PUBLIC INFORMATION COORDINATOR

Date: Feb 19, 2025

Req ID: 47350

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72205

Category: AR NATURAL RESOURCES COMM

Anticipated Starting Salary: $40,340

Position Number: 22135146
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: Open Until Filled
Anticipated Starting Salary: $40,340
Marketing & Communications

Hiring Authority:

#1 Natural Resources Drive

Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: 501/219-6362

Email: alex.johnston@agriculture.arkansas.gov

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Class Code: P013C

Grade: GS07

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $40,340.00 - $64,343.00

Summary

The Public Information Coordinator is responsible for overseeing public relations activities and developing and administering educational and informational programs related to the operation of an organization in state government. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Functions

Supervises subordinate public relations staff by making work assignments, establishing deadlines, providing instructions, reviewing work performed, and evaluating employee performance. Plans, develops, and directs the distribution of educational and promotional material concerning the organization by reviewing and approving articles, news releases, publications, and program exhibits, proofreading copy, and arranging for distribution. Presents educational and informational programs to civic organizations, governmental agencies, conservation groups, schools, and the general public, to increase awareness of the mission and function of the organization. Develops formal training programs and materials and conducts training for business leaders, government officials, organization staff, and the general public concerning organizational programs. Coordinates conferences and special events by securing speakers, planning agendas, approving entertainment and facility arrangements and contracts, and evaluating impact and success of events. Works with news media to coordinate coverage of activities and events by issuing invitations and press passes, accommodating media personnel, preparing press guides, and handling problems and schedule changes. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

Some in-state travel is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of supervisory practices and procedures. Knowledge of public relations principles and practices. Knowledge of the principles and practices of journalism. Knowledge of publication requirements and procedures. Knowledge of managerial and supervisory practices and techniques. Ability to plan, develop, and conduct organization educational and promotional programs. Ability to oversee organizational publication activities. Ability to coordinate conferences, special events, and media coverage activities.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in public relations, journalism, communications or a related field; plus two years of experience in public relations, journalism, communications or a related field, including one year in a supervisory or leadership capacity. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

Must possess a valid Arkansas drivers license.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of social media and outreach practices and techniques.
Strong project and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
Knowledge of video production and photography.
Ability to deliver creative content.
Excellent copywriting and communication skills.
Knowledge of SEO, keyword research and Google Analytics.
Knowledge of online marking channels.
Analytical and multitasking skills.

Job Duties:

Develop and manage social network plans to include publishing calendars, social media objectives, messaging, and creation of visuals to align with marketing team strategies.
Monitor topics, threads, and discussions of company, stakeholders.
Measure and report activity and brand presence.
Propose and develop social media campaigns.
Create original text content.
Create video and photographic content.

The Public Information Coordinator for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is responsible for managing and enhancing the department’s public image through various communication channels. This includes overseeing social media platforms, crafting and distributing press releases, and coordinating media outreach efforts to inform the public about agricultural programs, policies, and initiatives. The coordinator works on developing and maintaining consistent branding, ensuring messaging aligns with the department’s goals. Additionally, they collaborate with stakeholders to organize public outreach campaigns, events, and community engagement activities to promote agricultural awareness and support.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.