MEDIA SPECIALIST

SUMMARY:

The Media Specialist is responsible for researching, writing, and coordinating the distribution of news releases, articles, and other publications. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Researches, prepares, and edits articles, press releases, public notices, brochures, speeches, and fact sheets concerning agency activities.

Designs and lays out publications, coordinates printing activities, and edits articles written by others for inclusion in agency newsletter or other publications.

Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with representatives of community, employee, and public interest groups.

Receives and responds to information requests from the media, web sites, conducts tours, and presents information to visitors concerning agency functions.

Plans, organizes, and/or attends conferences, seminars, workshops, and press conferences.

Maintains files of agency-related news articles, mailing lists, website updates, and directory listings.

Represents the agency during crisis situations, at trade shows, and other community activities.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of journalism. Knowledge of design and lay-out techniques. Ability to research, organize, and disseminate information. Ability to design, lay out, and edit news articles and other publications. Ability to maintain files. Ability to write descriptive and informative narratives. Ability to use computers to enter data and publish graphic materials.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, or a related area; plus one year of experience in journalistic activities or a related area.

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

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.