Information Specialist

Job Details

Hiring Organization	Texas Department Of State Health Services
Post Name	Information Specialist
Qualification	Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in journalism, communications, public relations, English, or a related field.
Industry	Government
Employment Type	Full Time
Work Hours	8 Hours
Salary	USD 4023 To USD 5000 Per Month
Location	San Antonio , Texas, United States 78229

Under the supervision of the Preparedness and Response Program Manager, the Regional Communications Specialist position will coordinate, prepare, implement and manage the Public Health Region’s (PHR) strategic communications plan.

The Regional Communications Specialist will participate in a variety of initiatives encompassing communication strategy, web/intranet support, external campaigns, writing, editing, creative thinking, multimedia conceptualization, and implementation.

This position requires innovative thinking in the development and implementation of a strategy to build and maintain partnerships with community-based organizations, and programmatic partners.

Corporations, other governmental agencies, and cultural institutions to further the work of the public health programs operating across the PHR and will develop and implement PHR-specific social media platforms.

The position requires good interpersonal skills and the ability to develop strong networks in order to appropriately integrate communications strategies from multiple public health programs across the region.

The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that emphasizes innovation through new ideas, striving for excellence by taking pride in their work, embracing differences as a source of strength, accomplishing more through partnership, leading by example, and learning for continuous improvement.

Serves as a member of the Region 8 Incident Management Team in the Regional Public Health and Medical Operations Center (RPHMOC). Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions:

40%) In coordination with the central DSHS office, develop content for use on DSHS communications platforms to complement agency public and stakeholder communications regarding public awareness of health issues, health promotion, health education, and DSHS services.

Develops PHR web content and social media content and participates in usability testing and enhancements. Coordinates and evaluates the preparation and distribution of PHR publications, news and informational releases, talking points and scripts, advisories, newsletters, fact sheets, and content for Web sites and social media.

Coordinates the illustrative, photographic, or audiovisual content of products utilizing agency-issued AV equipment. Analyzes content for accessibility and recommends changes to make content accessible and remediate accessibility issues.

Posts content that has been approved by regional leadership across the DSHS PHR community and through the DSHS PHR communication platforms (including social media accounts). Monitors content on social media sites and prepares content for posting, such as broadcast messages, and may prepare general comments.

Moderates and participates in online conversations, including answering questions from the public and connecting people to services. Monitors the DSHS PHR communication accounts in compliance with applicable Health and Human Services and DSHS media policies.

(20%) Evaluates the implementation of DSHS PHR program communication strategies and provide recommendations for improvement as appropriate. Develops, oversees, and evaluates the long-term goals and strategies for DSHS PHR communication initiatives.

Documents evaluate, recommend, and monitor processes and procedures related to the DSHS communication and social media policy and activity. Oversees responsibility for communication risk mitigation and management in the DSHS PHR and develops plans to manage public communication risk across the PHR.

(20%) Develops, implements, and evaluates the DSHS PHR’s community engagement and partner engagement strategies across all program areas. Consults with and advises PHR leaders and staff about public information options and programs.

Markets programs to community and professional groups to coordinate, improve, and stimulate interest in PHR programs. Plans and executes public information programs, conferences, seminars, and workshops.

(15%) Creates and analyzes reports on social media and PHR website activity and its effectiveness. Develops or assists with developing strategies and tools to improve PHR’s social media presence.

Serves as the primary PHR liaison with the DSHS Press Office and DSHS Communications. Coordinates interviews of regional leadership or staff research sources, and ensures the completeness and accuracy of printed and online materials.

(5%) Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Participation may require an alternate shift pattern, assignment, and/or location.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge and skill in Adobe Illustrator or similar
Knowledge and skill in Microsoft Publisher or Adobe InDesign
Knowledge of agency functions, policies, and procedures
Knowledge of general professional writing principles and standards
Knowledge of news and communication media
Knowledge of various social media platforms
Knowledge of editing and preparing informational material and copy layout
Knowledge of publishing and broadcast industries
Knowledge of basic HTML and/or SharePoint administration
Knowledge of crisis communications planning, messaging, and strategy
Skill in editorial and design concepts and practices
Skill in using a personable and approachable verbal communication style with the ability to quickly gain the respect of staff at all levels; practices attentive and active listening
Skills in the use of a computer and applicable software
Skill in researching, planning, developing, and evaluating communications materials
Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities
Ability to write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles
Ability to think creatively and support creative thinking in others
Ability to think strategically about communications
Ability to respond to requests with a sense of urgency, partiality, accountability, integrity, and speed
Ability to research and prepare information
Ability to design communication plans and materials related to the goals and priorities of the agency
Ability to compose usable content for the Web and social media
Ability to prepare copy and scripts
Ability to design broad communications plans and materials
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to work collaboratively and build strong relationships with staff
Ability to evaluate the work of others

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Texas Class C driver’s license or equivalent from another state with the intent to obtain a Texas driver’s license.

Initial Selection Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in journalism, communications, public relations, English, or a related field.

At a minimum, 2 years of experience in communications, web content, social media content, or organizational communication strategy development and execution. Prefer experience with government or large organization communication programs and strategies.

Prefer experience related to public health, health disparities, and social determinants of health. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Additional Information:

As part of the interview process, applicants will be required to complete a 1-hour in-basket exercise.

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