Public Relations Specialist

at  Fort Pierce Utilities Authority

SALARY IS JUST ONE COMPONENT OF FPUA’S EXCELLENT TOTAL COMPENSATION PACKAGE. AS AN ORGANIZATION, ONE OF OUR TOP PRIORITIES IS TO MAINTAIN THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF OUR EMPLOYEES AND THEIR FAMILIES. TO ACHIEVE THIS GOAL, WE OFFER MARKET LEADING BENEFITS AS SUMMARIZED UNDER THE “BENEFITS” TAB ABOVE THE DESCRIPTION WITHIN THIS JOB POSTING. THE SALARY RANGE SHOWN REPRESENTS THE MINIMUM TO MIDPOINT SALARY FOR THIS POSITION. THE ACTUAL SALARY OFFERED WILL DEPEND ON QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

Responsible for assisting the Public Affairs & Sustainability Manager in performing activities that will enhance community engagement and communicate community-wide utility service programs. Coordinates internal and external communications, focusing on utility-wide issues, employee understanding, community relations and governmental affairs. Promotes a positive employee and public image of FPUA; writes and edits news releases; creates marketing materials for FPUA marketing initiatives with an eye for cohesive company-wide branding; and supports preparation of all FPUA publications. Reports to the Public Affairs & Sustainability Manager.

Must possess:

• extensive knowledge of social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.).
• experience in project management and execution of public relation campaigns and/or initiatives.
• experience in copywriting and editing.
• working knowledge of MS Office; photo and video-editing software.
• exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• exceptional presentation and public speaking skills.
• a creative, yet practical mind.

Ability to:

• be a self-starter and initiate change.
• express complex ideas and concepts simply, clearly and concisely either verbally or in written form.
• work independently with minimal supervision.
• prepare and deliver effective presentations before civic, professional and other community groups.
• react to change productively and to handle multiple tasks, as assigned.
• develop and analyze statistical data developed from computerized reports.
• create and maintain accurate and detailed files and records in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and similar programs.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a four-year degree in Communications, Public Administration, Public Relations, Marketing or other closely related area of study. Five years of relevant work experience, preferably in the utility industry or public sector. Must possess excellent writing and editing skills, advanced skills in Microsoft Office applications, and a sound knowledge of social media and publishing software. Excellent interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work as a part of a team are essential.
A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted in lieu of some of the minimum qualifications.
(NOTE: There are also secondary functions which the employee will be required to perform.)
Assists the Public Affairs & Sustainability Manager in conveying news, information, events, meetings, and other services to the community and within the organization.
Works with FPUA departments in the preparation and dissemination of news/media items.
Supports the preparation and distribution of all FPUA publications to include an Annual Update Report, informational brochures, bill inserts, direct mail pieces, advertising, audio/video presentations and other materials as needed to keep employees and residents informed of FPUA activities.
Coordinates and edits information on FPUA’s website and social media sites. Ensures website and social media content is up-to-date, accurate and timely.
Responds to inquiries or coordinates responses on all FPUA social media channels.
Manages media relations and requests.
Prepares press releases and media information packets regarding FPUA operations and business.
Assists with coordinating public information for disasters and emergencies with appropriate public safety staff and the public. Arranges media briefings with key FPUA leadership when necessary.
Coordinates and responds to specific requests for information about FPUA from other utilities, government organizations, businesses, customers, Department Heads, media, and the general public.
Assists with publicity for newsworthy events and such activities that may be directly related to critical utility issues, rates, special programs, customer service issues and conservation.
Facilitates FPUA contact with community organizations and individuals by keeping groups informed of FPUA services and activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Please refer the Job description for details