This is responsible journalistic and public relations work in developing and maintaining an extensive program of public information, publicity and industrial news writing.

The employee in this classification is responsible for developing and coordinating public information activities directed toward developing local and national public acceptance of the County's recreational, cultural, industrial and economic facilities. Work includes gathering, writing and editing material to be released to newspapers, radio broadcasters, periodicals, and to be used in speeches. Supervision may be exercised over clerical assistants by assignment and review of completed work. Assignments are received in general form through conferences with the department head or other administrative officials. Work is conducted with considerable independence and reviewed continuously for effectiveness through appraisal of public response.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Confers with administrative officials in planning public information and educational projects.

Originates and writes news articles for release to newspapers, radio and television broadcasters, periodicals and other publications.

Assembles information to be used in speeches and special reports.

Edits and supervises publication of a departmental newspaper or other publication of specialized or technical appeal.

Takes photographs for departmental publication, news releases and special purposes.

Confers with and advises administrative officials regarding the adoption of publicity projects and preparation of data for use in special reports and publication; assembles and condenses industrial news data; publishes newsletter depicting the advantages of the local industrial area.

Visits industrial plant sites and manufacturers' expositions, attends conferences and conventions to obtain prime source data relative to the industrial development of the local metropolitan area.

Directs the preparation of slides and motion pictures; prepares posters, charts and other illustrative devices.

Plans and writes special pamphlets and booklets on departmental objectives and activities.

Obtains and disseminates news material through interview and correspondence; participates in preparation for conventions and publicity events.

Condenses lengthy reports into brief and newsworthy copy.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of journalistic principles and practices, the techniques of planning, composing, and editing publicity material.

Thorough knowledge of English usage and the requirements of press, radio and television broadcasters.

Thorough 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 plan and organize informational programs.

Ability to edit and analyze informational material prepared by others.

Ability to create and maintain effective working relationships with the public, department directors, industrial representatives and the public media.

Skill in the use of photographic equipment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, English or related field. One year of professional experience in journalism, advertising, marketing or public relations is required.

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