PUBLIC INFORMATION INTERN JOB DESCRIPTION

Fairfax County Department of Community and Recreation Services

TITLE: PUBLIC INFORMATION INTERN

DEFINITION: Under general supervision, the person in this position will be writing and editing educational and public relations material for the media and general use. Projects will include researching and writing feature articles for placement in local newspapers; developing press kits, fact sheets, and brochures; preparing copy for an intra- and internet website; and proofreading and copy editing. Photography skills are helpful, but not necessary. Special outreach to diverse communities will underlie all projects.

TYPICAL TASKS:

• · Interviews agency participants and staff to identify interesting stories or situations that can be used to publicize the agency’s programs and services.
• · Edits and proofreads materials for agency publications.
• · Writes pitch letters to the media.
• · Creates content for agency website.
• · Meets with local media along with the Public Information Officer to pitch story ideas.
• · Recommends and/or takes photographs to support publicity and story ideas.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• · Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• · Basic knowledge of journalism, mass communication, marketing and public relations principles.
• · Solid grasp of the English language.
• · Good Interpersonal skills which include the ability to establish a significant level of trust.
• · Some experience with diplomacy.
• · Good working knowledge of personal computers and related software including MS Word, Access, Excel, and Outlook

STANDARDS:

• · Must be an undergraduate or graduate student with significant coursework in writing nonfiction, editing, journalism, public relations, marketing, or any combination.
• · Must be a part of an intern program with an accredited university or college working under the direction of a faculty advisor.

JOB PREFERENCES (not required):

• · Skilled in Photography
• · Writing for Internet
• · Skilled in Proofreading and copy editing
• · Talented nonfiction and technical writer