Public Relations Specialist I

Date Revised: 10/02/2017

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job title: Public Relations Specialist I

Job Category: Exempt

PCLS: 30053

Salary Grade: E

Summary

Incumbents in the Public Relations Specialist series organize, coordinate, and oversee public relations strategies in order to advance the profile and reputation of a program, department, and/or college. Incumbents build and maintain positive relations with the public, the press, and electronic media.

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

The Public Relations Specialist I reports to a Dean, Director, or Department Head. This classification has no supervisory responsibilities.

Typical Functions

1. Supports the University’s goals and objectives by developing, implementing, and delivering publications, press and media communications, special promotions, and general information.

2. Develops and maintains a comprehensive list of press, media, and community communication mediums; writes, produces, and distributes press kits, feature stories, public service announcements, and other items for department, college, or event.

3. Conducts media relations efforts; establishes and maintains contacts with key media personnel; develops and implements press conferences.

4. Researches, writes, edits, and distributes electronic and printed marketing communication materials.

5. Ensures publications match Utah State University’s branding position.6. Develops, coordinates, and executes multiple communication plans that support the

department’s initiatives and strategies.7. Develops website content.8. May assist in the development and implementation of special events and promotional activities.9. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.2. Knowledge of publishing procedures and requirements, including desktop publishing.3. Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate media activities and promotional events.4. Website/electronic media development skills.

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Public Relations Specialist I

Date Revised: 10/02/2017

JOB DESCRIPTION

5. Knowledge of journalism, marketing, and branding principles and techniques.6. Ability to work with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.7. Ability to read and interpret designs, specifications, and schematic drawings.8. Ability to transport and setup displays.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, public relations, advertising, communications, or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. Employees are regularly required to sit and often use repetitive hand motions. Employees may be required to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 pounds).

Fundamental Abilities

Within the scope and complexity of each position’s responsibilities, each incumbent is expected to possess and demonstrate the following abilities:

1. Communicating : Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing. 2. Problem solving : Analyzes information and evaluates results to select the best solution and solve

problems. 3. Monitoring : Measures performance of self; makes improvements and takes appropriate

corrective action.4. Critical Thinking : Comes to well-reasoned conclusions, solutions, and approaches to problems.5. Team Building : Works to create a team-based environment. Consistently demonstrates

cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers.6. Active Listening : Gives full attention when others are speaking; listens to understand, asks

questions as appropriate, and does not interrupt.7. Service Orientation : Actively seeks opportunities to help others.8. Conflict Resolution : Acts professionally when encountering customers who, at times, may be

frustrated.

Core Characteristics

As representatives of Utah State University and primary contributors to its mission, all employees are expected to demonstrate the following characteristics:

1.

2. Take initiative.3. Maintain confidentiality.

4. Be accountable.5. Behave ethically.

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Public Relations Specialist I

Date Revised: 10/02/2017

JOB DESCRIPTION

6. Be honest and trustworthy.7. Demonstrate a strong work ethic.8. Be inquisitive.9. Be detail oriented.

10. Be self-motivated.11. Efficiently manage multiple tasks.12. Be a team player.13. Be committed to improving USU.

Disclaimer This position description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.

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Public Relations Specialist I

Date Revised: 10/02/2017

JOB DESCRIPTION

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