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NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY
HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES

POSITION CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION


Position Classification Title: Public Information Officer
Position Classification Code: J2017
Job Family: External Affairs
Pay Level: 06
Exempt Status: Exempt
This description is intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed. It is not intended to be a complete list of specific duties of any particular position. Duties, responsibilities and bargaining unit eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.
Purpose of Classification:
Public information officer responsible for advancing NMSU's reputation through strategic communication consistent with the university's goals. Effectively communicate to key internal and external audiences the most important news about NMSU. Under general supervision executes a variety of broad-based public relations initiatives designed to enhance the relations of the university with its constituents. Produces and disseminates information via multiple media such as audio/video, on-line services including social media, news releases, magazine articles, opinion articles and speeches. Directs, produces, and coordinates the production of publications and other relevant public relations materials. May develop and coordinate website/internet resources.
Standard Duties:
Assists in implementing communication strategies to influence targeted audiences through media at all levels and via the Web. Writes and edits news stories. Develops, coordinates and implements public relations and public information activities; establishes and maintains positive, effective operating relationships with a variety of stakeholders including media representatives, faculty, staff and administration at the university, and the public; responds to media and public inquiries by gathering and disseminating information; completes special assignments in support of the university. May serve as spokesperson to the press or public. Assists and advises administration and staff regarding public relations issues; assists administrative officers in planning and formulating policies, strategies, and responses relative to institutional issues and crisis management. Responds to requests for information from media personnel and the public; disseminates information via the appropriate media. Writes, edits, reviews, and approves public relations materials including news releases, articles, speeches, on-line information services including social media channels. Designs, writes scripts, and oversees production of audio/video and/or printed promotional and public affairs materials; may supervise production budgets. Plans, develops, and/or coordinates production of university publications. Participates as appropriate in the planning, development, and/or implementation of web-based and other emerging communication technologies, methods, resources, concepts, and standards, within overall goals and parameters set by senior management. Coordinates and facilitates publicity activities and related services. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of journalism, public relations and general communications principles and practices. Knowledge of printing procedures and requirements. Knowledge of video and photographic production and editing. Knowledge of electronic communications applications, including the internet and social media platforms.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Skill in budget preparation and fiscal management. Skill in developing and utilizing internet information services. Organizing and coordinating skills.
Ability to develop and deliver presentations. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise. Ability to evaluate and edit the content, structure, and format of a range of written material. Ability to use independent judgment and to gather, manage and impart information to the media and various other internal and external audiences. Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials. Ability to write, format, and edit news and promotional materials in various print and electronic media. Ability to develop and maintain documents using various electronic media.
Minimum Qualifications:
   Education- Bachelor's degree in a related field.
   Experience- Five (5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.
   Equivalency- None
   Certifications/License-
   Departmental Requirements-
   Special Requirements-