Class Code: 00750

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES –

HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE

INFORMATION SPECIALIST 1

DEFINITION

Performs public information and/or public relations work of a straightforward nature for an agency; performs related work as required.

The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.

WORK EXAMPLES

Researches, plans drafts, edits and disseminates informational material to employees, state agencies and the general public.

Develops public information projects from general instructions to increase employee/public interest and understanding.

Interviews departmental officials and employees to obtain information about agency programs; writes and edits factual and special interest information for agency publications, news releases, annual and special reports.

Lays out and designs informational material by taking photographs, proofreading galley proofs, and making arrangements for printing to prepare pamphlets, brochures and other material.

Prepares radio tapes and/or television spots and short programs for general audiences and educational and informational presentations to special interest groups and employees by contacting speakers, serving as announcer, taping and monitoring speeches and panel or group discussions.

Replies by written or oral communication to requests received from the public, special interest groups, officials and members of the press for informational materials.

Works with other state agencies or organizations in a collaborative or advisory capacity to develop public informational materials of mutual interest and prepare and revise manuals, forms, reports and agency publications.

Organizes and personally conducts tours of agency facilities to enhance understanding and support of the agency or institution; works with public and private groups to promote activities of mutual interest at fairs and exhibits.

Maintains library and files of source materials; prepares manuscripts for books; compiles bibliographies by gathering and organizing materials for future use.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Knowledge of the general methods, principles and practices of public relations.

Knowledge of various methods used in the production and dissemination of written and graphic materials such as layout, typography, graphics, photography, audio/visual equipment, etc.

Knowledge of English punctuation, composition and grammar.

Knowledge of social and economic conditions.

Ability to write effectively and prepare accurate reports, to express oneself clearly, concisely and persuasively, orally and in writing.

Ability to comprehend and apply a large volume of written material to informational projects.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, officials and the general public.

Ability to develop skill in the use of cameras and audiovisual equipment.

Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Exhibits honesty and integrity. Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.

Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner. Committed to quality service.

Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Works with minimal supervision. Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Responds appropriately to supervision. Makes an effort to follow policy and cooperate with supervisors.

Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.

Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity. Fosters commitment and team spirit.

Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Listens to others and responds appropriately.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in journalism, public relations, graphics, or communicative arts;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting one year of full-time employment in planning and writing materials to disseminate information to the public through the media of press (newspapers, publications), radio/television and/or public speaking for each year of the required education.

NOTE:

Some agencies may require an applicant to present a portfolio of his or her writing, layout or other public relations efforts to demonstrate past experience and training.

Effective Date: 9/01 GR