Public Information Specialist Posting Begin Date: 2025/07/23 Posting End Date: 2025/08/06 Category: Communications Sub Category: Public Relations Work Type: Full Time Location: Boise, ID, United States Minimum Salary: 21.25 Maximum Salary: 25.00 Pay Rate Type: Hourly Description NOTE: This position is exempt from classified state service and the rules of the Division of Human Resources and the Idaho Personnel Commission. NOTE: All applicants must apply by 4:59 PM MST on the closing date. Are you passionate about Idaho's great outdoors and want to help others enjoy it too? The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) is seeking aPublic Information Specialistto educate, connect, and grow public knowledge and participation in statewide recreation programs and state park activities. This position focuses on planning and producing engaging content that inspires Idahoans and visitors to take part in year-round programs, activities, and overnight stays in state parks. You’ll participate in the creation and management of department news releases, social media content, and event calendars. From crafting press materials and pitching stories, to coordinating mascot appearances and assisting in digital asset management, this role is at the heart of IDPR’s communication efforts. The successful candidate will thrive in public outreach and education, have proven social media skills, and enjoy both the creative and administrative sides of communications work, like managing purchases and invoices, planning travel, and generating weekly analytics reports. Reporting to the Senior Public Information Officer, this position plays a key role in modernizing IDPR’s outreach strategies while supporting a cohesive, agency-wide voice and message. Learn more about the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation here: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov EXAMPLE OF DUTIES Media and Public Outreach + Write and distribute press releases, newsletter articles, and website content. + Translate written content into engaging social media posts and campaign messaging. + Maintain and grow the news release and media distribution list. + Serve as spokesperson as needed and assist in facilitating public meetings and hearings. + Research and pitch stories to media outlets to increase public awareness and engagement. + Support interpretive and recreational education campaigns (e.g., avalanche safety, OHV and boating programs). Content Creation & Digital Communications + Maintain a department-wide content calendar integrating events, campaigns, and park news. + Collaborate with program and park staff to gather and verify news release content. + Support website updates including public notices, meeting agendas, event pages, and alerts. + Create visual content (graphics, photo/video) using tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and others. + Organize and manage a digital asset library (photos, videos, graphics). + Assist with communications related to program launches and seasonal updates. + Creating informational and educational materials, such as newsletters, brochures and other publications for print and online + Working with consultants and vendors, such as printers, graphic artists and photographers, and also arranging for advertising to promote IDPR. Mascot & Community Engagement + Manage IDPR’s mascot, Scout, including scheduling, social media content, and event support. + Promote and manage public outreach related to interpretive programs and seasonal activities. + Collect stories, photos, and videos from the field that highlight park events and program impact. + Represent IDPR at community events to engage the public and promote outdoor recreation. Administrative Support + Coordinate and track purchases, invoices, and travel related to communications events and initiatives. + Support branded merchandise orders for outreach and education efforts. + Compile reports including media monitoring, social media analytics, and project updates. + Use SharePoint and other platforms for document collaboration and communication resource management. + Prepare public presentations or materials for agency leadership. Additional Requirements + Based in Boise, with occasional in-state travel to parks and events. + Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and work outdoors when needed. + Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a background check. + Evening and weekend hours may be required during key outreach events. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: + Traditional and digital media operations (print, radio, TV, social media). + Content production techniques including photography, video, and graphic design. + Writing styles for various audiences and platforms. Experience with: + Writing and editing public-facing content for both digital and print formats. + Creating educational or promotional materials (brochures, newsletters, social posts). + Managing social media and website content. + Interacting with media and responding to public inquiries. + Coordinating public events and working with outside vendors (e.g., printers, photographers). + Speaking publicly or serving in a public-facing communication role. + Preparing public presentations for agency leadership. Preferred Qualifications + Bachelors degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field, or related experience. + Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, SharePoint, and scheduling/analytics tools. + Familiarity with state government communications or recreational programs. + Video editing and basic photography skills. DO WHAT YOU LOVE, LOVE WHAT YOU DO WHY IDPR? We are innovators in outdoor recreation, committed to excellent service and resource stewardship. We foster experiences that renew the human spirit and promote community vitality. Our mission is to improve the quality of life in Idaho through outdoor recreation and resource stewardship. IDPR manages 30 state parks, trails and attractions throughout every region of Idaho and the registration programs for boats, snowmobiles and other off-highway vehicles (OHV). Money from these registration programs goes back to users to develop and maintain trails, facilities and programs. IDPR also provides free education courses for boaters and OHV operators. To learn more about Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation please visit : https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/ BENEFITS: We offer a competitive benefits package which includes excellent medical, dental and vision insurance. There is generous vacation and sick leave accrual that begins as soon as you start. There are ten paid holidays in a year; participation in one of the Nation's best state retirement systems; multiple saving plans and optional 401K; life insurance; wellness programs; ongoing training opportunities and more. For additional information related to benefits and/or State programs, please visit: https://dhr.idaho.gov/information-for-state-employees/. EEO/ADA/Veteran: The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws. The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email[email protected]. Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.