Salary
$61,703.05 - $97,992.35 Annually
Location
Hennepin County
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
23CESA19MV80
Department
Communications
Opening Date
09/08/2023
Closing Date
9/22/2023 11:59 PM Central
Description
Hennepin County is seeking a Principal Communications Specialist to create content and implement strategic communications for the Law, Safety and Justice line of business. This person will work closely with subject matter experts in the county’s justice agencies to consult on internal and external communications needs, develop communications strategies, and lead complex communications projects. This position will also respond to information requests and support crisis communications as directed.
Candidates should be strong writers and verbal communicators, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate and commitment to disparity reduction. Candidates with communications experience in the justice system are strongly encouraged to apply.
Current Hennepin County employees who refer a candidate hired into an open competitive position may be eligible for a $500 referral bonus. For more information visit employee referral program.
Location and hours:
This position is hybrid and will be performed on-site at the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 South 6th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55487 and remotely as job duties require. Work hours will typically be Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. with occasional evenings and/or weekends. While this position is designated as hybrid, based on current requirements hires must reside in or relocate to Minnesota or Wisconsin.
New employees who are hired into remote or hybrid positions between January 2, 2022 to December 31, 2024, will receive $500 toward the cost of establishing consistent internet connectivity, payable upon completion of 6 months of employment. About this position type:This is a full-time, benefit earning position.This position is internally classified as a Communications Specialist, Principal.Click here to view the job classification specification.In this position, you will:
· Work with subject matter experts in Law, Safety and Justice departments, including Adult Representation Services and the Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation, to create and implement communications strategies, plans, and key messages for internal and external audiences.
· Write and produce strategic, multi-channel communications and products according to best practices (i.e., usability, accessibility, plain language, and branding).
· Manage projects from intake to implementation and coordinate necessary supports and collaborators.
· Work collaboratively on projects and initiatives with other justice agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, and the Fourth Judicial District and Public Defender’s Office.
· Respond to information requests from community leaders, county administration, elected officials, jurisdictional partners, and the media.
· Represent the county in partner meetings and as spokesperson during crisis and media response efforts.
· Coordinate and deliver content that supports the county’s priorities of disparity reduction and climate action.
Need to have:
· One of the following:
o Seven years or more of related professional experience in strategic communications supporting a broad range of programs, projects, and services.
o Two years or more of college and five years or more of related professional experience in strategic communications supporting a broad range of programs, projects, and services.
o Bachelor's degree in journalism, English, communications, mass communications, marketing, media studies, graphic design, photojournalist, telecommunications, visual communications, public administration, and three years or more of related professional experience in strategic communications supporting a broad range of programs, projects, and services.
Nice to have:
· Experience:
o Working in communications or public relations within a law, safety or justice setting.
o Working under deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
o Responding in crisis situations.
o Performing media and public relations tasks (i.e., producing press releases, writing talking points, and identifying subject matter experts for interviews).
o Planning and creating messaging and multi-channel content for publication (i.e., photos, websites, social media, printed materials, presentations).
o Working independently and collaboratively.
o Using Microsoft Office Suite, SiteCore, SharePoint, Workfront, and/or GovDelivery.
About the departments:Hennepin County’s Law, Safety and Justice line of business includes law enforcement, criminal prosecution, legal representation for clients experiencing poverty, and correctional programs, and operates adjacent to the courts and public defenders.Hennepin County Communications provides strategic and creative services to help connect people and communities to county employees, programs and services. The department helps county business areas meet program and project goals and reach the right audiences by communicating clearly and engaging responsively. Our award-winning team of county communicators is dedicated to using best practices as well as innovative approaches to produce best in class communications products and services. About Hennepin County:Hennepin is the largest county government organization in Minnesota. Our employees work every day to improve the health, safety and quality of life for our residents and communities. All of our jobs align to one or more of our overarching goals -- that Hennepin County residents are healthy, protected and safe, self-reliant, assured due process, and mobile. Our employees receive a combination of generous benefits and positive workplace culture not found at other organizations. This includes meaningful work that impacts our community, competitive pay, work-life balance, a variety of benefits and opportunities to grow. Learn more at The Bridge (log in as Guest). Hennepin County envisions an organization where our commitment to diversity and the reduction of disparities is fundamental in providing excellent service to our community.This posting may be used to fill current and future vacancies. Invitations to interview will be based upon an assessment of education and experience. Your future. Made here.