Position Summary:
This is a full time (8 hours/day) position that works a 12 month work schedule.

The Communications Specialist works to implement the district's communication plans and strategies to continually enhance the relationship between the district and staff, students, parents and community by providing consistent, reliable, timely and engaging information via a variety of outreach methods. This position develops and distributes district communications in print and electronic formats; serves as a contact for news media, staff and the public; and assists in managing projects and events.

The ideal candidate has excellent written and oral communication skills and is able to produce clear, compelling and accurate content, on tight deadlines, with close attention to audience, goals, messaging and tone. The ideal candidate is able to effectively utilize traditional, current and advanced communication tools and technologies to enhance effective public relations. The ideal candidate has excellent project management skills, an upbeat and collaborative approach, and the ability to work well with interdepartmental teams and contractors.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including writing, editing and proofreading in Associated Press style, standard business styles and colloquial styles.
• Ability to quickly write clear, concise, grammatically and factually correct copy in varying styles.
• Ability to effectively and concisely summarize and communicate district goals, policies, practices and programs to staff and the community.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as work effectively in a team setting.
• Proactive self-starter with an ability to work in a high-energy, high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations, priorities and workloads.
• Excellent organizational, time management, project management and problem solving skills to coordinate and complete multiple simultaneous projects.
• Ability to effectively collaborate and communicate with other staff and stakeholders, including those from diverse language and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to exercise discretion in confidential and sensitive matters.
• Ability to respond effectively with calm, tact and sound judgment in stressful situations.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public relations, mass communications, and community relations including internal and external communications programs.
• Knowledge and understanding of public education goals, objectives and policies.
• Knowledge of the district and the local community.
• Experience and skill building and maintaining positive relationships with local news media.

Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field; and at least 3 years of experience in a full-time communications position working with both print and electronic media; or any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

All interested and qualified applicants must apply using our online application system. To learn more or apply, visit: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/laneedu/default.cfm