COMMS Writer and Content Reviewer (PSC)

Position Overview

The overall purpose of the Writer and Content Reviewer will be to assist in the efforts to disseminate health-related information and initiatives to the general public and internal staff, build and maintain a positive public image for the agency, engage with the public, internal and key stakeholders, and ensure clear and timely communication of public health initiatives, emergencies, and guidelines. This role plays a vital part in promoting health awareness, building public trust, and advancing the agency's public health.  

The contractor will work with partners in developing and reviewing written content to effectively communicate public health information, messaging, events and initiatives to various stakeholders and the general public through multiple methods, languages, and media to a variety of audiences. This contractor will also drive efforts to improve the department's communications operations, dissemination and analysis of public health data, as well as establish and maintain ability to transmit and receive communications to and from the public and internal stakeholders on a 24/7 basis.

Job Responsibilities

1.  Create engaging content to promote and support agency activities, impacts, and outcomes, including public health programming, communication and strategic planning campaigns and workforce development programs such as recruitment, retention, and training.

2.  Create, review and manage communication materials, such as newsletters, brochures, social media messages, webpages, emails, and more, to educate stakeholders and promote public health initiatives and agency services, including vaccination drives, healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness about health risks.

3.  Write and edit public health related articles, reports, and presentations for events and publications.

4.  Develop content highlighting IDPH's efforts to modernize public health systems and improve public health data systems and surveillance through agency-wide and PHIG initiatives.

5. Manage agency related communications via websites, social media, newsletters, print media, marketing campaigns.

6.  Collaborate with partners and team members to develop communication strategies to keep stakeholders informed and engaged.

7.  Identify innovative communication strategies to increase external awareness of agency programs and events.

8.  Communicate with government agencies, healthcare providers, partner organizations, and other stakeholders to create and review content relevant to public health initiatives.

9.  Develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of communication plans aligned with agency goals and objectives.

10.  Facilitate communication within the agency to ensure all staff members are aligned with the agency's messaging and objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college in Communications, Marketing, Public Administration, Public Relations, or a related field.
2. 3-5 years of experience implementing a communication strategy that includes media outreach and social media content creation.
3. 4+ years of experience in communications.
4. 4+ years of experience creating video communications from concept, filming through post-productions, delivery, and promotion.
5. 3+ years developing, implementing, and executing successful public relation campaigns.
6. Excellent organizations skills.
7. Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, press releases, and communication materials.
2. Proficiency in building and maintaining relationships with journalists and media outlets, as well as handling media inquiries and interviews.
3. The ability to activate crisis communication plans and communicate effectively during health emergencies and crises.
4. A solid understanding of public health principles, to accurately convey health information to the public.
5. Familiarity with social media platforms and strategies for using them to disseminate health information, engage the public, and address concerns.
6. Skills in engaging with diverse communities, understanding their needs, and building partnerships with local organizations and leaders.
7. Experience in planning and executing health-related events, workshops, and public awareness campaigns.
8. Sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to tailor messages and initiatives to diverse populations.
9. Effective problem-solving skills to address public concerns, manage crises, and find creative solutions to communication challenges.
10. Collaborative skills to work with colleagues, other agencies, and stakeholders to achieve common public health goals.
11. Understanding of ethical considerations and legal regulations related to public health communication and patient confidentiality.
12. Organizational skills to manage multiple projects, budgets, and deadlines effectively.