Communications Specialist

Salary: $25.68 - $34.66 Hourly Location : Bolivia, NC Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 01312 Department: Communications Opening Date: 11/26/2024 Closing Date: 12/20/2024 11:59 PM Eastern About Us Brunswick County is a vibrant coastal community located in southeastern North Carolina with approximately 47 miles of idyllic beaches and an abundance of quaint countryside. While consistently ranked one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina, Brunswick County is steeped in history and hospitality, and both residents and visitors enjoy a laidback atmosphere, close-knit community, and plenty of coastal charm. Careers At Brunswick County we are committed to preserving our resources and enhancing the lives of our community through exceptional service. Join our team of talented staff and embark on a career where you will make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Our employees are our biggest asset, and we offer competitive wages, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for advancement. About this Opportunity Brunswick County is currently accepting applications for a Communications Specialist to join our Communications team. Under the direction of the Director of Communications, the Communications Specialist assists with the development and implementation of county-wide communication plans and projects. The Communications Specialist provides support and assistance with planning, developing, producing, and delivering high-quality communications materials. This position coordinates communications with focus on the County's identified focus areas of economic development, education, excellent government, growth and sustainability, healthy and safe community, and engagement and connection. Helps coordinate the collection of information related to open record requests and media inquiries. Conducts research and connects with county departments and partners to write clear and concise news releases for the media and public. Creates content for multiple social media outlets (including post copy, graphics, photos, and videos) and responds to user communications received via social media sites as appropriate. Takes and edits photos and videos of County activities and helps to prepare graphics and other materials for communications and public relations initiatives and projects. Assists with the development, design, publication, and distribution of materials explaining and promoting County programs, services, and initiatives, such as brochures, booklets, reports, newsletters, fliers, webpages, and other informational items. Provides guidance and training to staff and departments on appropriate use of the County's branding standards. Supports crisis/emergency communications during critical incidents and performs work during emergency/disaster situations. Education and Experience Bachelor's Degree in a communications-related field (i.e., journalism, public relations, communications, etc.) and 1-2 years of applicable experience, OR an Associate's Degree in a communications-related field (i.e., journalism, public relations, communications, etc.) and 2-3 years of applicable experience. Note: Other equivalent education or experience, including education and experience earned concurrently, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position will also be considered. The ideal candidate will: have strong writing and copywriting/editing skills; have willingness to learn and participate in new projects; have familiarity with AP Style rules and guidelines; have familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud applications (particularly Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Lightroom, and/or Premiere Pro); have basic (or better) understanding of website and graphic design; be able to distill complex topics into simple talking points and messages; be comfortable using cameras and have relevant experience with photography and videography. A valid NC or SC Driver License is also required. Physical Requirements Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines including computers, calculators, copiers, facsimile machines, etc. Must be able to exert 10 to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for periods of time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Additional Information Brunswick County provides equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by the law. Brunswick County is required by law to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired. Brunswick County participates in E-Verify to determine employment eligibility to work in the United States. All positions with Brunswick County require a valid driver's license and candidate must be current on Brunswick County taxes. A background check and drug screening will be conducted with a contingent offer of any position. Brunswick County employees are the county's most valuable asset. Therefore, it is the county's desire to offer a very rich and generous menu of fringe benefits. You can visit to see more detailed information on benefits. Brunswick County offers the following benefits: Vacation Leave Sick Leave Petty Leave Paid Holidays Longevity Pay Health Insurance 401 (k) Plan 457 Deferred Compensation Plan Term Life Coverage Long Term Disability Short Term Disability Flexible Spending Accounts Vision Insurance Universal Life Insurance Critical Illness Tuition Assistance