Job Description

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the Assistant Deputy Director of Communications and Public Relations and/or the Chief of Strategic Communications, the Public Relations Manager is responsible for complex operations that are central to the Authority’s primary mission. This includes developing, implementing, and maintaining a comprehensive external communications program that focuses on media relations, social media, and public information about California’s high-speed rail program. This position will oversee the management of the Authority’s Media Relations Section, including developing and implementing a statewide media relations program and will coordinate with the Authority’s regional media offices to maximize the favorability of public opinion in each region. This position will also oversee the Authority’s Digital Communications branch and the Public Records Act (PRA) program. The Public Relations Manager will be responsible for creating, implementing, and maintaining policies and procedures for the Authority’s Media Relations Section. These policies and procedures impact the Authority’s communication plan with internal and external customers including vendors, CalSTA, and the media.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

This position works primarily in the office, but limited telework may be available for California residents based on the requirements of the position. Hiring interviews may be available virtually, using teleconferencing or video conferencing options.

While working on-site, the individual works in a professional office environment, in a climate-controlled area which may fluctuate in temperature and is under artificial light. The individual will be required to use a computer, mouse, and keyboard, and will be required to sit for long periods of time at a computer screen. The individual must be able to focus for long periods of time, manage multiple tasks, adapt to changes in priorities, and complete tasks or projects with short notice. The individual must develop and maintain cooperative working relationships and display professionalism and respect for others in all contact opportunities.

Special Requirements

A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required for this position. An SOQ is a narrative that describes your qualifications for this position. The SOQ must be no more than two (2) pages, 12-point font, organized and numbered as reflected below. You must respond to all the following items. Applicants who do not follow these requirements may be disqualified from the hiring process.

1. Please provide an example of a successful media event that you organized on behalf of an agency and/or client. Include in your answer:

• How did you prepare for the event?

• What materials did you develop for the event for reporters and for background information and how did you prepare speakers or other attendees to go on the record?

• What was your role during the event and how did you direct staff/others during the event?

• After the event, what follow up actions did you take with reporters/attendees? Did you post anything on social media?

2. Working on requests associated with the California Public Records Act can often be complex and involve collecting and evaluating large quantities of information. Please describe your experience managing a similar project and/or event. How did you manage multiple priorities and deadlines, while also getting appropriate reviews? How did you monitor staff assignments?

Applications received without the SOQ will not be considered. Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be considered in the place of the SOQ. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, website searches, and third-party reviewers can be helpful in researching responses to the SOQ; however, by submitting your application for this position, you understand and acknowledge the SOQ you submit is your own work, in your own words, and accurately reflects your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences. Submitting an SOQ that is not your own may be cause for disqualification from the hiring process.

For assistance in completing the SOQ, please reach out to the Human Resources contact below.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Experience working with the news media, including but not limited to newspapers, TV broadcast, radio and podcasts.

• Basic knowledge of the California Public Records Act program.

• Policy analysis experience.

• Project management experience.

• Experience planning and organizing events.

• Experience consulting with and advising managers, supervisors, and administrators on sensitive topics.

• Experience developing written content for talking points, news releases, media, social media and other collateral.

• Experience working collaboratively in a team setting.

• Exceptional written and oral communications skills.

• Ability to multi-task, adapt to changes in priorities, and complete tasks on short notice.

• Able to resolve conflicts in a positive manner and maintain a high level of professional integrity.

Benefits

The State of California offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, a retirement pension, a telework stipend if applicable, and an array of other options.

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Application Information

The STD. 678 is required and each section must be filled out completely and thoroughly. Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any documents in your application package.

Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement. Dates printed on envelopes by mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology are not acceptable proof of the date the application and any other required documents or materials were filed.

If applying via postal mail or by dropping off your application, applicants must include JC-482012 and Public Relations Manager, 311-144-4969-001 in the 'Job Title' section of the STD. 678 to be considered for this position. Please indicate on the STD 678 your basis of eligibility in the "Explanations" field (i.e. SROA, surplus, reemployment, reinstatement, transfer, or list eligible.)

Surplus/SROA candidates must provide a copy of their surplus/SROA letter with their application. Consideration may be given to applicants on another Department's employment list, provided the criteria are met to transfer the eligibility from the employment list to the Authority's employment list. Training and Development assignments are not being considered at this time.

NOTE: To be considered for this job opportunity, applicants must be reachable on an employment list, have transfer eligibility, or have reinstatement eligibility. If you are new to California State service and you do not have list eligibility, you must take the exam for this classification. To gain employment list eligibility, please  click here to access the exam bulletin.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required to apply. Please see above “Special Requirements” section for SOQ instructions.

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Remote job,

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