Public Information Specialist 1 (NY HELPS)

About the role

The New York State Division of Human Rights is seeking a Public Information Specialist to create and manage public information materials that explain the New York State Human Rights Law, the Division’s discrimination reporting and complaint process, and the rights and protections guaranteed to New Yorkers.

Responsibilities

• Draft, edit, and review public information materials, including press releases, talking points, remarks, statements, presentations, video scripts, newsletters, web content, fact sheets, brochures, and internal agency communications.
• Assist in coordination of media relations activities, including developing and maintaining press relationships, responding to press inquiries, creating media and pitching plans for agency initiatives, and tracking media coverage.
• Work with units across the Division to identify compelling stories, accomplishments, data, and information that demonstrate the Division’s impact.
• Monitor civil and human rights-focused news, compile daily news clip reports for internal circulation, and identify opportunities for the Division to engage with relevant news stories and events.
• Maintain the Division’s website by updating language and ensuring public-facing documents meet accessibility and quality assurance standards.
• Staff events where the Division is represented, including taking photos and videos and engaging with members of the media.
• Coordinate with other New York State agencies, community organizations, and external partners on shared communications initiatives.
• Organize and maintain internal documents and files for the Communications Unit.
• Serve as the team’s point of contact for vendors who translate vital documents into multiple languages.
• Assist with capturing content for social media, which may include filming content and/or acting as on-screen talent for videos produced by the Division.
• Perform other communications and public information duties as needed.

Requirements

This position is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). Eligibility includes:

• Current New York State Division of Human Rights employees with one year or more of permanent, contingent-permanent, or 55b/c service as a Public Information Specialist 1 seeking reassignment.
• Current New York State employees with one year or more of permanent, contingent-permanent, or 55b/c service in a position at SG-16 or above, eligible for transfer under section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law.

Non-Competitive Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in media, new media, English, communications, journalism, broadcasting, public relations, film, TV production, or digital marketing and two years of experience in public or governmental relations and/or writing or producing content for various media.
• A master’s or higher degree in the fields listed above and one year of experience in public or governmental relations and/or writing or producing content for various media.
• Six years of the experience described above.

Non-qualifying degrees: Political science, theater, sports science, and education.

Non-qualifying experience: Experience limited to blogs, personal business, or personal webpages/websites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to detail and alignment with organizational communications priorities.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and succinctly for a public audience.
• Experience pitching and securing news coverage with state, local, and national media outlets.
• Experience in government, civil rights, journalism, public affairs, or other relevant sectors.
• Ability to prioritize competing responsibilities and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including reporters, journalists, and Division leadership.
• Proven experience developing and delivering concise, informative, and well-crafted messaging.
• Proficiency in a language other than English.

Candidates must submit at least three writing samples showcasing a diverse portfolio of content, such as press releases, video scripts, speeches, or talking points.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including holiday and paid time off.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pension from the New York State Employees’ Retirement System.
• Affordable health care options.
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost.
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan.
• Access to NY 529 College Savings Program.

Note: Specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service.

Pay

Salaries are non-negotiable. Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the posted salary range.