Public Relations Specialist; Bureau Of Economic Development – Shakman Exempt

Overview

Cook County Bureau of Economic Development is seeking an experienced Public Relations Specialist, responsible for managing internal and external communications for the bureau/department, including public information, media relations, and interdepartmental messaging. The role collaborates with the communications team to draft press releases, talking points, and remarks; plan press conferences; and approve official statements. Additional duties include preparing newsletters, resolutions, congratulatory letters, and proclamations, as well as coordinating with other County bureaus and the Office of the President on communication matters.

The position may serve as a communications advisor or spokesperson and requires the ability to represent the bureau/department in a professional and accurate manner.

Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois' population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region. These services range from health care to urban planning.

Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer.

Attention Applicants: Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.

In addition to providing employees with a challenging, rewarding environment for career and personal growth, we are proud to also offer some of the best benefits in the public sphere, including:

• Top Tier Medical Benefits:
  Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Pension Plan
• Financial Support Programs and Resources:
  Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts - Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
• Health/Wellness Perks:
  Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

SALARY RANGE: $90,015 - $99,410 / Yearly

• Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs
  • 2nd largest county in America
  • Larger than 27 states
• Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
  • Nearly 80% unionized workforce
  • 15 unions represented
  • 63 separate collective bargaining agreements
• Highway - Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.
• Land - Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land and collects and distributes tax funds as a service for local government taxing bodies.
• Safety - Cook County provides vital services to local government, from conducting elections in suburban areas to offering 911 services in unincorporated areas and municipalities.

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, one of the most formidable business districts in the world, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of shopping. In addition, Chicago is serviced by multiple bus and train lines for public transportation from the suburbs to the city, taxis are plentiful, public parking garages for motorists, and bicycle share rentals and local bike lanes for bicyclists.

Responsible for overseeing internal and external communications, including information to the public, other county bureaus/departments, and the press or media-related information on bureau/department matters. Collaborate with teammates to manage communication efforts, ensuring accurate and supportive press coverage of bureau/department activities. Work with the communications team to draft press releases, remarks, envision and develop press conferences, talking points, media pitches, approve quotes or statements on behalf of the bureau/department and other duties as assigned.

Assist in drafting various communications including newsletters, resolutions, congratulatory letters, press releases or proclamations as directed. Collaborate with other bureaus/departments and Office of the President regarding communication matters related to Cook County Government operations. Serve as a communications representative or advisor when required to by other bureaus/departments. May speak on behalf of the bureau/department head, as necessary.

• Represent the bureau/department head and their administration before the media; coordinate media access to the President as authorized by the President's communications team.
• Participate…