Public Information Specialist

Position Details

Position Public Information Specialist Full Time/Part Time Full Time Job Type Regular Position Summary
The increased need to provide the public with unbiased, credible information on issues related to climate change, forest and watershed health, and catastrophic wildfires requires that NMFWRI have a public relations program. NMFWRI will hire a communications coordinator with the skills to craft media releases, prepare literature and develop social media programs that will inform the public on the importance and goals of forest restoration using social media platforms, graphic design, marketing, advertising, and other public relations techniques. This position will also help increase the awareness among the public, state and federal agencies, and non-profits of NMFWRI’s activities and goals. This person will help NMFWRI staff create, develop and bring to life compelling forest and watershed restoration stories and narratives across New Mexico. Duties and Responsibilities
· Responsible for increasing visibility and awareness of NMFWRI and its programs through online and social media, press and media, radio and other public relations efforts.
· Responsible for developing media-driven approaches for communicating issues and activities related to the health of New Mexico’s forests and watersheds
· Manage updates and changes to NMFWRI’s website.
· Manage and produce content for NMFWRI’s social media communications, including Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
· Coordinate NMFWRI’s media relations efforts and serve as point of contact for press and media.
· Find and execute opportunities to promote NMFWRI and its work through traditional and online media sources such as letters to the editor, op-eds, radio and blog posts.
· Assist in the development, design, and production of annual reports and other major NMFWRI publications, white papers and brochures.
· Manage NMFWRI’s photo library and assist in finding images for NMFWRI communications and marketing products.
· Help develop short videos showcasing NMFWRI conservation efforts, and showcasing NM community narratives.
· Develop video narratives that showcases NMFWRI’s efforts to build student capacity in forestry practices that have led to successful careers in natural resources
· Provide writing and editing support as needed, including for opinion pieces, press materials, and other documents.
Develop and manage email distribution list (constant contact or similar system) for NMFWRI
Coordinate with NMHU University Relations to avoid mixed messages and/or duplication of effort. Minimum Job Requirements
· EDUCATION : Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Journalism, Marketing, English, Media Arts, Natural Resources, or Related Field
· EXPERIENCE : 1 year of experience on the job working as a communications specialist and/or related field. 1 year experience managing websites and social media outlets. Preferred Qualifications
· EDUCATION : Master’s Degree in Communication, Journalism, Marketing, English, Media Arts, Natural Resources, or Related Field
· EXPERIENCE : 2 years’ experience working as a communications specialist and/or related field. 2 years’ experience managing websites and social media outlets. 1 years’ experience with Adobe Creative suite software. 1 years’ experience using Word Press.

• Bilingual- Spanish

Special Conditions for Eligibility
· Must have a flexible schedule, some travel may be required.
· Must have a current New Mexico driver’s license.
· Must provide a writing sample as part of the application. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
· Experience using various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc.
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community
· Experience communicating science to a lay audience
· Skill with computers and software such as Adobe’s InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat; Social Media software; Web software (WordPress); and Microsoft Office
· Ability to write newsletters, bulletins and other informational materials for distribution
· Ability to write and create compelling content that drives engagement across a variety social media channels
· Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and written. Knowledge of technical writing techniques. Excellent writing, proofreading and editing skills
· Ability to work independently Physical Demands
· Standing Frequently
· Sitting Frequently
· Walking (cross country) Infrequently
· Bending Frequently
· Squatting Infrequently
· Kneeling Infrequently
· Lifting (30lbs or less) Infrequently Working Environment
• Work is performed in a typical interior/office work environment;
• Work with frequent interruptions;
• Some travel may be necessary;
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk. Pay Rate $18.76 Work Location/Campus Center Las Vegas, NM Campus EEO Statement
New Mexico Highlands University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to the University values of diversity, accessibility, excellence, and responsiveness.

For disabled access or services call 505-454-3242 or email hr@nmhu.edu

Visit the link below for more information regarding affirmative action and equal opportunity:
Equal Employment Opportunity is THE LAW
Posting Number AS540P Open Date 10/01/2021 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicant
A complete online application must include: 1) Letter of interest/cover letter; 2) Resume; 3) Three (3) professional references in online application; 4) copies of unofficial transcripts, and 5) Writing Sample. Candidates who are invited for on-campus interviews will be required to submit official transcripts. References will be contacted in conjunction with on-campus interview. Upload required materials with online application. For disabled access or services, call (505) 454-3242 or contact Human Resources at hr@nmhu.edu NMHU IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Quick Link https://nmhu.peopleadmin.com/postings/6996 Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
   • Public Job Posting
   • Internal Job Posting
   • Agency Referral
   • Advertisement/Publication
   • Personal Referral
   • Website
   • Other
2. * Do you have a bachelor's degree?
   • Yes
   • No
3. * How many years of experience do you have in this type of position?
   • 0-1
   • 1-3
   • 3-5
   • 5-7
   • 7+
4. Are you available to work in the evening (6 pm to 10 pm)?
   • Yes
   • No
5. Are you available to work weekends?
   • Yes
   • No

Documents Needed to Apply
Required Documents

1. Cover Letter/ Letter of Interest
2. Resume
3. Unofficial Transcripts Conferring Required Degree
4. Writing Sample

Optional Documents