Recreation Aide

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in advertising, fine arts, graphic design, journalism, public relations, telecommunications, or a related field and two years of related experience which included the use of computer desktop publishing software; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Successful completion of a criminal history background investigation is required prior to employment.

This is responsible technical and supervisory work that involves collaborating with employees throughout the County and the community in preparing printed and electronic material, including press releases, presentations, newsletters, brochures, public service announcements, speeches, and exhibits. The employee assigned to this classification assists the Communications Coordinator with media relations in his absence; supervises publications staff; and is involved in journalistic and promotional writing, desktop publishing, presentation preparation, training employees on best management practices, and working with printers and other agencies.

The employee also coordinates the graphics identity of the County under the general direction of the Communications Coordinator (PIO). Work is performed under the direction of a higher‑level supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and observations of results obtained.

• Supervises and coordinates the activities of subordinate supervisors and employees, including determining work procedures and schedules; issuing instructions and assigning duties; reviewing work; recommending personnel actions; conducting performance reviews; and conducting departmental training and orientation.

• Assists the Communications Coordinator with media relations in his absence.

• Writes press releases and copy for newsletters, brochures, and multi‑media material.

• Designs, composes, and illustrates camera‑ready and computer‑generated publicity materials using desktop publishing software.

• Trains County staff on best management practices in journalistic writing, desktop publishing, and graphics identity.

• Performs other public relations functions, including photography, event planning, and development of public awareness campaigns.

• Studies illustrations and photographs to plan the presentation of material, product, or service; determines size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy; selects style and size of type; and arranges layout based upon available space and aesthetic design concepts.

• Coordinates the graphics image of county government by gathering staff recommendations, developing recommendations for best use practices, and helping implement the recommendations.

• Draws sample finished layouts and presents samples to the Communications Coordinator (PIO) or customer for approval, as appropriate.

• Keys information into computer equipment to create layouts for customer or supervisor.

• Coordinates contracts for volume purchases of printing and design services provided by vendors.

• Performs related work as may be necessary.

• Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of journalistic writing, presentation preparation, desktop publishing, and graphic design.

• Knowledge of print production, computer operation, and the use of desktop publishing and graphic design software programs.

• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including presentations and the preparation of written reports and memoranda.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, employees, supervisors, other government agencies, and the general public.

• Ability to provide advice regarding media relations, written communications, graphic design, and desktop publishing.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that…