Manatee County Government is hiring: DIGITAL CONTENT SPECIALIST in Bradenton

Work Location: 1102 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida 34208

Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

This classification is responsible for creating and posting digital and web content online that effectively communicates information, news, and events about Manatee County Department’s projects, operations, and services. The Digital Content Specialist will assist with quality control and proper functioning of the department’s website, project websites, and content creation and submission for the County's social media platforms. This classification works closely with the County's Information Outreach staff, its public website team members, the County's contracted paid media firms, and project management staff.

Working Conditions:
Indoor/Office situation, primary work environment; occasional outdoor environment. Lifting equipment up to 25 lbs. alone; up to 75 lbs. with assistance.

Essential Functions:
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

1. Creates and optimizes content on Department website, project sites, webmaps, and social media platforms to maximize exposure and publicity of the department’s news and events.
2. Works with the Communications Coordinator and Manager to develop social media strategies to tell the stories of Manatee County departments.
3. Works with the Information Outreach team to manage social media campaigns that alert followers of important County meetings, initiatives, projects, events, and announcements.
4. Works on a team to accomplish multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
5. Coordinates internal agency announcements and messaging.
6. Coordinates and schedules Information Outreach projects.
7. Creates and publishes engaging content, including email copy, blogs, landing pages, newsletters, and social media posts to build and maintain a strong online presence.
8. Assists the Digital Content Coordinator to evaluate submissions from departmental content writers to decide what information should be prioritized on the County's homepage and primary social media accounts.
9. Works with the County’s Public Information Office (ESF-14) to disseminate important public service announcements on the County’s website and social media channels before, during, and after natural and manmade emergency situations.
10. Serves as a backup and support to the Digital Content Coordinator and other staff as identified.

Performs other related work (including weather or extreme emergency duties) as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Associates degree in public administration, journalism, public relations, or related field.

Minimum two (2) years of work experience managing website or social media content, images, and video. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Background in web or digital writing preferred.

Two (2) years of experience in graphic design and digital content creation, preferably in a marketing or public sector environment is desired.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of techniques and accepted practices of speech writing, copyrighting, news gathering, and interviewing.
2. Proficiency in industry-standard design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.) is desired.
3. Experience in creating visually engaging graphics for digital platforms, including social media, websites, and email campaigns is desired.
4. Knowledge of current principles, techniques, and objectives of public information programs.
5. Ability to remain calm and react appropriately while working under pressure.
6. Excellent public relations, presentation, and time management skills.
7. Experience coordinating public events and informational meetings.
8. Experience managing contracted media campaigns and familiarity with government procurement processes.
9. Working knowledge of drones and DSLR cameras for photo/video work appreciated.