El Paso County, CO
Communications & Public Relations Coordinator
El Paso County, CO, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Salary: $44,910.00 - $65,130.00 Annually
Location : Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2500002
Department: Communications Department
Opening Date: 01/03/2025
Closing Date: 1/12/2025 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Need more information on completing a job application? See the EPC Application process here.
Job Summary
Are you a dynamic communicator with a passion for public relations and a knack for navigating the nuances of information requests? Join our innovative team as a Communications & Public Relations Coordinator, where your expertise will be pivotal in managing and responding to CORA (Colorado Open Records Act) requests. In this role, you will serve as the bridge between our organization and the public, ensuring transparency and fostering trust through effective communication strategies. You will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of CORA requests, from initial inquiries to final responses, while maintaining compliance and upholding the highest standards of government transparency. As a key player in our communications team, you will also have the opportunity to collaborate on engaging public relations campaigns, support media outreach efforts, and contribute to our overall mission of community engagement. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, are service-focused, and eager to make a meaningful impact by enhancing community trust, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping how we connect with our community and champion transparency in our operations!
Hiring Range: $48,000.00 - $54,000.00 annually
This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm, subject to change. This position participates in an on-call rotation, typically one to two weeks per month.
Please be advised this position may close on or after 01/06/2025 without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.
This position is responsible for assisting in the strategic development, implementation, and coordination of internal and external communication, not limited to, media relations, marketing, advertising, digital media content creation, special events, community relations, and citizen participation activities. Assists with tracking legislative issues and preparing any supporting documents. Assists with Colorado Open Records Requests Act (CORA).
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
Supervision Received: Receives intermittent supervision. This classification normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor is expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Work Conditions
Duties are primarily performed in an office environment; however, may require frequent work outdoors. Some travel is required. The position will require flexibility to be available seven days a week. At times, it may be necessary for staff to travel to training and meetings and to work additional hours to meet the responsibilities of the position.
The classification specification above is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and minimum qualifications; specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and environmental conditions will vary depending on the needs of the department/office and the particular assignment. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources Department.
VISION
El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.
PURPOSE
We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.
El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.
El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
01
How did you learn of this position?
02
Please select your highest level of education.
03
If you have obtained an associate's degree or higher, please indicated your field of study. If you have not obtained a degree, please list N/A.
04
How many years of professional experience do you have in media, communications, or a related field?
05
Please briefly describe your experience that you referenced above, listing employer's name, timeframe worked, and position title that correlates with the information you provided in your work history on your application. Stating "see resume" or similar comment could remove you from consideration for this position. If you do not have professional experience in media, communications, or a related field, please state N/A.
06
How many years of experience do you have managing open records requests or handling sensitive and confidential records?
07
Please select which program(s) you have working experience with.
08
Do you have working experience with WordPress or a similar application?
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
10
Have you read, and do you accept, the work conditions as outlined in the job posting?
11
This position is not budgeted to provide sponsorship. Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship to work in the United States?
Required Question
Location : Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2500002
Department: Communications Department
Opening Date: 01/03/2025
Closing Date: 1/12/2025 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Need more information on completing a job application? See the EPC Application process here.
Job Summary
Are you a dynamic communicator with a passion for public relations and a knack for navigating the nuances of information requests? Join our innovative team as a Communications & Public Relations Coordinator, where your expertise will be pivotal in managing and responding to CORA (Colorado Open Records Act) requests. In this role, you will serve as the bridge between our organization and the public, ensuring transparency and fostering trust through effective communication strategies. You will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of CORA requests, from initial inquiries to final responses, while maintaining compliance and upholding the highest standards of government transparency. As a key player in our communications team, you will also have the opportunity to collaborate on engaging public relations campaigns, support media outreach efforts, and contribute to our overall mission of community engagement. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, are service-focused, and eager to make a meaningful impact by enhancing community trust, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping how we connect with our community and champion transparency in our operations!
Hiring Range: $48,000.00 - $54,000.00 annually
This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm, subject to change. This position participates in an on-call rotation, typically one to two weeks per month.
Please be advised this position may close on or after 01/06/2025 without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.
This position is responsible for assisting in the strategic development, implementation, and coordination of internal and external communication, not limited to, media relations, marketing, advertising, digital media content creation, special events, community relations, and citizen participation activities. Assists with tracking legislative issues and preparing any supporting documents. Assists with Colorado Open Records Requests Act (CORA).
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
- Responsible for creating and maintaining communication materials, including printed materials, website development, social media, and other electronic communications, such as the development of video productions and podcasts.
- Manages social media outreach as a proactive advocate for the strategic goals to ensure transparency and foster greater trust and engagement in county government; creates, designs, and coordinates social media outreach campaigns through video, graphics, and other digital content.
- Responsible for creating and coordinating timely messaging and informational campaigns for distribution through social media platforms, County Television Channels, news releases, and news advisories.
- Develops internal communications, including newsletters, calendars, and signs.
