Communications Specialist

Nature and Variety of Work

Under the direction of the Administrative Judge, the primary function of this position is to collect, formulate, create, and disseminate information to external and internal stakeholders, including, but not limited to, staff, the general public, and justice partners. These functions include daily events-related assignments, scheduling, photography, writing, chairing, and coordinating the special projects committee, as well as editing communications projects that contribute to, benefit from, and enhance the messages of the Circuit Court for Prince George's County.

Examples of Work

Duties include, but are not limited to:

Serves as the first point of contact for public and media inquiries into gaining access to live court cases.

Drafts communications and responses to media and public inquiries for review by the Administrative Judge.

Develops and prepares well-designed finished materials for approved messaging, such as speeches, media advisories, press releases, articles, scripts, bulletins, pamphlets, Employee Internal newsletters, weekly messages, emergency messages, flyers, brochures, publications, and Annual reports for the Maryland Judiciary.

Coordinates, schedules, writes, produces, photographs, and edits content for various events, including ceremonies, public communications campaigns, and other departmental events.

Serves as the Circuit Court's liaison to the Administrative Office of Courts (AOC) on various communication matters; coordinates public appearances, lectures, and/or exhibits.

Disseminates emergency communications internally and externally at the direction of the Administrative Judge, including, but not limited to, inclement weather notifications and Courthouse closure messaging.

Creates videos/graphics for the Courthouse digital boards to highlight holidays and commemorative months.

Drafts and designs special messages from the Administrative Judge to highlight diversity and inclusion initiatives, holidays, and months.

Manages the Circuit Court's social media accounts (i.e., Instagram, YouTube, etc.).

Maintains and updates pertinent information on the Circuit Court's website.

Coordinates with Judges and their staff to provide accurate information that is part of the public record in a timely fashion helps you stay abreast of high-profile cases and respond to press inquiries.

Serves as the Circuit Court's liaison to the Administrative Office of Courts (AOC) on various communication matters; coordinates public appearances, lectures, and/or exhibits.

Takes photographs at Courthouse events.

Assists in writing, editing, and posting content for social media sites, blogs, and websites.

Establishes and maintains a contact distribution list for mass communications to Courthouse occupants, the Bar Association, and public justice partners.

Serves as the chair of the Special Projects Committee and leads planning for the following events: Black History Month, Women's History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Employee Appreciation events, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Employee Holiday Celebration, and all other events assigned by the Administrative Judge.

Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field, PLUS two (2) years of professional experience in journalism, public relations, or a closely related field. Must be proficient in desktop publishing, video editing, and graphic/document design software such as Canva and Constant Contact.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and use professionalism, tact, diplomacy, and competency in dealing with the public, news media, Judges, attorneys, public officials, and co-workers.

Ability to effectively write, edit, and design reports and other publications covering a wide range of subject matters.

Ability to effectively speak in public.

Ability to gather and verify news information through interviews, observation, and research.

Possesses excellent interpersonal, organizational, writing, and technical skills.

Additional Information

All applicants are subject to a background check.

The Circuit Court for Prince George's County is a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

**A request for ADA accommodations for interviews should be made at the time of notification of the interview.**