public safety officer Winston-Salem, NC
Job description
The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office is currently seeking a dynamic, public relations professional with a strong background in social media and communications. This position is part of a PR team and will work closely with media outlets and partners to disseminate information of interest to the public. Because position serves an elected official, work must be nonpolitical.
An employee in this class is the primary point of contact for media, professional and civic organizations, special interest groups, government agencies, other law enforcement agencies and the public. Work includes preparing press releases, developing plans, securing resources, and crafting messaging appropriate for target audiences as related to Forsyth County Sheriff's Office jurisdiction, mission, operations, statistics and accomplishments. Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated through conferences, reports and the overall effectiveness of the program.
Four-year degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, Public Administration, Business Administration or related field and two years relevant experience. A higher education level may be considered as a substitution for all or part of the experience requirement. A four-year degree outside of the relevant academic field plus additional years of relevant experience may also be considered. The preferred candidate will have excellent oral and written communication skills, public speaking competency, and ability to build community relations.
Facilitates public relations, internal and external messaging for the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office.
Researches, prepares and disseminates information to media and other interested entities.
Monitors and manages print, visual and social media sites ensuring messaging to each is relevant, accurate and timely.
Prepares memorandums, announcements, press releases, event notifications, articles, presentations, speeches and coordinates and prepares official responses to inquiries.
Establishes, develops and maintains contact with media, public, professional and civic organizations and other special interest groups to promote activities and programs.
Coordinates and prepares information during emergency situations to keep public informed.
Works with incident commanders and command staff in crafting information for dissemination.
Coordinates media coverage at incidents and other agency events.
Facilitates photography and videography during official events for future presentational needs.
Communicates verbally with public and media outlets on activities.
Holds press conferences and speaks on behalf of the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office.
Develops policy driven protocols for disseminating information during critical incidents and emergency situations.
Organizes special events in collaboration with community activities throughout Forsyth County.
Monitors law enforcement activity throughout Forsyth County and the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office involvement, anticipating possible media interest.
Closely monitors investigations being covered by the media to craft messaging appropriate for dissemination.
