Public Affairs Specialist – Public Works & Utilities Department Position Available In St. Johns, Florida

Public Affairs Specialist – Public Works & Utilities Department 4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars Saint Augustine, FL 32084 The Public Affairs Specialist reports to the Public Affairs Manager and is responsible for supporting communication efforts within the Public Works and Utilities departments. This includes creating and coordinating strategic communication plans and managing public communications related to Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs), construction impacts, closures, and other project updates. The Specialist will serve as a key liaison, ensuring the public receives timely, clear, and accurate information—especially regarding traffic impacts and project milestones. The ideal candidate will be proactive, collaborative, and skilled in content creation across multiple platforms, with a strong focus on engagement and clarity. A positive attitude and adaptability to shifting project needs and time-sensitive requests are essential.

Examples of Duties:

Maintain a daily presence in Public Works and Utilities through structured office hours and regular meetings with leadership (directors, assistant directors, and project managers). This includes working on-site at Public Works and/or Utilities Headquarters Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The role may also require attendance at after-hours events, project sites on weekends, and staffing at the Emergency Operations Center or related field roles as needed. Develop and produce written, visual, and video content to communicate Public Works and Utilities projects, including CIPs, closures, traffic impacts, and other updates. Create high-quality graphics and multimedia materials, including social media posts and infographics, to inform and engage the public. Craft clear, engaging messaging for diverse audiences, including residents, businesses, and community organizations. Monitor Public Works and Utilities social media content to ensure timeliness, accuracy, and alignment with the county’s communication strategy. Work closely with department staff to gather project updates and technical information for public dissemination. Coordinate with Public Affairs colleagues, county leadership, and external partners to ensure consistent messaging. Prepare and distribute press releases, media alerts, and other public communications. Serve as a spokesperson on Public Works and Utilities topics as requested. Respond to public and media inquiries related to Public Works and Utilities projects. Coordinate the planning and implementation of outreach events such as public meetings, groundbreakings, and ribbon-cuttings, as well as broader communications campaigns. Ensure all content complies with county branding and messaging guidelines. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates for the Public Affairs Specialist position are encouraged to apply if they meet the following minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related course of study to the occupational field. Minimum of two (2) years experience in a journalism, marketing, public relations, mass communications, television production, or closely related field. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license and any other endorsements necessary to legally operate vehicles used while assigned to this position. Must possess good interpersonal and communication skills to serve others. Must be able to comprehend, speak and write the English language. Must be able to operate a computer. Preferred Experience Experience creating written content for press releases, social media, and newsletters. Proficiency in graphic design tools such as Canva for social media posts, flyers, and digital content. Strong AP Style writing, editing, and proofreading skills with excellent attention to detail. Ability to adapt messaging for various platforms, audiences, and communication goals. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. A proactive, team-oriented attitude with a strong desire to inform and engage the public. Eagerness to collaborate with Public Works and Utilities staff to gather project information. Knowledge of Public Works and Utilities projects or government operations. Familiarity with video production tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Reels. Experience using social media creation, coordination, and analytics platforms (e.g., Sprout Social). Prior experience in a local government or public sector communications role.

NOTE TO APPLICANTS

Candidates may apply through St.

Johns County’s Online Application System:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sjcfl Applications must be submitted through St. Johns County’s Online Application System in order to be considered. Paper documents, emailed resumes or otherwise are not accepted in lieu of an application. All applications must be submitted before the advertised closing date. St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is a drug free workplace and equal opportunity employer. All employment actions are taken without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, handicap, disability, marital status, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$54,863.14 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Vision insurance

Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift Monday to Friday Weekends as needed

Work Location:

In person