Location: Dallas,TX, USA
This position acts as the official designee to facilitate communication to the media, community, organizations, and county departments, etc., if applicable, to promote public understanding of the County'sOffice Department'sCourt's position, plan, objective, function, and/or accomplishments and serves as the initial, centralized departmental contact to the print and broadcast media, locally and nationally, to coordinate the timely dissemination of accurate newsworthy information involving the County Office DepartmentCourt.
Serves as the initial, centralized departmental contact to the print and broadcast media, locally and nationally, to coordinate the timely dissemination of accurate newsworthy information involving the County/Office/Court/Department.
Balances the public's right to know with the organization's need to protect the integrity of confidential information or investigations without alienating the media while complying with the requirements of the Texas Public Information Act.
Provides training, support, and advice to the elected official and staff on the most appropriate techniques for use in the preparation and conduct of interviews, community meetings, speeches, and presentations.
Identifies positive human-interest stories about elected officials/department heads, and staff; and encourages media interest in developing them into positive news articles.
Coordinates community affairs engagements to foster positive public relations and to reduce barriers between the office and the public.
Develops outlines and writes copy for news releases and speeches for the elected official and staff.
Coordinates with the elected official and staff to provide public speakers with specific areas of expertise as requested to address various club and civic groups.
Maintains communication within the Office/Court/Department by preparing a periodic newsletter and other materials; maintains a file of news articles and video stories regarding the Office/Court/Department; coordinates media interviews with various groups and/or individuals located throughout the community and/or detention facilities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education, Experience and Training:
Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Journalism, English, Communications, or in a job related field of study. Three (3) years work related experience.
Special Requirements:
Skill in the use of standard software applications. Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, the general public and media representatives. Skill in bilingual communication in English/Spanish preferred. Must pass a criminal background investigation.
Physical/Environmental Requirements:
May require prolonged sitting. On call 7 days per week 24 hours per day to respond to emergency media communication requirements. Regular attendance is necessary to ensure timely communication.
An extensive pre-employment background investigation will be conducted on all applicants who have been offered a position with Dallas County. The hiring process involves successful completion of each step. The steps include: Criminal History Review, Traffic Violations Record, Review of Personal History Statement and Documents, Physical Examination, and Background Investigation.
Dallas County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, National Service Alumni volunteers, and persons with a criminal background are encouraged to apply.