This is professional journalist and public relations work in preparing news releases, bulletins, and reports for use in a program of public information.

Employees in this classification are responsible for assisting in assembling facts concerning agency operations and arranging them for presentation as public information. Duties include gathering information, verifying data with operating officials; editing material to be released to the news media. Assignments are received in general from through conferences with agency officials and administrative personnel. Work is reviewed through conferences, personal inspections and written reports for the attainment of desired objectives and for conformity with established policies and procedures.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Writes and edits news releases, feature stories, articles and speeches; arranges for the dissemination of finished materials.

Conducts field and office pamphlets and booklets on departmental objectives and activities.

Assembles information to be used in speeches and special reports.

Meets with departmental, civic, and business groups and the general public to discuss and secure information for use in writing articles, brochures, and other such publications.

Condenses lengthy reports into brief and newsworthy copy.

May give speeches and present information to civic and governmental groups.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of journalistic principles and practices, and techniques in the composition of publicity materials.

Considerable knowledge of English usage and the requirements of press, radio and television media.

Knowledge of industrial news writing and publicity techniques.

Ability to write and assemble interesting and informative news releases, pamphlets, brochures, scripts and related publicity materials.

Ability to edit and analyze informational material prepared by others.

Ability to plan and organize informational programs.

Ability to create and maintain effective working relationships with the public, administrative officials and the news media.

REV 11/99