Community Relations Officer

Recruitment #050523-MECA02-350600

Go Back View Benefits

Introduction

Make a Difference with DHSS

Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.

We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick-start your profession.

For more information, please visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/ today!

Summary Statement

The incumbent will be responsible for the development, and start-finish management of, various division communications (press releases, newsletters, website content/management) and communication projects (division templating, provider spotlights, public/media events, etc). The incumbent will sit in the Executive Programs and Grant Administration unit’s Education/Awareness Team within the Office of the Division Director and support division-wide efforts, as well as cross-division and department-level projects.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

  • Gathers, organizes, and formats information related to an agency's goals, objectives and services.
  • Promotes an agency's image consistent with the overall direction of the agency.
  • Coordinates timely and accurate responses and information to citizens, community groups or governmental agencies.
  • Encourages participation in the use of agency services.
  • Coordinates and conducts public meetings, media events or educational programs.
  • Ensures a mutual sharing of information with other agencies, media and the general public. 
  • May supervise staff.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Community Relations Officer
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

  1. Six months experience in public relations or media relations to establish and promote a positive image and inform or influence specific audiences through the use of internal and external communications such as public forums, print or electronic media, speech writing, writing/editing, marketing, advertising, or special events.
  2. Six months experience in gathering, organizing, formatting, translating, or interpreting information into forms more easily understood by the media or public, and disseminating the information through the use of print, broadcast or electronic media. 
  3. Six months experience in public speaking which includes gathering, preparing and presenting information to the public or media groups.
  4. Six months experience in developing, planning and directing public events, campaigns, programs, or services to meet community needs.
  5. Knowledge of developing policies, procedures or programs for dissemination of information to the public or media groups. 

Additional Posting Information

A writing sample will be requested at the time of interview.

Conditions of Hire

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our Job Seeker Resources.

DHSS does not provide employment-based sponsorship.

Benefits

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Selection Process

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.