35 mm digital cameras and smart phones to photograph events.

Ability to operate computers and job related software programs.

Ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Ability to speak or communicate information and ideas so others will understand.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to learn and retain information and procedures.

Ability to follow oral or written instructions.

Ability to attend to detail.

Ability to adapt to different situations.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, civic and community groups, news media, and the general public. 

This position may be required to work extended hours before, during, and/or after a disaster, including additional responsibilities outside of normal operations. 

Physical Requirements:   

Ability to exert physical effort in sedentary to light work, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of objects and walking, standing, and sitting.

Distinguishing Features of the Work

An employee in this class is responsible for formulating and coordinating informative programs and materials to promote and increase community awareness of organizational services and facilities. Work is performed in accordance with established guidelines and procedures under the general supervision of a department head, Appointing Authority, or other supervisor, and supervision is exercised over staff as assigned.

Working Test Period (WTP)

1 year

Career Type
Full Time
Application Start Date
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled
No
Application Link