] Office of Human Resources - Montgomery County Public Schools

OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT → CLASSIFICATION → COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

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Communication Specialist, Public Information Office

MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLASS DESCRIPTION
OFFICIAL TITLE: Commnctn Spec/Web Producer CODE: 5505 SQ/OQ: Optimal Qualified
WORKING TITLE: Communication Specialist, Public Information Office GRADE: 21 MONTHS: 12
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: Under direction, organizes and executes the work of the office to respond to Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) requests. The work of the position includes writing and issuing press releases and media announcements; responding to media inquiries; crafting communications materials, system wide publications and reports, and supporting communications programs and special events. Responsible for researching, writing, and editing various materials for media and presenting information to the public and maintaining an office communications database.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the Maryland Public Information Act. The ability to work and plan both independently and collaboratively and complete assignments in a timely and efficient manner, frequently under pressure and deadline requirements. Ability to handle multiple projects and react quickly to communications needs. Excellent interpersonal, human relations, oral, and written communication skills required. Advanced knowledge of English usage, including grammar and composition. Demonstrated ability to develop materials, utilize multiple communication mediums and tools that enable a clear and consistent message to be disseminated and convey information to a community of diverse stakeholder groups. Bilingual/bi-literate preferred. Considerable knowledge of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Knowledge of and the ability to meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors degree required in communications, legal studies, public policy, journalism or English preferred. A minimum of three years of experience coordinating or responding to public information requests of governmental organizations. Combinations of applicable education, training and experience, which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position, may be considered.
CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) As required by the duties and responsibilities of the job.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) As is necessary to complete tasks on deadlines or to support the work of the office as it supports system wide events.
OVERTIME ELIGIBLE: No

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Note: (Incumbents may perform any combination of the essential functions shown below. This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge, or ability associated with this classification in every office, but is intended to accurately reflect the core job elements.)

Conducts internal research to locate records and/or documents held that relate to particular requests.

Reviews information to ensure appropriate content and identify related risks.

Liaise, advise and negotiates with information owners concerning the potential release of sensitive and complex information.

Informs and continuously updates stakeholders of the legal requirements to provide the public with company information in compliance with the Maryland Public Information Act.

Ensures that office Directors are fully briefed regarding requests and responses.

Develops and maintains project plans and calendars.

Acts as project lead for various events or publications that are the responsibility of the office, as requested.

Prepares, edits, and coordinates stories for the MCPS website, MCPS Social Media, or other online publications.

Performs related duties consistent with the scope and intent of the position.
Class Established: 6/2017
Date(s) Revised:
Last Reviewed:

This description may be changed at any time.