The job of a Communications Officer is done for the purpose/s of directing the district's public relations and communication activities; planning, developing, implementing, and directing all the internal and external communications; producing district wide publications and web sites; and coordinating media and community relations events.

This job reports to DESIGNATED ADMINISTRATOR.

Essential Functions
Compiles data from a wide variety of sources (e.g. community groups, Board, staff/departments, etc.) for the purpose of analyzing issues, ensuring compliance with organization policies and procedures, and/or monitoring program components.

Consults with appropriate departments on internal/external communications issues and the production of publications and presentation materials for the purpose of ensuring agency-wide communication are in compliance with stated policies and procedures.

Creates and implements crisis communications plan and communications issued at the district and/or site levels in times of emergency for the purpose of identifying the relevant issues and recommending or implementing a plan of action; and ensuring timely and effective communication regarding incidents or situations which impact the District.

Establishes and maintains positive relationships with the media (e.g. maintain media contact list, assist the press with developing stories, etc.) for the purpose of enhancing the relationship of the district and media.

Facilitates meetings, workshops, seminars, etc. (e.g. social media/communication training, etc.) for the purpose of identifying issues, developing recommendations, supporting other staff, and serving as a District representative.

Oversees assigned program and/or departmental responsibilities (e.g. website, public cable television channel, marketing materials, newsletters, etc.) for the purpose of achieving organizational objectives, and ensuring compliance with legal, and financial requirements.

Participates in meetings, professional associations, develops networks, workshops, seminars, conferences, etc (e.g.. , etc.) for the purpose of conveying and gathering information regarding a wide variety of subjects required to carry out public relations functions.

Performs personnel functions (e.g. interviewing, evaluating, training, supervising, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining adequate staffing, enhancing productivity of personnel and achieving objectives within budget.

Prepares a wide variety of documents and written or electronic materials (e.g. press releases, newsletters, service guides, annual reports, editorials, videos, speeches, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities and issues, conveying information, meeting compliance requirements, and/or providing supporting materials.

Researches a variety of topics (e.g. public policy, education code constraints, labor cases, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and established guidelines; securing information for planning; and/or responding to requests.
 
Serves as a liaison between the district and media representatives, community organizations and the public for the purpose of conveying information, publicizing events, and enhancing the relationship of the district and the community.

Marginal Functions
Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in a job-related field.
• Three (3) years of job-related experience.
• Any other combination of education, training, and experience, which demonstrates that the applicant is likely to possess the required skills, knowledge, or abilities, may be considered.

• Valid Class C Driver's License and availability of private transportation.

SKILLS are required to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: operating standard office equipment including utilizing pertinent software applications; planning and managing multiple projects; maintaining accurate records; and performing above average clerical and recordkeeping work.

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform algebra and/or geometry; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: K-12 educational system; laws, rules, regulations and policies of the district and the school; organizational and time management; correct English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation; correct form for business correspondence and report writing, marketing and branding strategies; principles and practices of media relations and public relations; and graphic design standards, principles and maintenance.

ABILITY is required to schedule a significant number of activities, meetings, and/or events; routinely gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is moderate. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: communicating with diverse groups; meeting deadlines and schedules; setting priorities; working as part of a team; flexible to changing working conditions; making quick and accurate decisions; working with multiple projects; dealing with frequent interruptions and changing priorities; maintaining confidentiality; and facilitating communication between persons with frequently divergent positions; and work extensive off hours to support Emergency Communications.

Responsibility
Responsibilities include: working independently under broad organizational guidelines to achieve unit objectives; managing a department; monitoring budget expenditures. Utilization of resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the organization's services.

Work Environment
The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 60% sitting, 20% walking, and 20% standing. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.