Description

Under general supervision, is responsible for administering a wide range of public relations activities. Makes decisions within a delegated scope of public information activities, establishing and maintaining effective public relations with the media representatives and public. Advises other members of the department on media relations, approaches to key issues and appropriate messages the support the department’s mission, consistent with law and the judicial process.

Examples of Duties

This position reports directly to the Chief of Police. Duties may include, but are not limited to the following: Assists staff and personnel with media relations; provides information to the news media on breaking stories during normal working hours; works as a liaison with the media for story development with department personnel as well as conducting sound bites and radio interviews; prepares and disseminates information to the media, general public and other agencies as required to include police functions and promotions, requested materials and police programs, coordinates with department staff and personnel regarding media queries and strategies; gathers information to create public relations tools such as news releases, public service announcements and other detailed information to promote police services, programs and events; attends and videos police events and activities; updates and maintains any social media outlets utilized by the department to include Twitter, Facebook or the department’s web page; performs other duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience equal to a four year degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public relations, media communications, electronics, video photography/editing, TV/film journalism or a related field; additionally, if sworn officer, must be rank of Sergeant or higher.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: At least general knowledge of police methods and practices; knowledge of media and public relations principles; techniques and practices of public speech; knowledge of social media tools such as Facebook and Twitter; production of written documents with clearly organized thoughts using proper sentence construction, spelling, grammar and punctuation; thorough knowledge of the geography of the City and location of important facilities; general knowledge of the rules and regulations of the police department; general knowledge of Federal, state and local laws and ordinances; ability to deal courteously with the public and the media.

Supplemental Information

Possession of a valid State of North Carolina driver's license.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• 401a Contribution (employee match not required)
• Bus Pass Program
• Education Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Suggestion Program
• Family and Medical Leave
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Group Health Insurance
• Group Dental Insurance
• Jury Duty Leave
• Life/Accidental Death Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Military Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Promotion from Within
• Retirement/Pension Plan (State of NC)
• School Leave
• Shared Leave
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Sick Leave
• Training
• Vacation Leave
• Wellness Program

The City of Winston-Salem's employment practices are guided by federal, state, and local rules and regulations guaranteeing employment opportunities to all persons without regard to and prohibiting discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, religion, political affiliation or beliefs, national origin or handicap, unless a bonafide occupational qualification exists.