INFORMATION SPECIALIST 1  L0475

Definition: This is professional, staff public relations work in the press/public relations office of a public agency.

An employee in this class develops, prepares and transmits information through all public relations media to stimulate public interest in and cooperation with the services provided by a public agency. Primary emphasis of the work is placed upon the development of news releases to explain agency activities and developing responses to news media and citizen group requests for factual information. A significant aspect of the work involves the use of tact in preparing information for the public. Employee works under the supervision of a professional superior who makes assignments, specifies preferred media, and examines completed work for accuracy, clarity and adherence to agency policy.

Examples of Work: Writes news releases on agency activities for newspapers.

Writes booklets, brochures, and prepares exhibits on agency activities.

Talks to clubs and various organizations on activities of the agency.

Collects, assembles and compiles information on agency activities.

Answers inquiries on activities of the agency and answers inquiries directed to the agency asking for factual data.

Maintains close contact with workers in all media of public relations and civic groups to further the promotion of the work of the agency.

Explains exhibits to the public at fairs and shows.

Edits copy prepared by others.

Keeps files of data and photographs.

Designs television slides to promote agency activities.

Performs related work as required.

Required Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of all media used in public relations.

Skill in writing various forms of informational materials.

Skill in lecturing on department functions.

Ability to prepare news and feature materials.

Ability to prepare spot radio and television announcements.

Ability to find newsworthy materials.

Ability to plan and prepare exhibits depicting agency activities.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public relations agencies.

Minimum Experience and Training: Two years of experience in preparing public relations promotion through all media; and such training as may have been gained through graduation from a four year college or university with major course work in public relations;

or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

Date Established or Last Revised

Class Specification - 1981

Evaluation Guide - 1986

Commonwealth Equivalent PSG ST07