Visual Communications Specialist I/II

Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of specialized assignments using advanced graphic, editing, manipulation, and typography software.
• Researches, develops, adapts, automates, and prepares charts, graphics, database reports, forms, memos, logos, banners, brochures, pamphlets, letterheads, procedural manuals, slide shows, specialized documents, and other items.
• Assists with development of outreach material; coordinates, identifies needs, and provides consultation on layouts, graphs, charts, and color schemes; creates complex spreadsheets, database management systems, report formats, forms, ad hoc and record maintenance systems.
• Establishes and maintains a variety of files/archives, information systems, and program management tracking systems; including maintenance of media and technical library of publications, books, manuals, and internal publications.
• May serve as an in-house expert with respect to utilization of an assigned software package.
• Plans, coordinates, edits, and performs photographic, audio-visual, motion graphics, and video work including Live Stream productions.
• Transports, sets up, stages, operates, and breaks down audio, video, projection, and lighting equipment.
• Researches and recommends new technology and trends, software applications, materials, and techniques to meet agency graphic design needs; orders and maintains supplies/inventory and determines materials needed for assigned projects.
• Plans, creates, and monitors projects such as template design, on-line forms, master documents, procedural manuals, web pages, automated forms processing, and presentations.
• Recognizes and resolves routine hardware and software problems; performs problem solving, assessment, troubleshooting, and researching of technology, software applications, and setups.
• Assesses, develops, and conducts training and curriculum for departmental users on computer software and operating systems, automated applications, and applicable software applications; includes preparing lesson plans, activities, and teaching aids such as handbooks and visual aids.
• Manages, maintains, and updates the Agency intranet and County internet pages to provide accurate and current information to the community.
• Proofreads all work for spelling, grammar, content, and compliance with Agency standards; reviews final artwork to ensure layouts comply with design standards.
• Occasionally performs assignments in collaboration with other County departments or community agencies.
• Takes photographs of county sites (buildings, historical landmarks) and other subject matter relating to Merced County for visual communication and publications; prepares and modifies photographs for reproduction, printing, and displaying.
• Participates in in-service training and other staff development activities to increase technical knowledge and skill in software applications and utilities.

Qualifications

Visual Communications Specialist I

• Option I (Experience): Three (3) years of increasingly responsible full-time experience requiring proficiency in performing a variety of production work with computer word processing, database, spreadsheet, web page design, desktop publishing, or graphics software.
• Option II (Education + Experience): Equivalent to completion of a two (2) year Associate Degree from an accredited college or university with at least twenty-four (24) units in Office Administration, Computer Studies, or a closely related field and one (1) year of full-time experience requiring proficiency in performing a variety of production work with computer word processing, database, spreadsheet, web page design, desktop publishing, or graphics software.

Visual Communications Specialist II

• Option I (Experience): Two (2) years of increasingly responsible full-time experience performing a variety of computer processing and applications assignments requiring proficiency equivalent to a Visual Communications Specialist I with Merced County.
• Option II (Experience): Three (3) years of increasingly responsible full-time experience requiring proficiency in performing a variety of production work with computer word processing, database, spreadsheet, web page design, desktop publishing, or graphics software.

This job specification should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents may be required to follow other instructions and to perform other related duties as may be required by their supervisor.

Essential Functions

• Operate a personal computer, peripheral devices, scanners, printers, and other modern office equipment.
• Operate a camera for photography and videography and peripherals.
• Frequent use of hand-eye coordination including repetitive hand and arm motions.
• Consistently sits for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
• Lift and move with help objects weighing over 20 pounds.
• Occasionally bend or reach to obtain needed materials from shelving units.
• Conduct research, develop, adapt, automate, install, operate, and maintain department software applications.
• Communicate effectively with others in person and over the telephone.
• Analyze data, interpret policies, procedures, and regulations, and develop appropriate conclusions.
• Perform assignments which require previous experience and familiarity working with computer software programs in areas such as word processing, database, desktop publishing, and graphics.
• Maintain confidential information in accordance with legal standards and/or County regulations.
• Proofread and edit various documents for grammar usage, punctuation, and spelling.
• Establish and maintain document archives.
• Perform job duties under stressful conditions.
• Respond appropriately to situations.
• Regular attendance is an essential function.

Knowledge

• Personal computer operating systems, software, and database applications.
• Laws, rules, regulations, policies, and objectives of the Department.
• Methods and techniques used in researching, proofing, evaluating, gathering, organizing, and arranging data.
• Report writing and proper format and style.
• Principles of graphic design elements.
• Effective methods of training and presentation skills.
• Record keeping and time-management practices and procedures.

Abilities

• Learn and develop skills with the more advanced and complex capabilities of computer software programs.
• Prepare a variety of reports, correspondence, documents, statistical data, graphs, and charts using a computer and software packages.
• Provide training and assistance for others in computer and software use.
• Read and understand detailed and complicated instructions and software manuals.
• Organize work schedules and budget time efficiently.
• Work productively under time pressure and with interruptions.
• Exercise tact when dealing with others.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.