Communications Officer

About the role

The Communications Officer is a newly created position within the Communications Unit that will support both the Press Secretary and Internal Comms staff, enhancing their ability to perform their principal tasks. Reporting to the Communications Director, the Communications Officer's time will be split on a flexible basis depending on the needs of the Unit.

Responsibilities

Assist the Press Secretary by:

• Following along and monitoring external communications for the agency, including press relations
• Helping to research and update media lists
• Managing media databases and whatever the Press Secretary deems necessary
• Identifying newsworthy moments, flagging communications risks, and aligning messaging
• Learning how to support agency leadership at press events and speaking engagements
• Preparing the Corporation Counsel and others for public appearances and media interviews
• Assisting in the Daily News Clips

Assist the Internal Comms Person by:

• Maintaining and updating the agency's publications
• Preparing for the annual report and awards booklet and any other publications as needed
• Supporting and maintaining whatever is necessary on both the internet and intranet sites
• Enhancing an engaging digital and social media presence

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of New York City and State Government and politics
• Knowledge of New York State and Federal Courts
• Experience interfacing and working with reporters, including responding to inquiries
• Existing relationships in media a plus, including but not limited to with editors, reporters, interviewers, researchers, etc. for television, radio, newspapers, magazines and social media
• Experience in developing/drafting strategic media and communications plans
• Interest in research, messaging, and promoting/explaining policy
• Familiarity with the profession and the materials of communication: press releases, remarks, op-eds, advisories, event briefings
• Superior writing/composition and editing skills
• Proficient in MS Office, Outlook, Word, Excel, Adobe, MS Teams, Zoom, and social media
• Research skills - attention to detail - ability to review, analyze, summarize, and visualize data

Minimum Qualifications

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
• High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
• Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.

Pay

$62,868.00 – $97,593.00

Schedule and Residency

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County.