- Monitors traditional news and social media outlets daily to stay well informed of local issues and community concerns that may have an impact on County programs and functions.
- Monitors county websites, mobile applications, and social media platforms to identify and correct any errors.
- Responsible for a variety of public information functions, including scriptwriting, producing, designing, shooting, and editing original County-related content.
- Provides general media relations services, including answering media inquiries, writing and disseminating press releases, event organizing, and facilitating (webinars, press conferences, etc.).
- Produces and disseminates media relations press kits and provides details and background information for media reports.
- Plans and assists with news conferences and special events, including ribbon cuttings, dedications, retirement and ceremonial proclamations, holiday activities, and openings.
- Serves as a representative of the County at public functions, including hosting/announcing events and delivering speeches.
- Responsible for media coverage of County officials and events, including photographing, videotaping, editing, and disseminating materials.
- Assists in the coordination and completion of television and radio interviews; provides administration and elected officials with talking points and relevant information prior to each interview.
- Assists with developing, updating, and maintaining the website; ensures the website is ADA compliant and accessible.
- Updates the website in emergency situations, such as during winter storms, fires, or during other events that disrupt the normal operations of the office.
- Assists in the tracking of legislation and prepares any necessary supporting documentation. Participates in preparing, reviews, and edits legislative testimony.
- Assist with Colorado Open Records Requests (CORA) to ensure compliance with Federal, State, and Local laws, policies, and procedures. Investigates, analyzes, and prepares responsive records and provides and administrative in support.
- Performs other duties as required.
Supervision Received: Receives intermittent supervision. This classification normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor is expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Must demonstrate an understanding of the structure, as well as the primary functions and responsibilities of county government.
- Proficiency with computer systems and desktop publishing software, including electronic media, website, social media platforms, and website content management.
- Must possess exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to use camera and video camera equipment, working knowledge of still photography, video production, editing, graphic design, and digital and social media software.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions; ability to prioritize tasks and to move between projects on short notice.
- Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, clients, vendors, other agencies, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
- Ability to foster goodwill by working collaboratively with various offices, departments, agencies, and volunteers.
- Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organize.
- Ability to demonstrate problem-solving skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
- High school diploma or equivalent education.
- Two years of experience in media, communications, or related field.
- Associate's degree in a related field may substitute for one year of the required experience.
- Bachelor's degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.
- Bachelor's degree in communications, public administration, or closely related field.
- Experience with Office 365, OneDrive, PowerPoint, Adobe Creative Suite (In Design), and Canva.
- Experience in WordPress or similar application.
- Knowledge and experience with the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA).
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.
Work Conditions
Duties are primarily performed in an office environment; however, may require frequent work outdoors. Some travel is required. The position will require flexibility to be available seven days a week. At times, it may be necessary for staff to travel to training and meetings and to work additional hours to meet the responsibilities of the position.
The classification specification above is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and minimum qualifications; specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and environmental conditions will vary depending on the needs of the department/office and the particular assignment. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources Department.
VISION
El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.
PURPOSE
We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.
El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.
El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- Paid vacation, sick, and personal leave
- 11 paid holidays
- Onsite health centers
- Onsite fitness centers
- Reach Your Peak wellness program
- Short and long term disability
- Life insurance
- Flexible spending accounts to include dependent care
- Employee assistance program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Retirement plan
- Deferred compensation (457b)
01
How did you learn of this position?
- I am currently employed by EPC
- El Paso County Website
- Indeed.com
- Employee Referral
- Social Media (Twitter/Facebook)
- University/College Career Site
- Industry-specific Career Site
- Professional Membership Career Site
- Career Fair
- Other
02
Please select your highest level of education.
- High school diploma or equivalent education
- Associate's degree
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree
- None of the above
03
If you have obtained an associate's degree or higher, please indicated your field of study. If you have not obtained a degree, please list N/A.
04
How many years of professional experience do you have in media, communications, or a related field?
- 0 years to less than 1 year
- 1 year to less than 2 years
- 2 years to less than 3 years
- 3 years to less than 4 years
- 4 or more years
- No professional experience
05
Please briefly describe your experience that you referenced above, listing employer's name, timeframe worked, and position title that correlates with the information you provided in your work history on your application. Stating "see resume" or similar comment could remove you from consideration for this position. If you do not have professional experience in media, communications, or a related field, please state N/A.
06
How many years of experience do you have managing open records requests or handling sensitive and confidential records?
- 0 years to less than 1 year
- 1 year to less than 2 years
- 2 years to less than 3 years
- 3 or more years
- No professional experience
07
Please select which program(s) you have working experience with.
- Office 365
- OneDrive
- PowerPoint
- Adobe Creative Suite (In Design)
- Canva
08
Do you have working experience with WordPress or a similar application?
- Yes
- No
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
10
Have you read, and do you accept, the work conditions as outlined in the job posting?
- Yes
- No
11
This position is not budgeted to provide sponsorship. Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship to work in the United States?
- Yes
- No
Required Question