Job Description

Position Description

The Harris County Sheriff\'s Office (HCSO) Media Services is seeking a skilled and motivated Media Specialist to join our dynamic team. The Media Specialist will play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining effective communication strategies by creating compelling content, writing newsletters, and disseminating information to both HCSO employees and the wider community. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to public safety efforts through consistent impactful and engaging communication.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop, write, and edit newsletters that provide timely and relevant information to HCSO employees and the community. Craft engaging narratives, stories, and updates that convey the mission, values, and achievements of the Harris County Sheriff\'s Office
• Collaborate with various departments within HCSO to gather information, news, and updates. Translate complex law enforcement topics into clear and accessible content suitable for diverse audiences
• Assist in the development and execution of communication strategies that align with HCSO\'s goals and objectives. Ensure consistency in messaging and branding across all communication platforms
• Work closely with the Media Services team to provide accurate and timely responses to media inquiries. Assist in preparing press releases, statements, and other materials for media distribution
• Engage with the community through social media, newsletters, and other platforms to foster positive relationships and enhance public understanding of HCSO\'s initiatives and activities
• Review and edit written materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to established guidelines. Proofread content for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors
• Collaborate with the team during crises to help draft communication materials and ensure consistent and accurate messaging
• Monitor the effectiveness of communication efforts by tracking engagement metrics, feedback, and other relevant indicators. Provide insights and recommendations for continuous improvement
• Remain informed about trends, best practices, and developments in the field of communication and law enforcement to ensure the relevancy and innovation of HCSO\'s communication strategies
• Other duties as assigned

This is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign, or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any

Requirements

• Bachelor\'s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
• Three years of proven experience in creating engaging and informative content for newsletters, publications, or other communication materials

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with attention to detail
• Strong understanding of communication principles and strategies, particularly in a law enforcement or public safety context
• Proficiency in using digital communication tools, including social media platforms, email marketing software, and content management systems
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively
• Familiarity with graphic design and multimedia content creation

Preferences

• Bilingual in any language

General Information

Work Environment
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses mobile equipment, lighting kits, tripods, and standard office equipment, such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and digital scanners.

Physical Demands
This role may be physical and sedentary, however, the ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds is necessary to lift equipment and/or boxes of files, devices, etc.

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Hours may vary based on the business needs of the department.

To Apply:

• Complete the online job application incomplete applications will delay the application process

Note:

• Submission of an application by an employee neither implies nor ensures the transfer will be granted
• Transfers will be decided based on the needs and the best interest of the HCSO
• Applicant submission of Job Application does not guarantee an interview

Equal Opportunity Statement
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

BENEFITS

Harris County offers a competitive benefits program, including comprehensive group health and related benefits plan as well as a defined benefit retirement plan.

The following list of benefits is offered only to employees in regular (full-time) positions:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service. Accrual rates increase based on years of service.
• 10 county holidays plus one (1) floating holiday
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Healthcare Reimbursement Account
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are also available to regular (full-time) employment and may be available to part-time employees:

• Retirement pension (TCDRS)

• Flexible schedules (varies by department)

• Transportation Assistance (Metro RideSponsor Program)

In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, Group Health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County\'s behalf as needed.

For plan details, visit the Harris County benefits website:

Harris County