Public Relations Specialist
Salary: starts at $22.88/hour (up to $26.62/hr.)
Who May Apply Direct:  Anyone may apply for this position.
Unit/Location:  Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs / Seattle Municipal Tower
Primary Duties: 
This position reports to the Manager of the Community Development and Outreach Team and helps to ensure customer access to programs and services, promote the value of the arts and culture in the City of Seattle and raise the visibility of the public benefit provided by the department. The position is responsible for assisting in the design and implementation of internal and external communication strategies, developing public information materials, helping to coordinate community outreach and media relations plans, and providing technical advice and assistance on public information and public relations matters to other units and department management.

Specific tasks associated with this position include:
Plan, research, write and edit monthly electronic newsletter.  Assist with production and distribution of funding applications, calls for artists, agency publications, public information/press packets, invitations and other materials.
Coordinate production activities with photographers, graphic artists, and other production personnel.
Initiates, arranges for, and implements a variety of outreach activities. Develops displays, sets up and staffs booths at events and evaluates results.
Manage media and outreach lists.
Assist with maintenance of Web site content and style.
Assist in the design and implementation of internal and external communication strategies.
Write and edit publications material as assigned.
Produce and distribute press releases and other media materials.  Maintain press clip file.
Assist with event management for Mayor’s Arts Awards, Arts Education Forum, Seattle Presents concert series at City Hall and public artwork dedications, etc.
Respond to requests for information.

Actively promote and support key strategic Citywide initiatives including those related to fair and equal employment, diversity and justice in the workplace.

Required Qualifications:
Requires one year professional experience in public relations, marketing, journalism, or other field involving the preparation and distribution of public information materials and a Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class). 
Must have ability to collect, analyze, and summarize information, have a demonstrated excellence in writing and oral communication skills, be able to correct written products for complete accuracy; knowledge of AP style required.  Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality, be flexible in a rapidly changing environment; to manage stress and conflict, and maintain composure when under tight deadlines.; Need to possess excellent organizational skills, have ability to perform a wide variety of tasks, and be highly detail oriented.  Must have proficiency with computers and software applications including Word, Excel, and some experience with Access or similar database programs.  Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility is required.
Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate their commitment to create and sustain a workforce free of racism and discrimination and that values multiculturalism and diversity as a workforce and community asset. 

Desired Qualifications: 
The ideal candidate will have experience in media relations, event management, art and cultural policy, and arts administration. The work requires excellent problem-solving skills, ability to anticipate options and be able to complete assignments with minimal guidance; and have demonstrated reliability for performing in a business, not-for-profit or government environment. 

How to Apply:  No calls, please.
Beginning July 22 through August 12, 2007, you may apply online at: http://www.seattle.gov/personnel/employment/

Refer to Job #ART-702768.  If you cannot apply on-line you may complete an application available at the Personnel Department, Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Avenue, Suite 5400, Seattle, WA 98124-4028, and drop it off at the same location.

 

Deadline: August, 12, 2007
Organization: Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs
PO Box 94748
700 Fifth Ave., Suite 1766
Seattle, WA 98124-4748
Phone: (206) 684-7171
Fax: (206) 684-7172
Email: arts.culture@seattle.gov
Website: www.seattle.gov/arts