Public Information Specialist

Agency

Dept of Public Instruction

Division

State Superintendent

Job Classification Title

Information & Communications Spec III (NS)

Position Number

60093686

Grade

NC16

About Us

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) is charged with implementing the state's public school laws for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade public schools at the direction of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction and State Board of Education.

Description of Work

This position supports NCDPI’s Office of Communications & Public Information by providing communication expertise to agency staff while working closely with public school communicators, district and charter leaders, stakeholders, the public and the media. The role serves on the front lines of media relations, responding to inquiries and supporting proactive storytelling. It translates complex data and reports into clear, accessible information for public awareness and helps tell the story of public education across the state. The position also identifies and develops compelling stories from across the agency and state, drafting a wide range of communications materials, including press releases, talking points, blog posts and remarks for agency leadership.

Job Responsibilities:

Research, analyze and synthesize complex data, reports and information into clear, accurate and accessible communications for public awareness. Identify, develop and elevate compelling stories from across the agency and NC public schools.

Serve as editor and content manager for the agency’s “Celebrate the Good” blog, sourcing stories, refining submissions and ensuring consistency in voice and quality.

Draft and edit a wide range of materials including press releases, talking points, remarks, FAQs, opinion pieces, presentations and other messaging for agency leadership.

Support agency leadership and departments in developing and executing effective communications plans for key initiatives, programs and announcements.

Assist with communications for agency events and initiatives, such as staffing, photography or social media support.

Coordinate and staff interviews for agency leadership, including developing briefing materials and messaging.

Coordinate and fulfill public records requests by working across divisions, including legal and IT, to gather and provide responsive materials in a timely and accurate manner.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Recruitment Range: $57,983.00 - $69,778.00

Management Preferences:

• Experience working in NC public schools, state government or media covering education.
• Experience drafting media releases, talking points and leadership communications.

Important: This posting closes at 11:59:59 PM the night BEFORE the End Date above.

If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Visit www.studentaid.gov to learn more.

Primary Purpose of the Office of Communications:
The Office of Communications & Public Information provides internal and external communication support for the Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education. Activities of the division include media relations; messaging, branding and content development for publications, news organizations, stakeholder audiences, social media and the agency website; responding to public records requests; publication sales; graphic designing and printing/duplicating; coordinating of face-to-face and virtual public outreach; maintaining and improving the agency’s public website and intranet; setting and implementing communication policies; and maintaining email distribution software and customer service software for agency use.

Minimum Education and Experience

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, public affairs, media, journalism, English, or related field from an appropriately accredited institution and four years of experience in communications, public relations, or publicity work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

Recruiter:

Tamara Lynn Cherry

Recruiter Email:

TAMARA.CHERRY@DPI.NC.GOV